Every year, millions of Muslims from Dubai, the UK, the USA, and various other countries travel to Makkah to perform Umrah. Over 13.5 million people performed Umrah in 2023 alone, highlighting the significance of this pilgrimage in the Muslim world.
Understanding the importance of Tawaf in Umrah and the significance of Sa’i is necessary to perform the pilgrimage correctly. These rituals are deeply rooted in Islamic history and symbolize devotion, struggle, and obedience to Allah.
This guide explains how to perform Tawaf and Sa’i while shedding light on their historical and spiritual importance.
What Is Meant By Tawaf?
Tawaf is the practice of circumambulating (moving around) the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. It is a physical and spiritual act of devotion to Allah. It is one of the essential rites of Umrah and Hajj, highlighting the centrality of faith in a believer’s life.
The Kaaba, known as the House of Allah, represents the unity of the Muslim Ummah, and Tawaf signifies the continuous worship of Allah. Pilgrims engage in this act with a purified heart, seeking forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
Historical Importance of Tawaf
The tradition of Tawaf dates back to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Prophet Ismail (AS), who Allah commanded to construct the Kaaba as a place of worship.
This act of obedience laid the foundation for a holy practice that has endured for thousands of years. Islamic history teaches that Tawaf was even performed by angels around Bait-ul-Ma’mur, a heavenly counterpart to the Kaaba.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) supported this tradition after the conquest of Makkah by cleansing the Kaaba of idols and restoring it as the monotheistic center of worship.
How To Perform Tawaf In Your Umrah Journey
Performing Tawaf is one of the most significant rites of Umrah. Tawaf involves walking seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba, starting and ending at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad).
The ritual signifies the nature of faith and devotion. Before beginning Tawaf, pilgrims must ensure that they are in a state of ritual purity (Wudu) and have a firm intention (Niyyah) to perform Tawaf sincerely for the sake of Allah. While verbalizing the intention is unnecessary, the heart must be dedicated to fulfilling this act of worship with sincerity.
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, it is recommended that you enter with humility and recite Talbiyah “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk,” affirming submission to Allah. The pilgrim must approach the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad) to begin Tawaf.
However, due to the large crowd, if touching the Black Stone is not feasible, one may simply raise the right hand towards it and say, “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
The pilgrim then starts moving in an anti-clockwise direction, ensuring that the Kaaba remains to their left throughout Tawaf. The first three rounds should be completed with Raml (a brisk pace) for men, whereas the remaining four laps should be done normally.
Upon completing the seven circuits, the pilgrim proceeds to Maqam Ibrahim, the sacred station of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). This is where the Prophet stood while building the Kaaba.
After this, the pilgrim should move to the Zamzam well, drink from its water, and make Dua. Finally, the Tawaf is complete after supplication and asking for Allah’s.
What Is Meant By Sa’i?
Sa’i is an important Umrah rite commemorating the struggle of Hajra (AS), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, which signifies her relentless search for water for her infant son, Prophet Ismail (AS).
This act is a reminder of faith, endurance, and complete trust in Allah.
Historical Significance of Sa’i
The origin of Sa’i dates back to when Prophet Ibrahim (AS), under Allah’s command, left Hajra (AS) and their infant son, Ismail (AS), in the barren desert of Makkah. Desperate for water, Hajra (AS) ran back and forth between Safa and Marwah seven times, hoping to find help. Her perseverance led to the miraculous appearance of Zamzam water, a provision from Allah that continues to flow.
The Sa’i ritual is not just a symbolic act but a testament to unwavering faith. When Hajra (AS) ran between Safa and Marwah, she exemplified human struggle and perseverance in distress.
Despite exhaustion and uncertainty, she never abandoned hope, demonstrating her profound trust in Allah. Eventually, Angel Jibreel (AS) descended and struck the ground, causing Zamzam water to spring forth, fulfilling Hajra’s (AS) prayers.
How To Perform Sa’i In Your Umrah Journey
Performing Sa’i correctly ensures a meaningful and spiritually rewarding experience. Before starting, the pilgrim must intend (Niyyah) to perform Sa’i for the sake of Allah, acknowledging that this act is a sign of obedience and faith.
The pilgrim begins Sa’i at Safa Hill, facing the Kaaba, and recites the prescribed supplication:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah…” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
Before proceeding, you should raise your hands in Dua and seek Allah’s guidance and blessings. The journey towards Marwah should be made reflectively, allowing time for personal supplications and Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
A significant part of Sa’i is the brisk walking in the green-lit area, followed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to symbolize Hajra’s (AS) urgency. Men are encouraged to increase their speed in this section, while women should continue at their normal pace. After reaching Marwah, the pilgrim turns around and returns to Safa, completing one circuit. This process is repeated seven times, with the final lap concluding at Marwah.
Upon completing the seventh round at Marwah, the pilgrim should pause for supplication, thanking Allah for His guidance and mercy. This marks the completion of Sa’i, bringing the pilgrim one step closer to completing Umrah.
Final Thoughts
Tawaf and Sa’i are more than just rituals; they are profound expressions of devotion, sacrifice, and spiritual growth. By adopting the history and significance of Tawaf and Sa’i, Muslims can deepen their connection with Allah and experience an Umrah that is both fulfilling and transformative.
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