Email:
Islamabad
Umrah consists of numerous rituals that are all highly significant for complete spiritual renewal and the ultimate transformation and rewards that this pilgrimage promises. One of the primary rituals is Halq or Taqsir. This is the final ritual of the pilgrimage and marks the completion of this highly rewarding journey. Anyone going for a pilgrimage soon might be wondering about Halq vs Taqsir in Umrah. Therefore, we have a comprehensive guide to this final ritual to help first-time pilgrims who are planning to perform an Umrah soon.
Halq or Taqsir is the ritual that enables the pilgrims to exit the state of Ihram. With this ritual, your Umrah is complete. It involves shaving or trimming hair, which is also symbolic of a physical transformation promised alongside the spiritual transformation through an Umrah. If you have already started looking for an Umrah package 2026 from the UK, it is time you also go through a complete guide to shaving or trimming according to Sunnah to clarify this ritual.
Let’s start by learning what Halq and Taqsir are. Every pilgrim must perform Halwq or Taqsir after performing Sa’i at Safa and Marwah. This is the last ritual of Umrah and lifts the rules and restrictions of Ihram. Halq is shaving the head, while Taqsir is trimming hair all over the head to equal lengths. Both of these acts symbolise humility, obedience, spiritual renewal, and transformation. Now let’s discuss both Halq and Taqsir in detail below in the light of Sunnah.
Halq means completely shaving the head. It is highly recommended for men and is impermissible for women. It is believed that Halq is more virtuous than hair trimming because it requires greater patience and dedication.
Also, keep in mind that the following people must perform Halq.
Men performing Umrah
First-time pilgrims
Those not planning another Umrah soon
As mentioned earlier, Taqsir means trimming of hair to equal lengths. It might not be as virtuous as Halq, but it is sufficient to complete your Umrah. It is permissible for both men and women. Men must trim hair from all parts of their head, not just one side. And for women, they must cut a fingertip’s length from the end of their hair.
There is a Hadith of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that goes as follows:
“O Allah, forgive those who shave their heads.”
The Companions asked, “And those who trim their hair?”
He (SAW) repeated it three times for those who shave, then said once for those who trim.
(Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
This Hadith highlights the great virtue of performing Halq and increases the rewards for doing so. However, there are some things that you must keep in mind.
For men, Halq is better and closer to Sunnah.
For women, only Taqsir is allowed.
For men planning another Umrah soon, Taqsir may be preferred to allow hair regrowth.
There are some common mistakes that you must avoid while performing Halq or Taqsir as the final ritual of your Umrah.
Trimming only one side of the head
Cutting too little hair
Women shaving instead of trimming
Performing Halq or Taqsir before completing Sa’i
If you have already started looking for an Umrah package from Manchester, avoid these common mistakes during your spiritual retreat. This will help you perform your Umrah ritual perfectly, gaining the endless rewards and blessings the pilgrimage promises.
Every ritual of Umrah has a spiritual wisdom behind it. Therefore, we cannot say that Halq or Taqsir is merely the shaving or trimming of hair; it symbolises many things. And it is very important to reflect on the ritual's symbolic meanings as you perform it. The spiritual wisdom behind shaving or trimming hair as the final ritual of the Umrah is as follows;
Humility before Allah
Letting go of pride and vanity
A spiritual rebirth and renewal
Health and hygiene are not to be compromised as you perform Halq. You will easily find numerous reliable barbers near Masjid al-Haram who serve pilgrims. But there are still some things you must keep in mind. Here are some practical tips for Halq to help you have a safe experience.
Choose clean and licensed barbers.
Avoid rush hours after prayers.
Use antiseptic or aftershave.
If you have scalp conditions, consult a doctor beforehand
This is one of the most commonly asked questions. Pilgrims going for Umrah soon are confused about whether they can perform this ritual themselves or must go to a Barber. Here is what you need to know.
Halq is usually performed by a barber for safety and cleanliness.
Taqsir may be done personally, provided hair is cut evenly from all sides.
Most pilgrims prefer going to licensed barbers for both Halq and Taqsir because it is much more convenient and safer.
The final ritual of Umrah, Halq or Taqsir, is equally important as any other ritual. Many people think that it is not as significant as entering the state of Ihram or performing Tawaf. But they are mistaken. It is important to perform this ritual to complete your pilgrimage and to exit the state of Ihram. So, if you have contacted an Islamic travel agency and are already planning your Umrah, it is time you also understand the significance and procedure of Halq or Tasir. Hopefully, this blog has guided you in the right direction with useful information.
Don’t miss our exclusive offers
