Tawaf is one of the fundamental rituals of Hajj and Umrah, where pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction. This act of devotion symbolizes the unity of Muslims in worshiping Allah and is performed at the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah. Tawaf reflects the centrality of Allah in the life of every Muslim, as pilgrims revolve around the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam.

Types of Tawaf

There are several types of Tawaf that pilgrims may perform, depending on the context of their pilgrimage:

• Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf): Performed upon entering the Sacred Mosque as part of Hajj.
• Tawaf al-Ifadah: A mandatory act of Hajj, performed after coming out of Ihram.
• Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf): Performed as a farewell before leaving Makkah.
• Tawaf al-Umrah: A central part of the Umrah pilgrimage, which is done upon arrival in Makkah.
• Tawaf al-Nafl: A voluntary act of worship that can be performed at any time.

How to Start Tawaf

1. Ensure You Are in a State of Wudu

Before beginning Tawaf, it’s important to be in a state of wudu (ritual purification). If your wudu is broken during the ritual, it should be renewed before continuing.

2. Begin at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad)

Tawaf starts at the Black Stone, a sacred object embedded in the corner of the Kaaba. The Black Stone marks the starting and ending point for each circuit. You should make sure you are aligned with the stone before starting.

3. Make Your Intention (Niyyah)

As with any act of worship, it is important to make your niyyah (intention) before beginning Tawaf. Your intention should be sincere, focusing on performing this act solely for the sake of Allah.

4. Recite “Bismillah Allahu Akbar”

When you reach the Black Stone, raise your hand in its direction and say:

“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).

If possible, you may kiss or touch the Black Stone, but due to the large crowds, it is acceptable to simply gesture towards it while saying this phrase.

5. Start Circling the Kaaba Counterclockwise

After making the gesture or kissing the Black Stone, start your first circuit by walking around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction. Men are encouraged to walk briskly during the first three circuits and then walk at a normal pace for the remaining four.

6. Recite Duas and Dhikr

Throughout Tawaf, it is recommended to engage in the recitation of duas, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and verses from the Quran. While there are no specific prayers required during Tawaf, you can make personal supplications as you complete each circuit.

7. Complete Seven Circuits

Tawaf consists of seven complete circuits around the Kaaba. Each circuit begins and ends at the Black Stone. Keep track of the number of rounds you’ve completed, as you must finish all seven for Tawaf to be valid.

8. Conclude Tawaf with Prayer

Once you have completed all seven circuits, it is recommended to offer two units of prayer (rakat) behind the Maqam Ibrahim (the Station of Ibrahim). This is a place near the Kaaba where Prophet Ibrahim stood while building the structure. After offering prayer, you may drink water from the Zamzam well, which is also located within the Masjid al-Haram.

Performing Tawaf is a deeply spiritual experience that connects the pilgrim to Allah through devotion and unity. For those preparing for this journey, you can learn more about our Hajj & Umrah Packages 2024 for guidance and support on your pilgrimage.