Umrah is a sacred trip that is a dream for many Muslims around the globe. The importance of this act of worship is more than washing your sins away. Umrah gives the pilgrims a chance to connect with God Almighty and strengthen their faith. This trip includes two significant rituals which mark the completion of the Umrah journey. Tawaaf (circling the Kaaba) and Saii (walking in between the Safa and Marwa) are the rites of the pilgrimage. This blog will explore key facts about the Safa and Marwa that every worshipper must know.
Key Facts about Safa and Marwa
This section will delve into some essential facts about Safa and Marwa. Located in the boundaries of Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, these two hills are an important site in Islam. During Hajj or Umrah, Muslims walk in between the hills as a religious obligation. Understanding the importance of Safa and Marwa can help pilgrims appreciate the deeper meaning behind this sacred act. Here are five key facts every pilgrim should know about Safa and Marwa.
1. Symbols of Allah
The Safa and Marwa are considered to be the symbols of God Almighty. This is mentioned in Surah Baqarah verses as “Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs Umrah, there is no blame upon him for walking between them. And whoever volunteers good – then indeed, Allah is appreciative and knowing.”
The phrase symbols of Allah indicates that Safa and Marwa represent divine guidance. Walking in between these two hills is an act of devoting yourself fully to Allah. The worshippers must perform this ritual with true dedication to show their love for their Creator.
2. Remembrance of Hajar Struggle
The two hills and the act of walking in between remind Muslims of a vital Islamic event. Hajar (Peace be Upon Her), the wife of Prophet Abraham was left alone in a barren desert with her infant son Ismael. She ran in between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times in search of water for her little infant. Out of desperation, she prayed to God, which was answered right away. Near Ismael’s feet, the ground got struck, and a water spring started flowing- now known as Zam Zam. This miraculous event led to the establishment of life in Makkah. Today, every pilgrim performing Hajj or Umrah follows in Hajar’s footsteps, symbolising patience, trust in Allah, and perseverance.
3. Important Ritual
The hills serve as an important landmark for Muslims to perform the ritual of Saii. After performing Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), pilgrims proceed to Safa Mountain to begin this act. The ritual consists of walking back and forth between the two hills seven times. Pilgrims start at Safa, walk towards Marwa, and then return, completing one lap. The seventh round ends at Marwa. While Saii is a religious duty, it also teaches the pilgrims about remaining patient and the importance of never losing hope. Moreover, it preaches that Muslims rely on Allah Almighty only. It reminds them that God’s mercy is always near, just as He provided for Hajar and his son.
4. Short Distance
While the walk between the two hills seems daunting, the distance is quite short. The distance between Safa and Marwa is approximately 450 metres, making a full round trip approximately 3.15 kilometres. Unlike the old times, the pathway between the two hills is quite easy for the pilgrims. A part of these mountains is preserved within the Grand Mosque of Mecca. The area is well-lit, air-conditioned, and has smooth marble flooring, ensuring comfort for all pilgrims. There is also a special lane for those with mobility issues, allowing everyone to fulfil this important ritual with ease. Elderly pilgrims can access the wheelchair facility. Many Umrah Packages offer travellers this service to make their journey worry-free.
5. Combines Walking and Running
During Sa’i, pilgrims walk between Safa and Marwa, but there is a short section marked by green lights where men are encouraged to run. This follows the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and represents Hajar’s (peace be upon her) struggle when she ran while searching for water for her son, Ismael. Women do not need to run and can continue walking at a normal pace. This part of the ritual teaches an important lesson. Sometimes in life, we move forward slowly with patience, and other times, we need to push ourselves and make more effort. It reminds pilgrims that trusting Allah and working hard go together. Every step taken during Sa’i is a way of remembering that Allah helps those who keep faith and never give up.
Sum Up
This blog has discussed key facts about Safa and Marwa every pilgrim must know. Both Safa and Marwa are important landmarks in Islam, as they remind the Muslims about Hajar’s struggles about finding water for her son Ismael in the desert. These hills are regarded as the symbols of Allah, and thus it is vital for pilgrims to walk in between them during Umrah and Hajj. Are you looking for a way to head towards the holy cities? Contact Muslims Holy Travel to get customised Family Umrah Packages at an economical rate. Having more than 10 years of experience, we offer our customers a hassle-free journey and a memorable time.