Damm – What Is It In Umrah & Hajj? Meaning, Rules & How to Pay

The journeys of Umrah and Hajj are full of blessings, but these journeys also come with rules that require careful adherence.

These rules have a strong connection with the concept of Damm, and it revolves around pilgrims finding themselves in circumstances where certain obligations are missed or violated.

In that case, the pilgrims are required to perform a compensatory act of worship, which is referred to as Damm. 

If you are an aspiring pilgrim or someone who is curious to find out about the respective concept of Damm or Fidyah, this guide is for you.

It explores the meaning of Damm or Fidyah, their rules, scenarios when they become obligatory, and finally, how you can fulfil them properly.

What Is Damm in Islam?

Starting with the basics, in Islamic jurisprudence, Damm refers to a mandatory sacrifice or compensation required when a pilgrim fails to fulfil mandatory rituals during Hajj or Umrah.

The term is derived from an Arabic word that means “blood”, and it involves the sacrifice of an animal, such as a goat or sheep. 

This sacrifice takes place within the Haram area of Makkah.

Now, this is one type of compensatory act. Apart from sacrificing animals, there are a few other compensations too.

These alternative compensations are known as Fidyah.

A couple of examples of Fidyah include feeding the poor and fasting.

Thus, Fidyah, similar to Damm, also allows a person to make up for their shortcomings and keep their pilgrimage valid.

This leads us to think whether Damm and Fidyah are the same. 

Let’s find out.

Are Damm and Fidyah the Same? Key Differences Explained

As per the above discussion, it is important to realise that people often use these terms, Damm and Fidyah, in place of each other, thinking they both have the same meaning; however, these terms have a slight difference.

So, what makes these terms different? 

The answer lies in noticing how severe a violation is made by a pilgrim.

Particularly, Damm involves the sacrifice of an animal and is generally required for major violations such as skipping a ritual or breaking a condition of Ihram.

However, Fidyah requires you to feed the poor or fast. This actually applies to lesser violations like delaying a ritual or making minor mistakes.

Thus, both of these terms act as compensations, but when you hear the term “requires Damm” it means a more serious infraction during Hajj or Umrah.

When Is Damm Required During Umrah or Hajj?

Let’s dive deep. Damm becomes obligatory under several scenarios:

If you want to stay informed and spiritually prepared, our comprehensive guide of Hajj outlines specific infractions and their consequences.

You can download its PDF version by clicking here.

Common Mistakes That Require Damm

Many pilgrims commit errors during Hajj or Umrah because of a lack of awareness or even fatigue.

These mistakes, even if they are made unintentionally, impact the validity of the pilgrimage and require Damm as compensation.

Below are some prevalent mistakes that require Damm. Let’s understand each one.

Applying Perfume or Scent

It’s forbidden to use fragrant products while wearing Ihram.

Therefore, in case you use it mindlessly, you must offer Damm or, in some cases, a Fidya.

Wearing Stitched Clothing in Ihram

For men, wearing stitched garments like t-shirts, trousers, pants, or even underwear is not allowed.

Thus, wearing any of these is a violation, and you must expiate it through Damm. 

Cutting Hair or Nails During Ihram

This is a common mistake. Pilgrims, unknowingly, cut nails or hair while wearing Ihram.

It usually happens during Hajj Madinah stays that are extended.

So, remember, even if a single hair is intentionally cut, you have to compensate.

Skipping Tawaf or Sa’i Obligations

Rituals are the pillars of Umrah and Hajj.

Without performing them, your Umrah or Hajj is considered incomplete.

So, if you skip them or perform them incorrectly, Damm is required to keep the pilgrimage valid.

Intimate Contact or Intercourse

Intimacy during Ihram is a serious breach of rules, and it simply invalidates the pilgrimage entirely.

Therefore, it’s a major violation, and, in such a case, Damm is compulsory.

Ihram Violations That Lead to Damm

Other common violations include:

Each of these mentioned acts, though sometimes done unintentionally, requires expiation if they occur within the state of Ihram and within the sacred boundaries of Makkah.

How to Give Damm for Umrah or Hajj?

Giving Damm during Umrah or Hajj involves more than simply offering a sacrifice.

It requires you to understand the process properly, including the selection of a valid animal and ensuring the act is completed within the allocated area of Makkah.

So, no matter whether you choose to handle it personally or rely on authorised services, it’s important to follow the right steps to make sure your compensation is spiritually valid and accepted.

Choosing the Right Animal

A valid Damm sacrifice includes either a healthy goat or a sheep.

Whichever animal is chosen, it must meet Islamic criteria and be free from defects.

Once you’re done with selection, the sacrifice must occur within the Haram boundaries of Makkah.

Where to Pay Damm in Makkah

For this, there are numerous authorised services in Makkah that assist pilgrims in fulfilling Damm.

These Qurbani services make sure that your animal is sacrificed correctly and the meat is distributed to the needy.

Online Options to Pay Damm (Fidyah)

Nowadays, many reliable platforms allow you to book your Damm online.

The good thing about these reputable services and Fidyah providers is that they provide quick confirmation, affordable prices, and secure payments.

Verifying the Sacrifice and Receiving Proof

Once you book the Damm, request visual or written confirmation.

Many qurbani services include an authentication code or a WhatsApp image of your sacrificed animal as a guide to legitimacy.

How Much Is Damm or Fidyah for Umrah?

The cost of Damm or Fidyah depends on the method of compensation and local market prices in Makkah.

Particularly, sacrificing an animal normally ranges from $200 to $250.

However, pilgrims should also understand alternative options (Fidyah) and when they apply.

Fidyah Per Day (If Not Sacrificing an Animal)

For a person, if animal sacrifice is unaffordable, fidya becomes an option.

This usually involves feeding food fidya to six poor people or fasting for three days.

What If You Can’t Afford the Damm Amount?

When financially constrained, pilgrims are encouraged to fast or offer fidya through acts such as feeding the poor.

In extreme cases, if you’re unsure, religious scholars are there to guide you on the basis of your intent and circumstances.

Rules about Meat Distribution After Damm

There are certain Islamic guidelines that mention how the meat should be distributed once the Damm sacrifice is completed.

These rules are meant to strengthen the fundamentals of charity, community support, and respect for the holy act of compensation during Hajj and Umrah.

Let’s look at a few questions that clarify the process of meat distribution.

Can You Eat From the Damm Animal?

Yes, pilgrims are allowed to eat from the Damm sacrifice, but the majority should go to the poor.

This reinforces the spirit of charity during Hajj and Umrah.

Thus, pilgrims should not exceed one-third of the total.

Who Receives the Meat?

The meat from the Damm sacrifice must be distributed to the poor and needy within the boundaries of the Haram in Makkah.

Well, the amount? It’s two-thirds.

Apart from these, the meat must not be sold, bartered, or thrown away.

Moreover, the meat should be distributed promptly after the sacrifice.

FAQs

Conclusion: Damm

Understanding the rules around Damm and Fidyah helps ensure your Umrah or Hajj is spiritually complete.

Therefore, from the selection of the right services and animals to the navigation of the online bookings, every detail is important.

So, it’s all about staying informed, planning wisely, and fulfilling this holy duty with us.