Meaning and Procedure
Tawaf (Arabic: طواف) involves performing seven circuits around the Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction, starting and ending each circuit at the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone). The Arabic term “taafa” (طاف) means to circle or encircle, representing the act of circumambulation around the Kaaba, referred to as a “shawt” (شوط) per each completed round.
Virtues and Rewards
Engaging in Tawaf is highly meritorious. According to traditions, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ highlighted that various mercies descend upon the Kaaba, benefiting those performing Tawaf and prayer. One narration suggests significant spiritual rewards equating to freeing a slave, with every step taken erasing sins and elevating the pilgrim’s spiritual rank.
Theological Significance
Tawaf symbolizes the pilgrim’s worship and submission to Allah. Unique to Islamic rites, it doesn’t directly trace back to the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) unlike other rituals of Hajj and Umrah. The act mirrors the celestial ‘Tawaf’ done by angels around al-Bayt al-Ma’mur, the heavenly archetype of the Kaaba. This connection is mentioned in the Quran:
وَالطَّورِ وَكِتَـبٍ مُّسْطُورٍ فِى رَقّ مَّنْشُورٍ وَالْبَيْتِ الْمَعْمُورِ
[By the mount, and a book inscribed, on unfolded parchment, and the frequented House.]
Cosmic Reflection
Tawaf is likened to the orbits of celestial bodies, symbolizing universal order and harmony. This cosmic motion, from electrons to galaxies, reflects obedience to divine will, highlighting the unity and cohesion in creation, alluding to Quranic imagery:
وَهُوَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ اللَّيْلَ وَالنَّهَارَ وَالشَّمْسَ وَالْقَمَرَ كُلٌّ فِي فَلَكٍ يَسْبَحُونَ
[He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon, each in an orbit floating.]
Historical Context
Before Islam, Tawaf was practiced by the pre-Islamic Arab polytheists, often inappropriately clothed. Islam reformed these practices, emphasizing modesty and the sacredness of the rites, aligning them strictly with monotheistic worship.
Types of Tawaf
- Tawaf al-Qudum**: Performed by Hajj pilgrims upon arrival in Makkah.
- Tawaf al-Ziyarah/Ifadah**: Essential for completing the Hajj, performed after the Day of Sacrifice.
- Tawaf al-Wida**: The farewell Tawaf before leaving Makkah.
- Tawaf al-Umrah**: Part of the Umrah ritual.
- Tawaf al-Nafl**: Voluntary Tawaf, performable at any time.
- Raml: The Ritual of Energetic Walking in Tawaf
Raml is a distinctive practice during Tawaf where pilgrims walk briskly with lifted legs and a proud posture, imitating warriors. It’s performed during the first three circuits of the Tawaf, transitioning to a normal walking pace for the remaining four. This sunnah, derived from historical precedence during the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ Umrah in the 7th year of Hijri, aimed to counter the Meccan rumors of the Muslims’ frailty due to the Fever of Yathrib (Madinah).
Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas I:
“When Allah’s Messenger ﷺ and his companions came to Makkah, they were rumored to be weakened by the Fever of Yathrib. So, the Prophet ﷺ commanded his companions to perform Raml in the first three rounds of the Tawaf and to walk normally between the two corners [Hajar al-Aswad and Rukn al-Yamani].” This directive was given to display strength and vigor, countering the allegations of their frailty.
Practical Considerations of Raml
Due to the potential crowding, performing Raml might be challenging. Pilgrims should attempt to walk briskly, and if impeded by the crowd, look for openings to perform Raml appropriately. If you inadvertently forget to perform Raml in the initial circuit, you can observe it in the second and third circuits. It’s inadvisable to initiate Raml after the third circuit.
Requisites of Tawaf
Tawaf shares similarities with Salah regarding purity. Participants should have wudu and wear clean clothes. Like prayer, though talking is allowed during Tawaf, it’s recommended to engage in beneficial speech only.
Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas I:
“The Prophet ﷺ said, ‘Tawaf around the House is similar to Salah except that you may speak during it. So if one speaks, let him speak good.'”
If wudu is nullified during Tawaf, it should be renewed and the Tawaf resumed from the point of interruption. The requirements to cover awrah are stringent; men should ensure the area from navel to knees is covered, and women should maintain their usual modest attire, except for the face and hands.
The Physical Setting for Tawaf
Tawaf must occur within Masjid al-Haram, with the Kaaba on the left side throughout. The area known as Hijr Ismail and the Shadharwan (the raised base of the Kaaba) should not be crossed or touched during Tawaf. The intention for Tawaf should ideally be made at the starting point near Hajar al-Aswad and involves completing seven continuous circuits.
Engaging in Raml during Tawaf is not obligatory but a sunnah that enhances the spiritual and physical enactment of the pilgrimage, vividly linking present practices to the historical and valorous past of the early Muslims. If performing Raml becomes impractical, maintaining the spirit of dignity and purpose in one’s movement suffices.
Beginning the Tawaf
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram for Tawaf, ensure you are in a state of wudu (ritual purity). If you are performing a Tawaf that involves Idtiba, uncover your right shoulder. Cease reciting the Talbiyah as you begin the Tawaf.
Starting Point
The Tawaf begins at the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone). Look for the green light on the mosque’s wall, marking the starting point. Position yourself just before this point, facing the Kaaba.
Intention (Niyyah)
Before starting, set your intention for Tawaf:
“O Allah, I intend to perform Tawaf of your Sacred House for your sake alone. Please accept it from me and make it easy.”
In Arabic, the intention may be expressed as:
اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ طَوَافَ بَيْتِكَ الْحَرَامِ فَيَسِّرْهُ لِي وَتَقَبَّلْهُ مِنِّي
Istilam (Honoring the Hajar al-Aswad)
Honoring the Hajar al-Aswad includes kissing, touching, or saluting it:
- Kissing: If accessible, kiss the Hajar al-Aswad lightly.
- Touching: If you can’t kiss it, touch the Black Stone with your hand, then kiss your hand.
- Saluting: If both kissing and touching are not possible, perform a symbolic salute from a distance. Face the Hajar al-Aswad, raise your hands to your ears, palms facing the stone, and say:
“Bismi Llāhi wa Llāhu akbar
(بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ).”
You may recite a supplication when parallel to the Hajar al-Aswad:
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ ❁ اَللَّهُمَّ إِيمَاناً بِكَ وَتَصْدِيقاً بِكِتَابِكَ وَوَفَاءً بِعَهْدِكَ ❁ وَاتِّبَاعاً لِسُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدْ
“Bismi Llāhi wa Llāhu akbar. Allāhumma īmānan bika wa taṣdīqan bi kitābika wa wafāʿan bi ʿahdik(a), wattibāʿan li sunnati nabiyyika Muḥammad.”
Note: Be mindful of others during this practice. It is important not to cause harm or discomfort to fellow pilgrims while trying to reach the Hajar al-Aswad. If it’s too crowded, it’s advisable to honor the stone from a distance and continue with your Tawaf.
Starting the Tawaf
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, ensure you are in a state of wudu and prepare to begin the Tawaf by approaching the starting point, which is marked by the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone). Cease any previous recitations such as the Talbiyah as you commence your Tawaf.
Starting Point and Intention
The Tawaf initiates at the Hajar al-Aswad. Align yourself near this point, facing the Kaaba. Here, set your niyyah (intention) for the Tawaf:
“O Allah, I intend to perform the Tawaf of the Kaaba for Your sake. Please accept it from me and make it easy for me.”
In Arabic:
“اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ طَوَافَ بَيْتِكَ الْحَرَامِ فَيَسِّرْهُ لِي وَتَقَبَّلْهُ مِنِّي”
Istilam of the Hajar al-Aswad
Approach the Hajar al-Aswad to perform Istilam, which can involve:
- Kissing: Directly kiss the Black Stone if accessible.
- Touching: If close enough, touch the stone and then kiss your hand.
- Saluting: If neither kissing nor touching is possible, gesture towards it from a distance by raising your hands, palms facing the stone, and say, “Bismi Llāhi wa Llāhu akbar (In the name of Allah, and Allah is the Greatest).”
Recite the following supplication when in line with the Hajar al-Aswad:
“بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ ❁ اَللَّهُمَّ إِيمَاناً بِكَ وَتَصْدِيقاً بِكِتَابِكَ وَوَفَاءً بِعَهْدِكَ ❁ وَاتِّبَاعاً لِسُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدْ ❁”
“In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest. O Allah, I believe in You, affirm Your Book, fulfill Your Covenant, and follow the Sunnah of Your Prophet Muhammad.”
Performing the Tawaf
Begin the Tawaf by turning to your right, ensuring the Kaaba remains on your left. Avoid passing through the Hijr Ismail area, as doing so invalidates the circuit. Move in an anti-clockwise direction and observe the ritual of Raml during the first three circuits if possible. Raml involves walking briskly with lifted legs and pronounced movements, symbolizing strength and vigor.
Dhikr and Du’a During Tawaf
Engage in dhikr and personal supplications throughout the Tawaf. It’s encouraged to recite prayers that are meaningful and heartfelt rather than merely reading from texts. One potent du’a between the Rukn al-Yamani and the Hajar al-Aswad is:
“رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ”
“Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the fire.”
Completing the Tawaf
Complete seven circuits, finishing each by passing the Hajar al-Aswad and stating “Allāhu akbar.” Upon completion, perform two rak’ahs of Salah near the Maqam Ibrahim if space allows. If not, this can be done anywhere within the Masjid al-Haram.
Zamzam Water Rituals
After completing your prayers and supplications, hydrate and refresh your spirit with Zamzam water, readily available from numerous fountains and dispensers throughout Masjid al-Haram. The area where the original well of Zamzam once stood has been modified to allow greater access for pilgrims performing Tawaf.
Intention and Drinking Zamzam
Before drinking Zamzam water, set a specific intention for its consumption, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that Zamzam water serves whatever purpose it is drunk for. Stand facing the Kaaba, say “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah), and drink in three breaths, reflecting on your intentions such as seeking good health, success, or spiritual protection. Upon finishing, it is recommended to say “Alhamdulillah” (All praise be to Allah) and apply the water on your face and limbs. Here’s a powerful supplication to recite after drinking Zamzam:
“اللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا وَرِزْقًا وَاسِعًا وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا وَشِفَاءً مِنْ كُلِّ دَاءٍ”
“O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, ample provision, acceptance of my deeds, and healing from all diseases.”
The Multazam
Following your hydration, if feasible, approach the Multazam, the highly revered area between the Hajar al-Aswad and the Kaaba’s door. During less crowded times, you might be able to press yourself against the wall, raising your hands and making heartfelt supplications. If the area is too crowded, direct your supplications towards it from a distance, embodying your devotion and reverence.
Istilam Before Sa’i
As you prepare for Sa’i, perform Istilam of the Hajar al-Aswad once more if you’re proceeding directly from Tawaf to Sa’i. This act marks your readiness to continue with the rituals of Umrah, reinforcing your connection with the sacred elements of the pilgrimage.
Supplications During Tawaf
During Tawaf, you may recite the following du’as:
At the Start of Tawaf
The following du’a was recited by Ali ibn Ali Talib I:
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ ❁ اَللَّهُمَّ إِيمَاناً بِكَ وَتَصْدِيقاً بِكِتَابِكَ ❁ وَوَفَاءً بِعَهْدِكَ ❁ وَاتِّبَاعاً لِسُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدْ ❁
Bismi Llāhi wa Llāhu akbar. Allāhumma īmānan bika wa taṣdīqan bi kitābika wa wafāʿan bi ʿahdika wattibāʿan li sunnati nabiyyika Muḥammad ﷺ.
In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest. O Allah, out of faith in You, conviction in Your book, in fulfilment of Your covenant and in emulation of Your Prophet’s sunnah ﷺ.
At the Rukn al-Yamani
It is recorded in the Mustadrak of al-Hakim, that whoever recites the following du’a at the Yemeni corner, seventy thousand angels say “Amin” to it:
اللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْكُفْرِ وَالْفَقْرِ وَمَوَاقِفِ الْخِزْيِ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ ❁
Allāhumma innī aʿūdhu bika mina l-kufri wa l-faqri wa mawāqifi l-khizyi fi d-dunyā wa l-ākhirah.
O Allah, I take refuge in You from disbelief, poverty and from any humiliation in this world and the next.
Between the Rukn al-Yamani and the Hajar al-Aswad
The following two supplications were recited by the Prophet ﷺ:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ ❁
Rabbanā ātinā fi d-dunyā ḥasanatan wa fi l-ākhirati ḥasanatan wa qinā ʿadhāba n-nār.
O our Lord, grant us the good of this world, the good of the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the fire. [Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:201]
اللّٰهُمَّ قَنِّعْنِيْ بِمَا رَزَقْتَنِيْ وَبَارِكْ لِي فِيهِ ❁ وَاخْلُفْ عَلَ كُلِّ غَائِبَةٍ لِّي بِخَيْرٍ ❁
Allāhumma qanniʿnī bimā razaqtanī wa bārik lī fih(i), wakhluf ʿala kulli ghā’ibatin lī bi khayri.
O my Lord, make me content with what You have given me as sustenance, grant me blessings therein and grant me that which is better than what I have lost.
When passing the Mizab al-Rahmah, between the two corners, the Prophet ﷺ recited:
اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الرَّاحَةَ عِنْدَ الْمَوْتِ وَالْعَفْوَ عِنْدَ الْحِسَابِ ❁
Allāhumma innī as’aluka r-rāḥata ʿinda l-mawti wa l-ʿafwa ʿinda l-ḥisāb.
O Allah, I ask You for comfort at the time of death and forgiveness at the time of reckoning.
During Tawaf
It is recorded in Ibn Majah that the following du’as may be read during Tawaf:
اللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْعَفْوَ وَالْعَافِيَةَ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ ❁
Allāhumma innī as’aluka l-ʿafwa wa l-ʿāfiyata fi d-dunyā wa l-ākhirah.
O Allah, I ask You for forgiveness and safety in the worldly life and hereafter.
سُبْحَانَ اللهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ وَلَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ ❁ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ ❁ وَلَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ الْعَلِيِّ الْعَظِيمِ ❁
Subḥāna Llāhi wa l-ḥamdu li Llāhi wa lā ilāha illa Llāh(u), wa Llāhu akbar(u), wa lā ḥawla wa la quwwata illā bi Llāhi l-ʿaliyyi l-ʿaẓīm.
Glory be to Allah. All Praise is due to Allah. There is no god besides Allah. Allah is the Greatest. There is no power or might except with Allah, the Most High and the Most Great.
Guidelines for Performing Tawaf in Masjid al-Haram
Ground Level:
The ground level is the closest to the Kaaba, offering the most direct path for Tawaf but it is often very crowded, especially during peak times. Pilgrims should expect close contact and occasional bumps from other participants and wheelchairs. It’s recommended to start the Tawaf in the outer areas, progressively moving closer to the Kaaba for the middle circuits, and then returning outward for the final pass.
Middle Level:
The middle level offers a bit more space but still requires navigation around structural pillars. The density of the crowd can vary, providing a moderate pace for Tawaf.
Roof Level:
For those seeking the least congested experience, the roof level is ideal. Though the distance around the Kaaba is greater, resulting in a longer duration to complete Tawaf, it offers a more relaxed environment.
Practical Tips and Considerations:
- Maintain patience and be considerate of others, as the area can become extremely congested.
- Remember, Talbiyah is paused during Tawaf.
- If you need to stop your Tawaf due to starting congregational prayer, resume from where you stopped, or if necessary, restart the circuit.
- Wudu is essential for Tawaf; if it breaks, you must renew it before continuing.
- If tired, it’s acceptable to pause for rest and hydration before continuing from where you stopped.
- To manage crowds, especially on the ground level, consider performing Tawaf at less busy times or on higher levels.
For Women:
Women do not need to be accompanied by a mahram specifically for Tawaf, though it is generally advised. Designated prayer areas should be used during congregational prayers, and it’s preferable to perform Tawaf in less crowded areas.
Jurisprudence of Tawaf:
Prerequisites (Shuroot):
- Intention (niyyah) for Tawaf must be made.
- Tawaf should be performed within its stipulated times, especially for obligatory Tawafs like Tawaf al-Ziyarah.
- The full circuit of Tawaf must be completed within Masjid al-Haram.
Necessary Actions (Wajibat):
- Remain in a state of wudu.
- Cover the awrah appropriately.
- Perform Tawaf on foot, ensuring it’s done outside the Kaaba, and circumnavigate in an anti-clockwise direction.
- Complete seven circuits starting from Hajar al-Aswad.
- Perform two rak’ahs of salah after completing Tawaf.
Virtuous Actions (Sunnan):
- Begin Tawaf facing Hajar al-Aswad.
- Perform Istilam of Hajar al-Aswad where possible.
- For men in a state of Ihram, performing Idtiba and Raml during the first three circuits is recommended.
Disliked Actions (Makroohat):
- Turning your back to the Kaaba.
- Engaging in idle talk or actions unrelated to worship.
- Wearing dirty clothes or performing Tawaf in a state of hunger or physical discomfort.
- Loud dhikr or du’a that disturbs others.
- Skipping Idtiba or Raml where these are sunnah.
- Raising hands during Tawaf as in du’a, or folding them as in salah.
Here are the prohibited actions during Tawaf, in concise points:
- Ritual Impurity: Tawaf must not be performed if not in a state of ritual purity.
- Wrong Direction: Tawaf should always be performed anti-clockwise; doing otherwise invalidates it.
- Inadequate Dressing: Proper Islamic attire that covers the body appropriately must be worn.
- Improper Movement: Tawaf should be done on foot unless a valid reason necessitates otherwise.
- Passing through Hijr Ismail: Avoid crossing through this semi-circular area next to the Kaaba during Tawaf.
- Incorrect Starting Point: Tawaf must start at the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone).
- Skipping Obligations: All obligatory acts of Tawaf must be completed; omitting any can invalidate it.