Every Muslim must be aware of their duties regarding the types of Tawaf in Islam. These duties must be fulfilled responsibly and without carelessness. There are 5 important types of Tawaf in Islam that are performed during Hajj and Umrah.
This ritual in Islam suggests circling around the Kaaba in the holy mosque 7 times. Doing so ensures a closer connection with the creator, Allah. There is no specific time to perform Tawaf. One can perform this ritual during Hajj, Umrah, or any other time.
Define Tawaf in Islam
Tawaf is an important ritual in Islam performed during Hajj and Umrah journeys. The ritual holds deep significance in Islam. In this ritual, the pilgrims encircle the holy Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. By doing this ritual, the pilgrims are showing devotion to their worship towards Allah. Adding on, the Tawaf ritual is an imitation of angels who rotate around Allah’s throne. Devotees seek forgiveness from the almighty for their sins in this ritual as they define Tawaf in Islam.
Tawaf History in Islam
Tawaf is an integral ritual of Islam that is performed during the sacred journeys of Hajj and Umrah. Tawaf’s history in Islam dates back to the pre-historic era and it is deeply connected with the Islamic traditions.
Early Origins of Tawaf History in Islam
In the pre-Islamic period, Kaaba was a known pilgrimage in Mecca for Arab tribes. Before the rise of Islam, there were various idols of deities placed in the Kaaba. Thus, tawaf was performed in the devotion of these deities to pray for fate, fortune, fertility, and more.
According to Islamic traditions, the origins of Tawaf were founded by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael). It is believed that they have built the Kaaba and called it the house of worship which is dedicated to Allah, the one true God.
Islamic Era
In the Islamic era, Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, cleansed the Kaaba and removed all the idols. He re-established Tawaf and the worship of only one God, Allah. Then he and his companions performed Tawaf and encircled the Kaaba seven times. As an act of devotion, they recited prayers while performing Tawaf.
The Tawaf rituals are prescribed in the holy book Quran. One should consider the guidelines prescribed in the holy book. Performing Tawaf rituals should be done according to the Quran and the prophet Muhammad’s guidance.
Evolution of Tawaf and its Significance
The Tawaf history in Islam has evolved over the centuries. As the Islamic religion spread, the practices of the ritual evolved. However, it is still an integral ritual of the Hajj pilgrimage. Every year, tons of Muslims are determined to fulfil their duties of performing Tawaf while following traditions based on Islamic teachings.
Tawaf has a spiritual significance that symbolises unity, obedience to Allah, and a spiritual journey. The ritual requires anti-clockwise circling around Kaaba 7 times, beginning and ending at the Black Stone. Throughout the past, Muslims worldwide have performed Tawaf as an expression of faith and devotion.
Read Also: History Of Kabba
Types of Tawaf in Islam
There are 5 major types of Tawaf in Islam that are done with a different purpose. These types are supposedly done at various times but with the same devotion. The pilgrims should entirely focus on Allah and remember his importance in life.
1- Tawaf al-Qudum
Tawaf al-Qudum is called the arrival Tawaf that one should perform upon entering the Masjid al-Haram. These types of Tawaf in Islam are meant to greet Kaaba and honour the house of Allah.
2- Tawaf al-Ifadah
Tawaf al-Ifadah is known as the Tawaf of Visit. All the pilgrims are obligated to perform these types of Tawaf in Islam after wearing Ihram clothes. After standing at Afarat during Hajj, this Tawaf is considered to be the most important ritual as it symbolises purification.
3- Tawaf al-Wada
Tawaf al-Wada is called the farewell Tawaf. After the compilation of Hajj or Umrah, the pilgrims perform these types of Tawaf in Islam when leaving Mecca as the act of farewell.
4- Tawaf al-Umrah
The Tawaf al-Umrah is an essential part of the Umrah pilgrimage. It is similar to the Tawaf al-Qudum but is performed with a different intention.
5- Nafl Tawaf
The Nafi Tawaf is called the voluntary Tawaf. The rituals in these types of Tawaf in Islam are not compulsory. One can perform this voluntarily to seek closeness to Allah and for spiritual rewards.
How to Perform the Rituals in Tawaf?
The type of Tawaf in Islam requires some specific rituals. Every pilgrim must follow these rituals before starting circumambulations around the Kaaba.
1- Enter the State of Ihram
Ihram is a state of purity where pilgrims must cleanse their bodies and souls before entering the pilgrimage. Men should wrap their waists and cover their bodies with unstitched white cloth pieces. Whereas, women are required to wear modest and clean clothing appropriate in Islam but should not cover their heads and hands. Then the pilgrims should make an intention (Niyyah) in their heart that they are performing Tawaf solely for Allah.
2- Start and End the Ritual at the Black Stone
In this ritual, the pilgrim should start circling around Kaaba. Begin at the corner where the Black Stone is located. While performing this ritual, make sure you are facing towards the Kaaba.
3- Make Sure to Keep the Kaaba on your Left
Circling around the Kaaba should be done only in a counterclockwise direction. When starting this ritual, make sure that the Kaaba is on your left side.
4- Complete Seven Rounds Around Kaaba
Circle around the holy Kaaba seven times. Both the starting and ending of your circles should be at the Black Stone. Before beginning each round, touch or kiss the black stone. This ritual is known as Istilam. If touching is not possible due to the crowds, you can simply point your hand towards the stone as a gesture.
5- Recite Two Rakaah Prayers
Once you have completed the seven circles, go to an appropriate spot in the mosque or Maqam Ibrahim, i.e., the station of Abraham, and recite two Rakaah prayers.
Read Also: Obligation of Hajj and Umrah
Purpose of Tawaf in Islam
Different types of Tawaf in Islam symbolise different purposes. All of them are essential for the well-being of humanity and for constructing belief in Allah, the Almighty.
Devotion for Allah
Tawaf is an expression of showing devotion to Allah. The ritual is performed in the holy Kaaba, which is the house of Allah on earth. Performing Tawaf gives the devotees a chance to feel closeness with the almighty and enhance one’s spiritual beliefs.
Renewal of Faith and Self-purification
Renewal of faith is the main purpose of Tawaf in Islam. In this ritual, the pilgrims pray around the holy Kaaba and focus on Allah entirely. They reform their belief that there is only one God. Simultaneously, they seek forgiveness for their sins, seek guidance, and blessings, and cleanse their soul.
Remembering Allah and His Importance in Life
Tawaf represents that the universe revolves around Allah, the creator. Always remember that life is important and should be dedicated to the obedience of Allah.
Formation of Unity and Equality
The purpose of Tawaf in Islam is to not discriminate between people. Muslims from all over the world gather in this sacred place to perform the rituals. Tawaf promotes brotherhood and unity where no race, gender, nationality, or social status matters.
Following the Traditions Established by Prophet Muhammad
Tawaf is an integral tradition of Islam that was established by Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Muhammad. Following the rituals connects Muslims with the history of Islam holding deep significance over the years.
Benefits of Tawaf in Islam
There are many key benefits of Tawaf in Islam that ensure one’s emotional, spiritual, and communal growth. These benefits strengthen Islam and promote unity among the Muslim religion.
Strengthening Faith in Remembrance of Allah
Prophet Muhammad’s guidance suggests that Tawaf is performed in remembrance of Allah. Performing the sacred ritual strengthens one’s faith in Allah’s greatness and Islam. Tawaf encourages Muslims to feel a stronger connection with God and be devoted towards him.
Spiritual Purification and Soul Cleansing
Spiritual purification is one of the greatest benefits of Tawaf in Islam as the pilgrims seek Allah’s forgiveness for their sins. They want to cleanse their souls in order to live a better life by following the right ways.
Symbol of Unity and Equality
Regardless of the pilgrim’s race, background, social status, and culture, everyone is equal before Allah. Tawaf symbolises unity and brotherhood where everyone gathers together to pray in front of a common God. It also ensures equality as millions of people wear simple clothes and pray together.
Connection with the Heritage of Islam
Feeling the connection with the heritage of Islam is one of the major benefits of Tawaf in Islam. Pilgrims get to know about the history of the holy Kaaba and the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Muhammad. They get a better and deeper understanding of the significance of the rituals.
Physical Well-being
Tawaf is an act that holds the significance of physical well-being. One has to put physical effort into completing the rituals in the types of Tawaf in Islam. The whole body is engaged in this ritual as it requires lots of walking and physical endurance. It is a reminder for people to try to be physically healthy to fulfil their spiritual intentions.
