DAY-1:
Prelude
Before the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, a person who wants to perform pilgrimage (Hajj) pronounces the intention to perform Umrah while approaching the Miqat. A second intention for the actual Hajj is pronounced at a later period. There are several rites to properly complete the Hajj and Umrah.
The rites of Umrah and Hajj may include but are not limited to: Putting Ihram, performing supererogatory (Sunnah) prayers, making several types of Tawaf, reciting Talbiyah, doing Sa’ee between Safa and Marwah, trimming and/or cutting hair, praying and staying in Mina, praying and standing in Arafah, praying and staying in Muzdalifah, throwing pebbles in three Jamrahs, sacrificing an animal, praying behind Maqam Ibrahim, and drinking from the well of ZamZam.
In the case of Hajj at-Tamattu, after completing the Umrah, the pilgrim trims his/her hair, showers, and changes into everyday clothes. These steps complete the Umrah portion. All restrictions of the Ihram are temporarily lifted. The pilgrim waits until the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah to start the rites of Hajj.
On the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, the pilgrim pronounces a new niyyah at the place to perform Hajj. There is no need to go to Miqat for this. The pilgrim changes into Ihram in the prescribed manner and proceeds to Mina soon after the Fajr Prayers.
Proclaiming the Niyyah for Hajj
Niyyah: “O Allah! I intend to perform Hajj. Make it easy for me and accept it from me. I make the niyyah for Hajj and enter into the state of Ihram for the sake of Allah alone, the Most High.”
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْحَجَّ فَيَسِّرْهُ لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهُ مِنِّيْ
Putting on Ihram After Fajr
The distinctive garb of the male pilgrim is worn during Hajj or Umrah. It consists of two pieces of white, un-sewn and plain cloth. One of the pieces is wrapped around the midriff to cover his body from just above his navel to his ankles, and the other is draped around his shoulders to cover the upper body. For ladies, their ordinary and unpretentious clothes of everyday wear constitute their Ihram. Its purpose is to demonstrate universality, totality and humility of the pilgrim.
During Ihram, the following acts are forbidden: Cutting hair, shaving any parts of the body, clipping nails, putting perfumes or colognes, killing or hunting animals, sexual intercourse, making marriage proposals, or marriage contracts.
Praying 2 Rak'at Nafl At Miqat
Miqat is an imaginary boundary around Makkah. A prospective pilgrim cannot cross this boundary without first changing into Ihram. The pilgrim changes into Ihram at Miqat and pronounces the intention to perform Hajj or Umrah.
The Miqat boundary is anchored by different townships and locations in different directions around the Kaabah. They are:
a) Dhu al-Hulayfah in the North
b) Yalamlam in the South-East
c) Dhāt 'Irq in the North-East
d) Al-Juhfah in the North-West
e) Qarn al-Manazil in the East.
For people living inside the Miqat area permanently, their place of residence is their Miqat.
Making Tawaf
The devotional act of circumambulating (i.e. walking around) the Ka'bah while reciting prayers and supplications. One complete circuit around the Ka'bah constitutes a shawt (pl. ashwat), and seven ashwat complete one Tawaf. During Tawaf (circumambulating), the pilgrim cannot enter the Ka'bah nor stop anywhere around it.
Performing Sa'ee
Sa'ee is the devotional act of walking seven times between the knolls of Safa and Marwah. This act retraces the footsteps of Hajar, wife of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh), during her desperate search for water for her infant son Ismail (pbuh) after they were left in the desert by Prophet Ibrahim in response to a Divine vision. Safa:
A small knoll approximately 200 yards from the Ka'bah inside the Masjid Al-Haram.
Marwah:
A small knoll (i.e., hillock) located approximately one hundred and fifty yards from the Ka'bah.
Reciting Talbiya
A devotional recital of the following words by the pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.
لَبَّيْكَ ٱللَّٰهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ ٱلْحَمْدَ وَٱلنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَٱلْمُلْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaik La Sharika Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamda, Wan-Ni'mata Laka wal-Mulk. La Sharika Lak.
Here I am at Thy service O Lord, here I am, Here I am at Thy service and Thou hast no partner. Thine alone is all Praise and All Bounty, and Thine alone is the Sovereignty. Thou hast no partner.
The Talbiyah is a prayer as well as an assertion of the pilgrim's conviction that he/she intends to perform Hajj only for the glory of Allah. The pilgrim starts the recital upon changing into the Ihram, and continues to recite it frequently throughout Hajj. Male pilgrims are required to recite the Talbiyah loudly whereas female pilgrims are required to recite it in low voice.
Going to Mina
The Pilgrim goes to Mina on the 8th of Thul-Hijjah anytime after Fajr prayer but before Zuhr.
Mina is a desert location approximately three miles from Makkah where several Hajj rites are performed.
Praying in Mina
The pilgrim must perform the daily prayers in Mina starting with Zuhur Prayer. Prayers are shortened from 4 to 2 Rakahs but not combined.
Staying Overnight in Mina
The pilgrim must stay overnight in Mina, perform the Fajr prayer and leave after sunrise on the 9th of Thul-Hijjah.
Prayer upon Departing from Mina:
O Allah! To You I turn, praying to approach Your Bounteous Countenance. Let my sins be forgiven and Hajj be acceptable, and have Mercy on me. Allow me not to be disappointed, for You have power over all things.
Completion of the First Day.
This completes the first Day of Hajj, also known as the Day of Tarwiyah.
DAY-2
Going to Arafah
After leaving Mina, the pilgrim heads toward Arafah.
Arafah is a desert location approximately nine miles from Makkah. Pilgrims don't have to get crowded on the Mount of Rahmah (Mountain of Mercy). They can stay in any place within the boundaries of Arafah..
Prayer Upon Entering Arafah:
O Allah! Forgive my sins, help me repent to you, and grant me all that I beseech of You. Whenever I turn, let me see goodness. Allah be praised! All Praise is due to Allah! There is no deity except Allah! And Allah is The Most Great.
Praying in Arafah
After settling down in the tents at Arafah, the pilgrim offers the Zuhur and Asr prayers in qasr (shortened from 4 to 2 rakah) and Jam' (combined), with one adhan and two separate Iqamahs.
Once in Arafah, the pilgrim should spend as much time in prayer and remembrance of Allah as possible. This is a very special day and the pilgrim may never see it again. Everyone must make the most out of it. No Nafl or any other prayers are performed, either before or after the obligatory prayers.
Staying in Arafah
The pilgrim stays in Arafah until sunset. It is recommended to spend the entire time reading the Quran, reciting the Talbiyah, offering supplications, and repenting to Allah.
Standing in Arafah
In the late afternoon just before sunset, the pilgrims may stand outside the tent facing the Qiblah, and raise their hands, supplicating to Allah. There are no prescribed prayers for Wuquf (standing) in Arafah. During these sacred moments, the pilgrim is alone with Allah, praying to have his/her sins and lifelong shortcomings get forgiven. Communication with Allah in any language is acceptable.
Leaving for Muzdalifah
After sunset, the pilgrim departs for Muzdalifah quietly, always reciting the Talbiyah and other prayers.
Muzdalifah is a desert location approximately midway between Mina and Arafah. The pilgrim spends the night of the 10th of Thul-Hijjah here.
Offering Prayers in Muzdalifah
The pilgrim offers Maghrib and Isha prayers combining them and shortening the Isha. Thus, after the adhan is called, three rak'ahs of Maghrib are offered following the usual iqamah. Another iqamah (but not adhan) is called and then two rak'ahs of Isha are offered.
The pilgrim stays under the sky at Muzdalifah. No tents or other lodging facilities are available.
Collecting Pebbles
The pilgrim then walks to the foot of nearby hills, and collects about 70 pea-size pebbles for throwing.
The pebbles lying around the bathrooms facilities should not be collected. No one should leave Muzdalifah before Fajr without a legitimate excuse: only women, elderly, and weak people can leave after midnight.
Completion of Second Day
The pilgrim spends the night at Muzdalifah and offers Fajr there. Before sunrise, the pilgrim leaves for Mina on the morning of the 10th of Thul-Hijjah.
After Fajr prayer, the pilgrim goes through the al-Mash'ar al-Haram and makes du'a until the brightness of the sun is widespread. The pilgrim must speed up the walk when passing by the Muhasir valley.
DAY-3 (Three):
Going to Mina
Pilgrims head to Mina to throw the stones at the Jumurah. Weak and sick people can appoint others to throw stones on their behalf.
Throwing Pebbles
The pilgrim stones the Jamrat al-Kubra (Jamrat al-Aqabah) only, preferably before midday. Stoning the pillar symbolizes stoning the devil. The pebbles must touch the inside of the Jamrat's fence.
The Jamrat al-Kubra is the closest to Makkah. While throwing the stones, the pilgrim recites Bismillah, Allah-u-Akbar with each pebble.
Sacrificing an Animal
A sacrifice is now required for the pilgrim performing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran. The choice of the animal is either a sheep, or 1/7th of a cow or a camel shared with other people.
As For the pilgrim performing Hajj al-Ifrad, sacrificing the animal is recommended but not required. One third of the meat can be consumed, one third offered as a gift and one third distributed to the poor people. The sacrifice can be performed between the 10th and the 13th of Thul-Hijjah but not after the 13th.
Cutting Hair
The pilgrim may now shave/trim the hair, shower, and change into everyday clothes. The hair may be shaved or trimmed for men. It is recommended to start from the right side. For women, trimming only a finger tip's length is required.
Sacrificing an animal, cutting hair, and performing Tawaf al-Ifadah are alternate rituals. There is no specific order to perform them. All ritual places must be kept clean.
At this point in time, the regulations for Ihram no longer apply except that the pilgrim can not have conjugal relations with his/her spouse until after Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'ee. This is known as at-Tahalul al-Asghar, or a partial ending of the state of Ihram.
Celebrating Eid ul-Adha
Starting from the 10th of Thul-Hijjah and on, Muslims around the world celebrate this special occasion.
EID-AL-ADHA is celebrated on the tenth day of Zul-hijjah, the 12th and the last month of the Islamic calendar. It is a very joyous day; it is a feast of self-sacrifice, commitment and obedience to Allah. It commemorates the great act of obedience to Allah by the Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) in showing his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismael (pbuh). Allah accepted his sacrifice and replaced Prophet Ismael (as) with a lamb.
Going to Makkah
The pilgrim proceeds to al-Masjid al-Haram in Makkah for Tawaf al-Ifadah.
The pilgrim has the option to postpone Tawaf al-Ifadah to a later time. Menstruating women should not make tawaf until their period stops. If the pilgrim selected Hajj Ifrad or Qiran and has already made Sa'ee with the first Tawaf (the visiting Tawaf), there is no need to make Sa'ee again.
Performing Tawaf al-Ifadah
The pilgrim performs the Tawaf al-Ifadah after taking off the Ihram and changing into everyday clothes and before returning to Mina for pebble throwing.
Ihram, Idtiba and Ramal are not required in this Tawaf. However, Sa'ee is required for a Mutamatti, but is not required for Qarin or a Mufrid.
Maqam Ibrahim
The step-stone used by the Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) during the original construction of the Ka'bah.
The stone carries the imprints of his feet, and is housed in a glass enclosure on the North side of the Ka'bah.
After completing the Tawaf, it is good to pray 2 rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible.
Prayer at Maqam Ibrahim
O Allah! You know that which I keep secret and that which I disclose. Grant me Your pardon. You know my needs; grant me my wishes. You know that which is in my breast; forgive me my sins. O Allah! I seek from You a Faith that will saturate my heart, and a true conviction that will make me realize that naught can befall me except what You have decreed for me, and that I may find contentment in whatever You have given me. You are my patron in this world and the Hereafter. Allow me to die in a state of Islam and to be counted among the righteous. O Allah! On this occasion of our presence in this place, let not any of our sins go unforgiven, nor any of our worries undispelled, nor any of our needs unfulfilled or unfacilitated by You. And let all our tasks be made easy, and our minds relieved, and our hearts illuminated and our actions judged as pious. O Allah! Allow us to die as Muslims and to join the ranks of the virtuous without any distress. Amen, O Lord of the Universe.
Drinking from Zamzam
After completing the prayer at Maqam Ibrahim, the pilgrim may visit the Zamzam area and drink from the water.
Prayer at ZamZam
O Allah! I seek from You profitable knowledge and bounteous sustenance and a cure from all ailments through Your Mercy, O Most Merciful of the mercifuls!
Performing Sa'ee between Safa and Marwah
The devotional act of walking seven times between the knolls of Safa and Marwah.
Returning to Mina
The pilgrim returns to Mina and stays there until the 12th or 13th of Thul-Hijjah for throwing the pebbles.
End of Day 3 (Three).
DAY-4(four):
Performing Prayers in Mina
Back in Mina, the pilgrim performs all of the daily prayers, shortening the 4 Rak'ats prayers to 2 Rak'ats, but without combinig them.
Stoning the Jamrahs
The pilgrim stones the first Jamrah, then the Middle, and finally the Big one in the same consecutive order, after midday on all three days. Each throwing is constituted of 7 pebbles with the pilgrim reciting Allahu Akbar and making Dua.
Throwing on the 13th of Thul-Hijjah is optional. The pilgrim may return to Makkah after throwing pebbles on the 12th of Thul-Hijjah to perform Tawaf al-Wada (farewell circumambulation).
Staying in Mina The pilgrim should stay in Mina minimum from Fajr until Midnight.
Extending the Stay For the pilgrims who intend to stay only two days, they must leave before Maghrib.
For those intending to stay more, they can collect more pebbles.
End of Day 4 (four).
DAY-5(five):
Stoning the Jamrahs
On the 12th of Thul-Hijjah, the same procedures as the 11th take place. The pilgrim stones the first Jamrah, then the Middle, and finally the Big one in the same consecutive order, after midday on all three days.
Throwing on the 13th of Thul-Hijjah is optional. The pilgrim may return to Makkah after throwing pebbles on the 12th of Thul-Hijjah to perform Tawaf al-Wada (farewell circumambulation).
Returning to Makkah
Pilgrims return to Makkah before Maghrib time after completing the stoning to perform Tawaf al-Wada.
Tawaf al-Wada
This is the farewell Tawaf that a pilgrim performs just before leaving Makkah for other destinations. It is the same as other Tawaf, going in 7 circuits, starting from the black stone line. After completing the Tawaf, it is good but not required to pray 2 Rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim, or, if not possible, to pray any other 2 Rak'ahs facing the Kaabah.
Departing from Makkah
This completes the Hajj journey. It is recommended to leave Makkah as soon as the pilgrim completes the pilgrimage. The pilgrim also asks Allah to accept the rituals and promises to abide by the divine commands.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said:
"Whoever goes to Hajj without obscenity he or she will be forgiven as a new-born."
Another Hadith states:
"A Sound Hajj has no reward except Paradise".
Al-Qiran
Qiran means entering ihram for hajj and 'umrah simultaneously, or entering ihram for 'umrah and subsequently incorporating the intention to perform hajj into the intention for 'umrah before beginning the rites of 'umrah. A pilgrim then performs the rites of hajj, fulfilling the obligation for both hajj and 'umrah.
Hajj al-Tamattu
Hajj al-Tamattu (Arabic: حج التمتع) involves performing Umrah during the months of Hajj, which are Shawwaal, Dhul Qadah, and Dhul Hijjah. This is usually done a few days before Hajj begins. Pilgrims then carry out the rites of Hajj when the pilgrimage starts. The word “Tamattu” signifies enjoyment. This is because pilgrims have the advantage of performing both Hajj and Umrah in the same journey without having to return home. After completing Umrah, they can enjoy the benefits of regular life after leaving the state of Ihram. They are unconstrained by prohibitions until they enter into a state of Ihram once again for Hajj.
About Hajj al-Tamattu
Hajj al-Tamattu is the easiest and most common type of Hajj and is performed by the vast majority of pilgrims. It is generally the pilgrimage of choice for the Afaqi, i.e. the pilgrim travelling from a different part of the world.
This type of Hajj consists of two separate intentions. An intention for Umrah is made before the Miqat is crossed, whilst the intention for Hajj is made in Makkah after the Umrah has been completed.
A pilgrim who performs Hajj al-Tamattu is called a Mutamatti.
According to the Hanafi school of thought, it is disliked for individuals from Makkah to perform this type of Hajj, although it would still be considered valid.
Step-by-Step Method
Enter into the state of Ihram at the Miqat with the intention of performing Umrah.
This Umrah must be completed during the period of Hajj of the same year, prior to beginning the actual Hajj itself.
Proceed to Makkah, where you will begin the rites of Umrah.
Upon reaching Makkah, perform Tawaf al-Umrah.
Perform two rak’ahs of salah at Maqam Ibrahim (if possible) and partake in the drinking of Zamzam water.
Proceed to Safa in order to perform Sa’i. This is separate from the Sa’i performed during Hajj.
Perform Halq or Taqsir. Men are recommended to have their hair trimmed rather than shaved as they will have their heads shaved at a later stage during Hajj. Women must have their hair trimmed.
Your Umrah is now complete and the restrictions of Ihram have now been lifted. You can shower and wear your everyday clothes. You will wait for the 8th of Dhul Hijjah to the start the rites of Hajj.On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, you will make a new intention for Hajj at your place of residence.
You will once again enter into a state of Ihram in the prescribed manner. There is no need to go to any particular Miqat to enter Ihram.
You will go to Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah where you will perform all the rites and actions of Hajj.
An animal sacrifice is required for Hajj al-Tamattu. Sacrificial animals are available in Mina and should be able to be arranged through your agent.
What is Tawaf?
Whether you’re a recent convert or born Muslim planning to perform Hajj or Umrah, obtaining an in-depth understanding of the term ‘Tawaf’ is crucial. Every time you proceed to the house of Allah for performing either greater or lesser pilgrimage, you’ll be required to deliver Tawaf. You should thus take the time to learn what exactly it means, why it is important, what are its different types, how is it performed, and more. In this guide, we’ll let you know everything you need to know about Tawaf. Let’s begin with what is Tawaf:
What Does Tawaf Mean?
The term ‘Tawaf’ is derived from the Arabic verb ‘Taafa’, which means ‘to encircle something’ or ‘to walk around something’. In the Islamic context, Tawaf refers to taking rounds or encircling the Holy Ka’abah seven times in an anti-clockwise direction as part of Umrah or Hajj, starting from Hajr-al-Aswad (the black stone). It’s among the most significant obligations of both Hajj and Umrah, without which the greater and minor pilgrimage would be incomplete. When performing Tawaf, pilgrims recite Takbir and various other supplications based on the Sunnah of the Prophet s.
Why is Tawaf Important?
The Tawaf is not just a practice of worship but also an act of devotion that brings the pilgrim closer to Allah. It demonstrates the unity of God’s believers and servants who pay a visit to His home from all over the world. As mentioned earlier, no Umrah or Hajj is complete without the performance of Tawaf. It’s important to note here that encircling the Holy Ka’abah doesn’t mean Muslims worship the Ka’abah. Instead, they worship the being that owns the Ka’abah, that is, Allah.
Let us take you through several interpretations that emphasize the importance of Tawaf:
Al-Bayt Al-Ma’mur: You’ll be interested in knowing that pilgrims perform Tawaf in tandem with the angels that circumambulate Al-Bayt Al-Ma’mur or ‘the Flourishing House’, the heavenly counterpart of the Holy Ka’abah, all the time. This means that the angels perform Tawaf around Al-Bayt Al-Ma’mur to worship Allah just as Muslims perform Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba in Masjid-e-Haram. As you may have observed, the Tawaf around the Ka’abah is performed 24 hours similar to how the angels perform their Tawaf around Al-Bayt Al-Ma’mur in the seventh heaven round the clock. The Holy Ka’abah is a reflection of the sacred Al-Bayt Al-Ma’mur, while we as pilgrims are a reflection of the virtuous angels. Isn’t that a huge privilege for us?
The Circular Motion of the Universe: The act of Tawaf is also a reflection of the orbiting motions of the heavenly bodies of this universe. You probably already know that the moon revolves around the earth, completing a revolution in a month, while the earth in turn revolves around the sun, completing a revolution in a year. Interestingly though, this circular motion extends well beyond our solar system. From the tiniest atoms to the largest galaxies, everything in this universe has been discovered to be revolving around a central point.
According to scientific research, the electrons inside a given atom orbit its nucleus or the core in an anti-clockwise direction. Amazingly, some atoms are so small that you can’t even see them via a microscope. Since everything is composed of atoms, every creation is in a constant orbital movement around a central point, as per the will of Allah. This is the unchanging, cosmic law of the universe. Not only has Allah created the entire universe, but He has also set up this entire system.
The act of Tawaf is a reflection of this cosmic law, with the Holy Ka’abah being the spiritual center of the world. The House of Allah is supposed to be the spiritual axis around which a Muslim’s compass rotates. Allah Ta’ala Himself regards the Holy Ka’abah as a Sacred House, serving as a symbol of the human encounter with the Supreme being. Just as all matter in this universe stays in a constant circular motion around a center, Tawaf is a continuous, 24-hour practice that doesn’t stop except for the five obligatory prayers. Like every orbit has one center, the act of Tawaf represents the worship of One God, Allah, none other than whom is worthy of worship.
Why Do Muslims Do Tawaf 7 Times?
Tawaf is an act of worship and regardless of the type of worship we perform, we do not ask why there are to be performed in a certain fashion. We simply perform them because God commanded us and in a way prescribed and taught by the Holy Prophet s.
We believe that Allah Ta’ala possesses infinite wisdom, which is why He never orders anything unwise, but we don’t necessarily need to know the science behind every command. For certain practices, Allah Ta’ala has disclosed the cause; for others, He hasn’t. And we’re expected to obey every command, without getting into the roots. For example, it’s obligatory to pray five times a day and fast for 30 days during the month of Ramadan. Why we need to perform them isn’t important.
Having said that, the purpose of Tawaf is to represent the notion that our lives should revolve around remembering and staying obedient to Allah Ta’ala. By performing Tawaf, we reinforce the centrality of the spiritual focus that we face while performing the daily prayers.
The practice of Tawaf also connects us with the tradition of one of Allah’s most beloved Prophets, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) e. He, along with his son, Prophet Ismail e, took part in the reconstruction of the Holy Ka’abah. Right after the completion of Tawaf, pilgrims head to Maqam-e-Ibrahim (the station of Abraham) and perform Salah there.
While these are some identified causes for the performance of Tawaf, there the reason for the frequency ‘seven’ remains unknown. We follow that frequency in obedience to the commands of Allah Ta’ala and the practice of the Holy Prophet s.
Allah SWT in the Holy Quran says, “Then, let them complete the rites prescribed for them, perform their vows, and (again) circumambulate the Ancient House.” [Holy Quran, Al-Hajj 22:29].
What is the Difference Between Tawaf and Tawaf Al-Qudum?
While we’ll discuss the five different types of Tawaf later in the guide, let’s go through the basic difference between Tawaf Al-Qudum and the rest of the types of Tawaf. Keep in mind that the procedure to perform all types of Tawaf remains the same. The only differentiating aspect is the intention or niyat you make before performing Tawaf.
Tawaf Al-Qudum refers to the initial Tawaf that’s performed by pilgrims as soon as they enter Masjid Al-Haram with the specific intention of performing Hajj Al-Ifrad or Hajj Al-Qiran. Pilgrims must be in a state of Ihram when performing this Tawaf. As per the Prophet’s s Sunnah, male pilgrims should observe Idtiba and Raml when performing the Tawaf.
Tawaf Al-Qudum is similar to Tahiyyat Al-Masjid, the salah performed to greet the Mosque. The Tawaf is meant to greet the House of Allah. In contrast, when you arrive in Makkah with the intention to perform Umrah only, you perform Tawaf Al-Umra upon entering Masjid Al-Haram instead of carrying out Tawaf Al-Qudum. Other types of Tawafs are performed at different times during or after the Hajj or as standalone Tawafs. (We’ll take a look at them in detail later in the guide.)
How to Perform Tawaf?
The method to perform different types of Tawaf stays the same. We’ll take you through the steps to perform Tawaf, as prescribed by the Holy Prophet s:
Before heading to Masjid Al-Haram, be sure to observe ablutions, including wudhu and cleaning oneself from all major and minor impurities.
Both men and women must ensure that their private body parts are covered. For men, this means the part of the body between their navel and knees, while women should have their entire body covered except for the face and hands.
Enter the state of Ihram at one of the Meeqats. This includes both wearing the Ihram clothing and making the niyyah for Umrah or Hajj.
Whether you intend to perform Umrah or Hajj, you’ll be performing Tawaf right after entering Masjid-Al Haram.
All pilgrims begin and end their Tawaf at Hajr Al-Aswad (the black stone). Stand facing the Ka’abah with the black stone on your right and make the intention to perform Tawaf solely to please Allah.
If possible, kiss the sacred stone. If you can’t get close to it due to the crowd or COVID-19 restrictions, stand facing the black stone, anywhere on the Tawaf line and gesture toward the stone with your right hand once. When doing this, recite ‘Bismillahi Wallahu Akbar’ and begin your first circle in the anti-clockwise direction.
Men should observe Idtiba and Raml. Idtiba is the practice of keeping the right shoulder uncovered during the Tawaf. You’ll be wearing Ihram clothing, so pass the upper Ihram garment from under your right armpit, allowing it to hand from your left shoulder. Raml, on the other hand, is the act of walking quickly (for men) during the first three rounds of Tawaf like a warrior would during a war. This means you’ll lift your legs forcefully and stick out your chest while walking fast. For the rest of the four rounds, you’ll walk in your normal way. Both Idtiba and Raml are the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW).
When performing Tawaf, be careful not to enter the Hateem area. This portion forms part of the Holy Ka’abah, which is why you need to be encircling it rather than entering it. Any circle made through the Hateem won’t count as Tawaf.
While you should complete the Tawaf in a continuous manner, you must join the congregation prayer when it begins, and resume your Tawaf after the prayers. You can continue from where you left; no need to start the rounds all over again.
One round completes when you return to Hajr Al-Aswad. Every time you reach the black stone, perform Istilam or gesture toward it. Upon returning to the stone after completing seven rounds, you’ll perform the gesture the eighth time.
Upon completing the Tawaf, leave the state of Idtiba by covering your right shoulder with your Ihram clothing.
After completing your Tawaf, head to Maqam-e-Ibrahim to offer two rakats Salah al-Tawaf. Since the place is located within Mataf (the area where tawaf is carried out), it may be too crowded to perform salah there. In that case, you may perform Salah al-Tawaf anywhere in Masjid Al-Haram.
Duas to Recite During Tawaf :
During your Tawaf, you may recite various duas, supplications, and prayers. Once your Umrah package is finalised, you should spend the bulk of your time learning the various duas to recite on Umrah. Tawaf is one of the acts of worship when duas are accepted. It’s not necessary to pray in Arabic; you may pray in your own language. However, it’s highly recommended not to miss the duas that the Prophet s used to pray. Here are some duas to recite during the Tawaf, as prescribed by the Sunnah of the Prophet s:
Dua 1: When commencing your Tawaf while facing Hajr Al-Aswad, recite the following dua after you’ve made your intention:
Bismillahi Allahu akbar wa lillahil hamd.
Translation: I begin in the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest, and all Praise be to Allah.
Dua 2: Each time you walk between the Yemeni corner of the Holy Ka’abah and Hajr Al-Aswad, recite the following dua:
Rabbanaa aatina Fiddunya hasanah, wa fil akhirati hasanah, wa qinaa azab annaar.
Translation: O our Lord! Grant us the best in this life and best in the hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of hellfire. (2:201)
Types of Tawaf
Depending on whether you aim to perform Umrah or Hajj and the step at which you are while performing a ritual, there are five different types of Tawafs you can perform, which are all performed in the same manner. They include:
Tawaf Al-Qudum
Tawaf Al-Qudum is the initial, greeting Tawaf performed by any Muslim who decides to perform Hajj Al Qiraan or Hajj Al-Ifraad. You must be wearing Ihram during this Tawaf and males should observe Raml and Idtiba. Pilgrims arriving for Hajj al-Ifraad and Hajj Al-Qiraan must perform this Tawaf any time before 9th Dhul Hijjah, the day of staying at Arafat.
Note that you don’t have to perform Tawaf al-Qudum if you are going for Umrah, as the Tawaf of Umrah liberates pilgrims from it.
Tawaf Al-Umrah
This type of Tawaf is carried out by those heading to perform Hajj Al-Tamattu or a standalone Umrah outside of the Hajj Season. Hajj Al-Tamattu is performed by pilgrims who live outside Saudi Arabia and intend to perform both Umrah and Hajj together. They first perform Umrah, during which Tawaf Al-Umrah is carried out, and then proceed to Hajj. Again, the pilgrim should be wearing Ihram while performing this Tawaf, and Idtiba and Raml are observed by male pilgrims. After Tawaf al-Umrah and the associated two rakats Salah, pilgrims perform Sa’i.
Tawaf Al-Ziyarah
Also known as Tawaf-al Ifadah, Tawaf-al Ziyarah is performed on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah by Hajj pilgrims, prior to returning to Mina to carry out Rami Al-Jamarat (Stoning the satan). Since pilgrims leave the state of Ihram after Halq (shaving the head or cutting the hair), this Tawaf is performed in ordinary clothing. However, marital relations are still prohibited until you complete Tawaf Al-Ziyarah.
Tawaf Al-Wada
Tawaf al-Wada is performed by Qiraan, Ifrad, and Tamattu Hajj pilgrims right before leaving Makkah after the completion of their Hajj. You need not be in the state of Ihram to perform this Tawaf; it can be performed in regular clothing.
Nafl Tawaf
Like Nafl Salah, this type of Tawaf is a voluntary tawaf that anyone can perform as many times as they like, any time. While staying in Makkah for any reason, you should make the most out of your free time by engaging in Nafl Tawaf.
Once your Tawaf is complete and you’re done with the two rakats of Salah al-Tawaf, proceed to the well of Zamzam to obtain Zamzam water.
Intention for Tawaf
The formality of the holy Hajj has begun. The first thing the pilgrims do is to pack their belongings quickly. Then he will appear in 'Haram Sharif' without delay and do 'Tawaf Kudum'.
Apart from Tawaf of Umrah and Hajj, Nafl Tawaf can also be done. For example, to perform Tawaf in the memory of the Prophet (peace be upon him), Sahaba-Awliya, Ahle Bayt, parents and other elders or children or in their names.
Tawaaf which is wajib
1. To keep the body pure, to make ablution. It is not permissible for women to perform tawaaf while menstruating.
2. Satar Dhaka. That is, Dhaka is obligatory for every man and woman.
3. Tawaf of Hatim-e-Ka'bah from outside.
4. Performing Tawaf while walking. A disabled person can perform tawaf through a cot.
5. Starting from 'Hajer Aswad' and starting Tawaf on the right.
6. Completing Tawaf with 'seven rounds' without any break.
7. One Tawaf in 'Saat Chakkar'; When it is complete, then pray 'Tawaf'.
Sunnah Functions of Tawaf
1. Facing Hajar al-Aswad at the beginning of Tawaf.
2. Kissing 'Hajer Aswad' if possible. Otherwise, pointing from a distance with your hands. And saying 'Bismillah Allahu Akbar Walillahil Hamd' in the mouth.
3. Standing along the Hajj Aswad and raising both hands up to Sina like Takbir al-Tahrimah.
4. Performing 'Ijteba' in the Tawaf followed by 'Sai'. That is, to take the two heads of the Ihram sheet (upper part) under the right armpit and throw it over the left shoulder.
5. Performing 'Ramal' in the first three rounds of Tawaaf with 'Sai'. That is, leaning like a hero, swinging hard (one step after another).
6. Complete the remaining four rounds at normal speed (slowly).
7. Kissing 'Hajer Aswad after completing Tawaaf every round and after the last round. If it is not possible, then by pointing from a distance – recite the dua 'Bismillahi Allah Akbar Walillahil Hamd' and end the 'Tawaf' by standing like rule number 3.
Intention of Tawaf
The rules don't have to be read, they have to be done. In the books of Hadith and Fiqh, it has been said to have intention in all cases. To have a desire in the mind is called intention. But if anyone wants to read it, they can read. However, reading can never be considered more important than intention.
If anyone wants, he can recite it like this: 'Allahumma inni uridu tawafa baitikal haram fayassirhu-li, wa taqabbal-hu-minni, sabaa'ta ashwatibn lillahi ta'ala.' ’
Or you can say in Bangla: 'O Allah, I have made an intention to perform Tawaf.' ’
Obligatory acts of Tawaf
First and Second
Tawaf should be begun from al-Hajar al-Aswad (the black stone) and should finish at al-Hajar al-Aswad. It is enough that beginning and finishing is accepted by the normal place from al-Hajar al-Aswad, and it is not necessary to notice in part of body to be parallel to the parts of al-Hajar al-Aswad, but it is obligatory precaution to start Tawaf a little before al-Hajar al-Aswad and finish it a little after al-Hajar al-Aswad in order to be sure about performing seven complete rounds.
Third
It is obligatory to perform Tawaf in the way that the Kaa’ba is at the left side of the body as is common among Muslims, and Tawaf on the upper levels of Masjid al-Haraam is not free of problem in other than the cases of necessity.
It is not necessary that the left shoulder always be parallel to the Kaa’ba and it is enough if the pilgrim circumambulates normally. If sometimes he/she faces Ka’ba and then continues the round it has no problem, and it is not necessary to perform the thing which others do that is the left shoulder should always be parallel to Ka’ba (even when they reach Hijr Ismael).This act has no necessity of performance, and even if it is vilified, their Tawaf has problem. It is better that they have the presence of heart (getting rid of all secular problem and only think of Allah) and pray to Allah and circumambulate Ka’ba like other Muslims instead of these unnecessary observations about the left shoulder to be always parallel to Ka’ba.
Fourth
It is obligatory to include Hijr Ismael into Tawaf, which means to perform Tawaf of Hijr Ismael from outside and if someone performs Hijr Ismael from inside then he/she should not count that round and begin from al-Hajar al-Aswad (but because in these cases returning back is not possible because of congestion of people, then it is better that performer continues with other people and completes that round without intention and when he/she reaches al-Hajar al-Aswad makes intention and begin the next round).
Fifth
Tawaf should be performed out of the house of Ka’ba. Tawaf inside Ka’ba is not permitted. Also it is not permitted to perform Tawaf on that part of side of Ka’ba which is called Shadherwan (although today Shadherwan has been made in the way that practically Tawaf is not possible on that) and it is not permitted to go on the wall of “Hijr Ismael” and perform Tawaf.
Putting the hand on the wall of Ka’ba or the wall of Hijr Ismael or on the al-Hajar al-Aswad does not harm Tawaf, but the Mustahab precaution is to abstain from putting the hands on the wall of Ka’ba on the side which Shadherwan is placed.
If a person enters the Ka’ba during Tawaf then his/her Tawaf is invalidated and he should redo it, and whenever one performs Tawaf from inside of Hijr Ismael then that round should be performed again from al-Hajar al-Aswad is, as has been said before. But if someone performs on the wall of Hijr Ismael or Shadherwan then only that distance should be retaken.
Whenever one leaves Tawaf deliberately but does not go out of the mosque and returns before that sequence is completed and continues from the place that he/she had left, then this Tawaf is correct.
Sixth
It is famous among Faqihs that Tawaf should be performed in the distance between the Maqam Ibrahim and the house of Ka’ba (it is less than thirteen meters) and this distance should be observed from each side.
Therefore, the Tawaf zone is less than three and a half meters in the side of Hijr Ismael, because the size of Hijr Ismael is ten meters and it subtracts from the whole distance.
But it was so much better that Tawaf could be performed in all parts of Masjid al-Haraam although it is better to observe the precaution. It means that if performing Tawaf in the defined distance is not hard then the Muhrim does not go out of that zone; and performing Tawaf in upper levels is not free of problem in other than necessary cases.
Seventh
Sequence is one of the conditions of Tawaf; it means that the performer should circumambulate seven complete rounds around the house of Ka’ba. Less than seven rounds is not enough, but as we said before, sequence is not one of the condition of a supererogatory Tawaf.
Whenever the time of obligatory or supererogatory “Vitr” prayer comes during obligatory Tawaf, then the performer can leave Tawaf, perform the prayer and then return and continue the rest of Tawaf, only if it is before the completion of four rounds or after that.
Sunnah acts during Tawaf
1- Facing the Black Stone 2- Al-‘Idtiba` (Uncovering one’s shoulder) 3- Ramal or Jogging 4- Touching the Yemeni Corner 5- Offering Two Rakahs After Tawaf.
Elaborating more on these supererogatory acts, Sheikh Sayyed Sabiq states in his well-known book, Fiqh As-Sunnah:
1- Facing the Black Stone at the beginning of tawaf while uttering takbir (Allahu-Akbar), and tahlil (La ilaha illahlah), and raising one’s hands as they are raised in prayer, and if possible touching it with both hands and kissing it lightly, or placing one’s cheek on it.
Otherwise, one may touch it with one’s hand, kiss the hand, or touch it with something, and then kiss that something, or if even that is not possible, one may just point to it with a stick, etc. as mentioned in some of the hadiths referred to below.
Ibn Umar said: “Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) faced the Black Stone, touched it, and then placed his lips on it and wept for a long time.” Likewise, `Umar also wept for a long time. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: ‘O Umar, this is the place where one should shed tears.”’ (Al-Hakim)
2- Al-‘Idtiba` (Uncovering one’s shoulder)
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions stated their intention to perform Umrah from al-Jiranah by wearing the clothing of ihram but leaving their right shoulders uncovered, bringing their ihram up from under their right armpits while covering the left shoulder. (Ahmad and Abu Dawud)
The majority of scholars hold a similar view and claim that doing so is helpful in ramal (jogging) while making Tawaf. Imam Malik is of the opinion, however, that doing so is not recommended, for it is not a known practice, nor did he see anyone doing so.
3- Ramal or Jogging
Ramal means walking quickly and vigorously while moving one’s shoulders and taking small steps, giving a sense of strength and energy. Ibn Umar reported that Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) jogged from the Black Stone around the Kabah and back to the Black Stone again three times, and then walked the remaining four rounds. (Muslim)
If a person does not jog during the first three rounds, then he is not required to make it up in the last four rounds. Ramal (Jogging) and idtiba’ (uncovering one’s right shoulder) are prescribed for men only while making tawaf for Umrah. When a pilgrim performs Hajj, tawaf is always followed by sa`i (walking between Safa and Marwah).
Women are not obligated to jog or uncover their right shoulders because they must cover themselves properly. Ibn Umar said: “Women are not obligated to jog around the Kabah nor while making sa`i between Safa and Marwah.” (Al-Baihaqi)
4- Touching the Yemeni Corner
This is based on the statement of Ibn Umar in which he said: “I never saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) touching any other parts of the Kabah except the two corners: the Black Stone and the Yemeni corner.” And he added, “No matter how hard and difficult the circumstances, I have never failed to touch these two corners – the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone – ever since I saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) doing so.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
5- Offering Two Rakahs After Tawaf
It is sunnah to offer two rak`ahs after completing the tawaf at the Station of Ibrahim (peace and blessings be upon him), or at any other place in the Sacred Mosque, regardless of whether it is a supererogatory tawaf or an obligatory one (as in Hajj or Umrah).
Jabir reported: “When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) came to Makkah, he circumambulated the Ka`bah seven times, then went to the Station of Ibrahim and recited the verse, “And take of the Station of Abraham a place of prayer.” (Al-Baqarah 2:125) He prayed behind it, and then went to the Black Stone and kissed it.” (At-Tirmidhi)
In these two rakahs, it is sunnah to recite Surat Al-Kafirun in the first rakah, and Surat Al-Ikhlas in the second rakah, after reciting Al-Fatihah. (Muslim)
These two rakahs may be offered at any time of the day or night including the prohibited times.
There are a few mustahab acts recommended in a state of ihram:
1. Before wearing ihram one must clean the body, cut one's nails, trim the moustache and remove the hair under the armpits and below the navel.
2. Those who intend to proceed to Hajj should keep the hair on the head and beard loose from the first of Thil Qa'dah and those intending to perform an Umrat-ul-Mufradah for one month before the trip.
3. One must perform ghusl at the meqat but if there is fear that water will not be available there, it may be performed before leaving for meqat. If water is found there, the ghusl be repeated.
4. If after the ghusl, one urinates, eats or wears clothes forbidden in a state of ihram, it is recommended that the ghusl be repeated. A ghusl performed during the day will last to the end of the night which follows and the ghusl made in the night will last to the end of the following day.
5. At the time of ghusl, one can say the following supplication as stated by Sadooq:
6. (I commence by the name of Allah and seek help from Him. O Allah render this ghusl an illumination for me and that it may purify me, protect me from all fears and be a cure for all ills. O Allah! purify me and my heart, broaden my chest and that my tongue may utter words of love, adoration and praise for You as there is no strength for me but You and I know that my religion is submission to You and following the practices of Your prophet, may Your peace be on him).
7. At the time of wearing the ihram, you may say the following supplication:
8. (All praise to Allah who has graced me with clothes to cover my body, perform my duties, worship my Sustainer and reach where He has commanded me. All praise be to Allah who, when I directed my course towards Him, reached me; when I directed my intentions towards Him, assisted me, drew me closer and did not shatter me; when I sought His pleasure, granted me peace. He is my fort, refuge, protector, support, hope, salvation, saviour and my provider in times of hardship and comfort).
9. The cloths for ihram be made of cotton.
10. The ihram be worn after dhuhr prayer. If this is not possible, it be worn after any daily prayer or after the recitation of two raka'as . It is preferable that in the first raka'a, after the recitation of the Chapter of Al-Hamd, the Chapter of Tawheed be said and in the second raka'a, after the Chapter of Al-Hamd, the Chapter of Kafiroon be said. After the prayer, Allah be praised and may peace be with the Holy Prophet and his pure progeny.
11. Then the following could be said: (O Allah! include me among those who have responded to Your call, have faith in Your promise and follow Your command, for I am Your slave in Your confinement. I cannot be saved, except by You, and cannot take, except what You grant. You have reminded us of Hajj. I beseech You that You make me firm on Your book and the practices of Your Prophet (s.a.w.). Grant me strength where I am weak and that I may perform what is incumbent on me with ease and health. Include me among those whose arrival pleases You, You are pleased with, You call by name and have recorded. O Allah! I have travelled from far and have spent my property to attain Your pleasure.
12. O Allah! accomplish my Hajj and Umrah. O Allah! in compliance with Your book and the practice of Your Prophet (s.a.w.), I intend to perform the Umrat-ut-Tamatu' for Hajj. If any impediment comes in my way, remove it by Your power. O Allah! if I do not achieve the Hajj, I may at least the Umrah. I forbid myself, for Your sake, my hair, body, flesh, blood, bones, brain, my union with my wife, clothes and perfume so that I may attain Your pleasure and the Hereafter).
13. Make the niyyah (intention) for ihram together with talbiyah.
14. It is recommended that men say the talbiyah aloud.
15. Say during the talbiyah:
16. (I am present, O High, I am present. I am present, O one who calls towards Heaven. I am present, I am present O Forgiver of sins. I am present, I am present O One who owns my presence. I am present, I am present O Mighty and Generous. I am present, I am present O You who first created and to whom all will return. I am present, I am present O One who is free from want and to whom all turn for their needs.
17. I am present, I am present O who is feared and to whom there is inclination. I am present I am present, O true God. I am present O the One with Grace, Excellence, Goodness and Beauty. I am present O one who averts major calamities. I am present, I am present Your servant and the son of Your servant. I am present, I am present O Generous, I am present).
18. Then say:
19. (I am present seeking closeness to You through Muhammad and his progeny. I am present, I am present for Hajj or Umrah, I am present, I am present. And this is the Umrah connecting to the Hajj. I am present, I am present; my presence is certain and so is my communication to You).
20. The talbiyah constantly repeated in a state of ihram, when waking from sleep, after every prayer, when embarking on a vehicle, riding, disembarking or dismounting, while climbing or descending, when meeting other riders or in the desert; and even in the condition of janabah or menstruation. It must not be stopped in the Umrat-ut-Tamatu' until the houses of Makkah appear and in Hajj-ut-Tamatu' till the zawaal of the day of Arafat.