Tawaf in Hajj and Umrah: Meaning, Types, Steps, Rules, and Duas

What is Tawaf? Meaning and Importance in Islam

Tawaf in Hajj and Umrah is one of the most sacred rituals in Islam. It involves circumambulating the Kaaba, the sacred house of Allah, seven times in a counter-clockwise (anti-clockwise) direction. This act symbolizes unity, humility, and submission to Allah.

In Islamic traditions, Tawaf is also known as a performative devotion. The word tawaf is derived from the Arabic root tawaf, which means “to walk around something.”

It is a physical and spiritual act of worship that connects Muslims around the world, reminding them of their common faith and purpose.

Spiritual Importance of Tawaf

•  Connection with Allah: Tawaf holds great importance in worship, aiding pilgrims in getting closer to Allah.
•  Purification of Sins: Sins of the past are believed to be washed away by performing Tawaf with devotion.
•  Unity Among Muslims: Tawaf is performed by millions of Muslims, regardless of race or color, proving the unity which is called Ummah.

History of Tawaf: From Pre-Islamic Era to Today

Tawaf in Pre-Islamic Times

Before Islam, Tawaf was performed by pagans in a vastly different manner. Tawaf was done by naked pagans who believed their garments were bound with sin.

This resulted in the separation of men and women. Tawaf, done exclusively by women, would take place at night.

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Tawaf in Islam

The custom Tawaf, as it is known today, was designed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

He focused on Tawaf’s hygiene, modesty, and overall spiritual essence. Tawaf now became an act of worship with no traces of paganism.

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Hadith References on Tawaf

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“Tawaf around the House is like prayer, except that you may talk during it. So, whoever talks, let them say only good.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)

Types of Tawaf Explained

Tawaf Al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf)

This Tawaf welcoming the sacred house is performed when entering Masjid al-Haram for Hajj.

Tawaf Al-Ifadah (Main Tawaf of Hajj)

The most significant Tawaf is this one, which is done on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah after leaving Ihram.

Tawaf Al-Wada’a (Farewell Tawaf)

Later referred to as the Tawaf of The Departure, this Tawaf is done last by pilgrims just before leaving Makkah.

Tawaf Al-Umrah

While performing Tawaf during Umrah, it is required to do it before Sa’i, which is the act of walking between Safa and Marwah.

Tawaf Al-Nafl (Voluntary Tawaf)

As an act of devotion, this can be done whenever, without having to wait for a specific time.

Tawaf Al-Nadhr (Vowed Tawaf)

This can only be done when a pilgrim makes a vow to Allah.

Tawaf Al-Tahiyya (Greeting Tawaf)

This is recommended to be done when you first enter the Masjid al-Haram.

How to Perform Tawaf: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing for Tawaf

• Purification of the heart alongside some good intentions should be done before entering Masjid al-Haram.
• Ablution (wadu) must be performed, and hospital garments (Ihram) must be put on (only if required).
• Knowing the etiquette of Masjid al-Haram is necessary.

Starting Tawaf from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)

Begin at the Black Stone, raising your hands and reciting:

• Arabic: بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللهُ أَكْبَر
• Transliteration: Bismillah, Allahu Akbar
• Translation: In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.

If possible, kiss or touch the Black Stone. If not, gesture towards it.

Performing the Seven Circuits of Tawaf

• You are required to rotate counter-clockwise around the Kaaba while keeping it to your left.
•  Say duas and dhikr in every round. Below are some suggested duas:

Dua for Tawaf

• Arabic: رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
• Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah, wa fil-akhirati hasanah, wa qina ‘adhaban-nar
• Translation: Our Lord, grant us good in this world and the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.

Completing Tawaf & Praying Near Maqam Ibrahim

•  Offer two rak’ahs of Salah at Maqam Ibrahim after completing the seven rounds.
•  After that drink Zamzam water and make duas.

Rules & Conditions of Tawaf

Who Can Perform Tawaf?

• Tawaf becomes mandatory for all healthy Muslims during Hajj or Umrah.

Do You Need Ihram for Tawaf?

• Irham is a requirement for Tawaf Al-Qudum and Tawaf Al-Umrah, but not for voluntary Tawaf.

Can You Perform Tawaf Without Wudu?

• No, Wudu is mandatory for Tawaf.

Can Women Perform Tawaf During Menstruation?

• Women who are menstruating cannot perform Tawaf until they are pure.

What to Do If Tawaf Is Interrupted?

• Carry on from where you stopped and ensure that all seven circuits are completed.

Duas & Recommended Prayers for Tawaf

Best Duas to Recite During Tawaf

• Arabic: بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللهُ أَكْبَر
• Transliteration: Bismillah, Allahu Akbar
• Translation: In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.
• Arabic: رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
• Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah, wa fil-akhirati hasanah, wa qina ‘adhaban-nar
• Translation: Our Lord, grant us good in this world and the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.

Special Duas at Rukn al-Yamani

• Arabic: اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْكُفْرِ وَالْفَقْرِ
• Transliteration: Allahumma inni a‘udhu bika minal-kufri wal-faqri
• Translation: O Allah, I seek refuge in You from disbelief and poverty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Tawaf

• Speaking about worldly affairs.
•  Forcing people to touch the Black Stone.
•  Missing compulsory Wudu or change of clothes.
•  Not completing all seven circuits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tawaf

Why is Tawaf performed 7 times?

As Muslims, we believe the number seven represents grace and beauty in some way, as is order in imbalance.

What happens if I forget how many rounds I have completed?

To avoid uncertainty, completing one additional round is more practical.

Can I take a break between Tawaf rounds?

Yes, but you must pick up from where you stopped.

Is Tawaf valid if done on a wheelchair?

Yes, as long as you finish the 7 rounds.

How long does it take to complete one Tawaf?

With varying levels of congestion (depending on crowd density), completing it should normally take 30 to 45 minutes.

Can I perform Tawaf at night?

Tawaf may be performed at any time, including the night.

What is the significance of the Black Stone in Tawaf?

The Black Stone serves as an unmistakable point of reference for participants throughout the circulatory lap, denoting the oneness of worship.

Can I perform Tawaf for someone else?

No, Tawaf is exclusively an individual act of devotion.

What should I wear during Tawaf?

As for men, they’ll have to put on Ihram. Women are to be dressed modestly, covering their bodies apart from the face and hands.

Can I perform Tawaf during Hajj without Umrah?

Indeed; Tawaf Al-Ifadah is executed during Hajj with no requirement of accompanying Umrah.

Conclusion: The Spiritual Essence of Tawaf

Tawaf goes beyond being a step on the itinerary; it is an odyssey of the spirit (journey of the soul).

It symbolizes the oneness of Muslims as one community and the harmony of the world. In Tawaf, Tawaf pilgrims attempt Allah and renew their connection with Him by asking for mercy, directions, and strength.