A Muslim expresses a sincere desire to perform ‘Umrah, but currently works in a field related to finance and the cannabis industries, which often include impermissible elements under Islamic law. The work supports two families, and leaving it would create financial hardship. Given these circumstances, is it appropriate to perform ‘Umrah? What advice can help ensure sincerity and that the journey is pleasing to Allah ﷻ?

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A Muslim expresses a sincere desire to perform ‘Umrah, but currently works in a field related to finance and the cannabis industries, which often include impermissible elements under Islamic law. The work supports two families, and leaving it would create financial hardship. Given these circumstances, is it appropriate to perform ‘Umrah? What advice can help ensure sincerity and that the journey is pleasing to Allah ﷻ?

It is a sign of Iman and sincerity that a believer desires to make ‘Umrah and asks how to approach it in a way that is pleasing to Allah, especially when their current circumstances involve religiously sensitive income. May Allah reward the questioner for this honesty and yearning for nearness to Him.

1. The Status of ‘Umrah
‘Umrah is a noble act of worship, and while not obligatory like Hajj, it is highly encouraged. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The performance of ‘Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the previous one.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1773; Sahih Muslim, 1349)

Thus, performing ‘Umrah is a form of spiritual purification, and a person who seeks it sincerely draws closer to Allah — even while still working toward improving their religious state.

2. The Issue of One’s Source of Income
The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Indeed, Allah is pure and accepts only that which is pure…”
(Sahih Muslim, 1015)

Islam emphasizes earning halal (lawful) income, and avoiding work that involves riba (usury), intoxicants, gambling, or other haram sources. The cannabis industry is particularly sensitive, as its permissibility depends on local laws and how the substance is used (i.e., medical vs. recreational, legal vs. illicit, direct handling vs. indirect support).

If a person works in a field that includes clear unlawful elements, and their income is primarily sourced from that work, the scholars have differed on whether this affects the validity or reward of acts like Hajj or ‘Umrah.

However, the majority opinion is as follows:

The ‘Umrah itself remains valid if the rituals are performed correctly.

But the reward may be reduced or spiritually compromised if the income used is clearly haram, unless sincere repentance accompanies it.

Imam al-Nawawi (rahimahullah) notes in Sharh Sahih Muslim that the acceptance of worship is ultimately with Allah, but that earning halal sustenance is a spiritual condition for higher levels of acceptance.

3. Spiritual Guidance in This Situation
Given your sincere desire and the financial reality of supporting two families, the following path is advised:

Yes, you may perform ‘Umrah, even in your current job, with the intention of seeking Allah’s closeness, forgiveness, and a path to lawful income.

Use the ‘Umrah as a spiritual turning point: ask Allah in the sacred places to open the door to a halal alternative, to replace what you may leave for His sake with something better.

If the job is in a mixed field (part permissible, part doubtful), then your intention and effort to move away from the impermissible will, insha’Allah, bring barakah and reward — even if you are not yet able to leave it fully.

Avoid using income directly from haram transactions, if possible — for example, using savings from a halal portion, or combining it with gifts, loans, or support from family or friends.

4. Conclusion
You may perform ‘Umrah, insha’Allah, and it will be valid, even in your current employment situation. The key is to accompany the journey with repentance, sincerity, and a commitment to seek halal alternatives. Allah ﷻ is Most Merciful, and He responds to those who strive toward Him, even from difficult starting points.

“And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our paths. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”
(Surah al-‘Ankabūt, 29:69)

Action Plan:

Go with the intention to purify your heart, make du‘ā for lawful sustenance, and renew your commitment to Allah.

Begin actively searching for permissible employment, trusting that Allah will provide.

Continue to fulfill your responsibilities to your family with sincerity, and trust that Allah sees your struggle.

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