One of the main principles of the yearly Hajj trip, which Muslims are required to participate in if they are financially and physically capable, is Tawaf al-Ifadah. As the end of the trip, this specific tawaf, or walking around of the Kaaba, is significant in the Hajj rituals. Understanding the significance, timeline, and religious meaning of Tawaf al-Ifadah is vital for pilgrims who want to appropriately perform their duties as Muslims.
Statement of Tawaf al-Ifadah: Importance
Tawaf al-Ifadah, sometimes referred to as Tawaf az-Ziyarah or Tawaf al-Hajj, is considered as one of the main principles of the Hajj. The journey of pilgrimage becomes invalid if this tawaf is missed, highlighting its significance. "Ifadah" means "traveling," referring to the pilgrims' motion as they make their way towards the Kaaba following the end of the rituals at Arafat and Muzdalifah. This tawaf represents the pilgrim's journey back to the Sacred House of Allah following their time spend praying for forgiveness and mercy on the Arafat grounds.
Tawaf al-Ifadah basically signifies a pilgrim's renewed devotion to Allah. It strengthens the bond between the worshipper and their Creator and acts as a spiritual purification. Through this act of worship, pilgrims confirm their faith and show that they are faithful to Allah, making their Hajj complete.
When Tawaf al-Ifahdah happens
After pilgrims have finished their duties at Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina, they perform Tawaf al-Ifadah. To be more specific, it takes place on Eid al-Adha, the 10th day of Dhul-Hijah. On the 11th, 12th, or 13th of Dhul-Hijah, which are the following days of Tashreeq, pilgrims will still carry out the rituals if needed. It is advised to perform out the ritulas at Mina as soon as possible, however pilgrims are free to adjust their schedules according to the crowd of people and their own personal requirements.
Pilgrims are required to be in ihram, the holy clothing that represents humility and purity, when performing Tawaf al-Ifadah. They are, however, allowed to completely remove the ihram once the Jamrat is fully stoned and has completed the Tahallul ritual, which involves shaving or trimming their hair. This means some ihram prohibitions—like dressing normally and avoiding from perfume—are removed. They can completely remove their ihram and resume normal activities after performing Tawaf al-Ifadah.
The Twaf al-Ifadah Rituals
There are a few specific stages involved in performing Tawaf al-Ifadah, which need to be done carefully and with dedication. Below is a summary of the main rituals:
- Niyyah (Intention): The pilgrim must sincerely desire to their hearts to do Tawaf al-Ifadah only for Allah's benefit before starting. This niyyah guarantees that the tawaf has been carried out as an act of worship and matches the pilgrim's actions with their spiritual goal.
- Arriving at the Sacred Mosque: The pilgrim must perform the Talbiyah prayer, which indicates that they are prepared to follow Allah's offer to make the pilgrimage, when they enter Masjid al-Haram. They should say a prayer of gratitude for being in the care of the Sacred House as they get closer to the Kaaba.
- Opening the Tawaf: Tawaf al-Ifadah is performed by completing seven full counterclockwise circles around the Kaaba. The Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), in the corner of the Kaaba, is where the tawaf starts. As a sign of devotion, pilgrims should, if at all possible, give the Black Stone a soft touch or a kiss. If the people stop them from doing so, they may gesture to it and say the words "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar" (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
- The circumambulation: During the seven circles, travelers should keep their attention on Allah, repeated prayers and reflecting His beauty and kindness. During tawaf, travelers are free to say any dhikr (remembrance of Allah) or private requests they choose. No particular prayers are necessary.
- Ramal: The first three tawaf circles are usually completed by male pilgrims with a gentle walking motion known as ramal. This custom is an inspiration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and represents the energy and strength of the Muslim ummah (community).
- Drinking Zamzam Water: It is advised to drink of the blessed Zamzam water, which is offered at specific locations throughout the mosque, following the end of the prayer. This act represents the physical and mental health that Allah gives His slaves.
- Sa'i between Safa and Marwah: Those who have not yet completed Sa'i during their Hajj are required to do so following Tawaf al-Ifadah. In celebration of Prophet Ibrahim's wife Hajar's seven-kilometer trek between the hills of Safa and Marwah, Sa'i honors her son Ismail's quest for water. This act represents trust, determination, and faith in Allah throughout times of difficulty.
Principles in Spirituality from Tawaf al-Ifadah
Tawaf al-Ifadah is a very spiritual practice that involves more than just circling the Kaaba. The fact that the Kaaba is in constant movement provides a reminder to Muslims that Allah should be their main concern. In the same way that pilgrims’ emotions and thoughts should center around remembering Allah in every area of their lives, as the Hajj Umrah packages provide, should also cinter around the Kaaba.
Since seven is frequently associated with unity in Islamic tradition, the seven circuits stand for the completion and perfection of one's faith. Every step of the tawaf offers the pilgrim a chance to pause and consider their connection with Allah, asking for His kindness, forgiveness, and direction.
The act of tawaf also highlights the unity of the Muslims community. No matter their colour, nationality, or social standing, pilgrims from all over the world join in a single act of prayer, representing the equality and unity that Islam promotes. This unity acts as an important reminder of the shared faith and purpose of the entire global community.
Conclusion
One of the most important rituals of the Hajj, Tawaf al-Ifadah, represents unity, dedication, and spiritual regrowth. By performing this tawaf, travellers fulfil one of the fundamental requirements of the Hajj, establishing their connection to Allah and their religion. Even after the journey is over, the spiritual lessons of Tawaf al-Ifadah—such as the importance of Allah in one's life and the unity of the Muslim ummah—remain important. Tawaf al-Ifadah is an important act of worship that greatly impacts the hearts and souls of people who participate on this holy journey.