العمرة
The "lesser pilgrimage" that can be performed at any time of the year. It consists of Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'i, and Halq/Taqsir. It cleanses the soul and brings one closer to the Creator.
الحج
The "major pilgrimage" and the 5th pillar of Islam. It takes place during specific days of Dhul-Hijjah and includes rites at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
Entering the sacred state of purity. Men wear two white sheets; women wear modest dress. The intention (Niyyah) is made at the Meeqat.
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
Circumambulating the Kaaba 7 times counter-clockwise, starting from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). It symbolizes the unity of believers.
Walking 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail (AS).
Shaving the head (Halq) or trimming the hair (Taqsir). This marks the exit from the state of Ihram for Umrah.
Moving to the tent city of Mina. Pilgrims spend the day and night here in prayer and contemplation, preparing for Arafat.
The pinnacle of Hajj. Standing in prayer and supplication from noon until sunset. "Hajj is Arafah."
Spending the night under the open sky and collecting pebbles for the stoning ritual.
Stoning the Jamarat (Rami), sacrificing an animal (Qurbani), and Halq. Then proceeding to Makkah for Tawaf al-Ifadah.