The Basics Type of Tawaf and Sa’ay

Today we discuss the Basics Type of Tawaf and Sai

In a previous blog, we talked you through Ihram, the first stage of your Hajj. There are many stages you will pass through during the course of your Hajj, and the second is the tawaf and sai. We will talk you through everything you need to know about this stage. We are ensuring that you feel completely prepared for your upcoming pilgrimage.

In a previous blog, we talked you through Ihram, the first stage of your Hajj. There are many stages you will pass through during the course of your Hajj, and the tawaf and sai. In this blog, we will talk you through everything you need to know about this stage, ensuring that you feel completely prepared for your upcoming pilgrimage. Here are some Basics Type of Tawaf and Sai.

What is Tawaf

Tawaf involves walking seven times around the Kaaba, the most sacred location in Islam, in an anti-clockwise direction. Upon your arrival at Masjid al-Haram, you will perform a welcome tawaf, which is also involved in Umrah.

Pilgrims will walk a path around the Kaaba which includes Hateem, which is the name of an area north of the Kaaba. When beginning the circuit around the Kaaba, pilgrims are to kiss or touch the Black Stone (Hajar Al-Aswad). However, if this is not possible then pilgrims may point towards the stone instead.

Although eating is not permitted, the drinking of water is allowed to prevent dehydration. Men are encouraged to perform the first three circuits at a faster pace and the following four at a more leisurely pace.

Traditionally, the tawaf was performed on the ground level. However, it is now also performed on the first floor and roof of Masjid al-Haram due to large crowds. The completion of the tawaf is followed by Rakaat prayers in the Place of Abraham, or if this is not possible due to crowding, anywhere within Masjid al-Haram.

What is Sai (Sa’ay)

Sai follows the tawaf and involves either running or walking seven times between the hills of Safah and Marwah. Although traditionally the route was in the open air, it is now enclosed by the Masjid al-Haram.

Pilgrims are advised to walk the circuit, although those who want to run are permitted to do so in a short section of the circuit, which is marked by green pillars. A lane of the circuit is also reserved for the elderly and the disabled.

Following the sai, male pilgrims are to shave their heads, with female pilgrims typically clipping a section of their hair. The end of the sai also marks the end of the ihram restrictions.

We hope that you found this information helpful in your preparation for the upcoming Hajj. If you are interested in Hajj packages, Qibla Travels offer a variety of quality packages designed to cater to your every need. Contact us today on 020 8558 4848.