Introduction: Tawaf Duas
Tawaf is one of the most significant and sacred rituals of Umrah, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah. Derived from the Arabic word “tawafa,” which means “to go around,” Tawaf involves circumambulating the Kaaba, the House of Allah, seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. This act of devotion holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims around the world and symbolizes unity, humility, and submission to the will of Allah. Tawaf is a profound expression of faith and an opportunity for believers to connect deeply with their Creator.
Understanding the Ritual & Guide To Prayer Of Tawaf
The ritual of Tawaf is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and dates back to the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It commemorates the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael), who were commanded by Allah to construct the Kaaba as the first house of worship. Tawaf represents the unity of Muslims from all corners of the globe, coming together to perform this sacred act in the holiest city of Islam. It serves as a reminder of the equality and brotherhood among believers, transcending geographical, racial, and social boundaries.
Step-by-Step Guide
Performing Tawaf requires adherence to specific steps and etiquettes. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through this divine ritual.
1. Entering the State of Ihram: Before performing Tawaf, one must enter the state of Ihram, a state of purity and consecration. This involves wearing the prescribed garments and reciting the intention to commence the pilgrimage.
2. Approaching the Kaaba: As you enter the Masjid al-Haram, the sacred mosque containing the Kaaba, raise your hands and recite the Takbeer, proclaiming the greatness of Allah. Fix your gaze upon the Kaaba, the focal point of your devotion.
3. Istilam of the Black Stone: Upon reaching the Black Stone, located at one corner of the Kaaba, touch or kiss it if possible, while reciting the supplication:
“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar, Allahumma iman bika wa tasdiqan bi kitabika wa wafa’an bi ‘ahdika wa ittiba’a l-rasula wa sunnatanabiyyika Muhammadin sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.”
4. Begin the Circumambulation: Start the first circle of Tawaf by moving in an anti-clockwise direction around the Kaaba. Maintain a steady pace and keep your focus on the Kaaba. It is recommended to recite the Talbiyah.
5. Maqam Ibrahim: After completing the first three circles, approach Maqam Ibrahim, the stone on which Prophet Ibrahim stood while constructing the Kaaba. Recite the supplication:
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil ‘akhirati hasanatan waqina ‘adhaban-nar.”
6. Completing the Circles of Tawaf: Resume the remaining four circles of Tawaf, reciting the Talbiyah and supplicating to Allah for His blessings, forgiveness, and guidance.
7. Multazam and Zamzam: After completing the seven circles, proceed towards the Multazam, the area between the Black Stone and the door of the Kaaba. It is a place of special supplication. Drink from the blessed well of Zamzam and make heartfelt prayers for yourself, your loved ones, and the entire Muslim Ummah.
8. Sai: Following Tawaf, perform Sai, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. This act commemorates the search of Hajar (Hagar), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, for water for her son Ismail.
By following these steps, you can perform with sincerity and devotion, seeking the pleasure and closeness of Allah.
Essential Duas: Their Significance and Recitation
Reciting duas (supplications) during Tawaf adds a spiritual dimension to the act and enhances the connection with Allah. These duas are powerful invocations, expressing our deepest desires, seeking forgiveness, and beseeching divine blessings. Each circle of Tawaf presents a unique opportunity to recite specific duas, which hold great significance. Let us explore the essential duas for each circle.
1- Duas for the First Circle
The first circle of Tawaf symbolizes the beginning of the spiritual journey and sets the tone for the rest of the ritual. During this circle, it is recommended to recite the following dua.
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil ‘akhirati hasanatan waqina ‘adhaban-nar.”
Translation: “Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
This dua encompasses our worldly needs, seeking both physical and spiritual goodness, as well as seeking protection from the punishment of Hellfire.
2- Duas for the Second Circle
As we progress to the second circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
“Allahumma ighfir li dhanbi wa wassi’ li fi dari wa barik li fi rizqi.”
Translation: “O Allah, forgive my sins, expand my dwelling, and bless my provisions.”
This dua seeks forgiveness for our sins, asking Allah to broaden our living conditions and bless our sustenance.
3- Duas for the Third Circle
In the third circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘afiyata fid-dunya wal-akhirah.”
Translation: “O Allah, I ask You for well-being in this world and the Hereafter.”
This dua implores Allah to grant us overall well-being, encompassing both our present life and the life to come.
4- Duas for the Fourth Circle
As we complete the fourth circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka al-jannah, wa a’udhu bika min an-nar.”
Translation: “O Allah, I ask You for Paradise and seek refuge in You from the Fire.”
This dua expresses our deepest desire for Paradise and seeks refuge in Allah from the torment of Hellfire.
5- Duas for the Fifth Circle
During the fifth circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka hubbak wa hubba man yuhibbuk, wa hubba ‘amalin yuqarribuni ila hubbik.”
Translation: “O Allah, I ask You for Your love and the love of those who love You, and the love of deeds that will bring me closer to Your love.”
This dua seeks the love of Allah, the love of those who love Him, and the love of actions that draw us closer to His love.
6- Duas for the Sixth Circle
As we enter the sixth circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘ilm-an nafi’a, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan.”
Translation: “O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, wholesome sustenance, and accepted deeds.”
This dua seeks beneficial knowledge, pure provisions, and accepted acts of worship from Allah.
7- Duas for the Final Circle
In the final circle of Tawaf, we can recite the following dua:
Allahumma ‘indi afwajan min dhunūb wa afwajan min khataya; wa ‘indaka afwajun min rahmatin wa afwajun min maghfirati; ya manis-tajaba li-abghadhi khalqihi idh qala andhirni ila yawmi yub‘athūna, istajib li. Allahumma qanni‘ni bima razaq-tani, wa barik li fima ataytani”.
Translation: “O Allah, I have oceans of sins and oceans of faults with me; and with You are oceans of mercy and oceans of forgiveness; O You who responds to the worst of His creation when he says, ‘Delay me until the Day they are resurrected’, respond to me. O Allah, make me content with what You have provided for me, and bless me in what You have given me.”
This dua encompasses our desires for goodness in both this life and the life to come, seeking protection from the torment of Hellfire.
By reciting these essential duas during each circle of Tawaf, we invoke Allah’s blessings, seek His forgiveness, and express our deepest aspirations.
Additional Tips and Etiquettes for Tawaf
To enhance your experience of Tawaf, here are some additional tips and etiquettes to keep in mind:
- Maintain Humility: Approach Tawaf with utmost humility and sincerity, recognizing your insignificance before the Almighty.
- Be Mindful of Others: Respect the personal space of fellow pilgrims while performing Tawaf, ensuring a harmonious atmosphere.
- Maintain Ritual Purity: Perform ablution (Wudu) before undertaking Tawaf and ensure you are in a state of purity throughout the entire ritual.
- Avoid Distractions: During Tawaf, strive to remain focused on your connection with Allah, avoiding unnecessary conversations or distractions.
- Pray for Others: While supplicating for yourself, remember to include prayers for your loved ones, the Muslim Ummah, and the entire humanity.
- Recite the Quran: If possible, recite verses from the Quran during Tawaf, deepening your spiritual connection with the words of Allah.
Conclusion: The Spiritual Journey of Tawaf
Tawaf is a profound spiritual journey that allows Muslims to experience a deep connection with Allah and seek His blessings. As we circumambulate the Kaaba, we are reminded of the unity and equality of the Muslim Ummah. The essential duas for each circle of Tawaf provide a means to express our desires and seek divine intervention in our lives. By performing Tawaf with sincerity, humility, and devotion, we can embark on a transformative journey of faith, seeking Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness. May Allah accept our Tawaf and grant us the strength to perform this sacred ritual with utmost reverence and devotion.
FAQ: Tawaf Dua
What is Tawaf?
Tawaf is the act of circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction, performed by Muslims during Hajj and Umrah. It is an essential ritual that signifies the unity of the believers in the worship of the One God.
What is a Dua?
A Dua is a supplication or prayer in Islam. Muslims make Dua to seek Allah’s help, guidance, and blessings in various aspects of their lives.
What is the significance of making Dua during Tawaf?
Making Dua during Tawaf holds special significance as it is performed in the holy precincts of the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. It is an opportunity for Muslims to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and blessings intensely and personally.
Are there specific Duas to recite during Tawaf?
While there are no obligatory Duas that must be recited during Tawaf, there are recommended supplications and phrases that many Muslims choose to recite. Here are some commonly recited Duas and phrases:
- Starting Tawaf:
- “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.”
- Translation: “In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.”
- Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone:
- “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina adhaban-nar.”
- Translation: “Our Lord, give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” (Quran 2:201)
- General Supplications:
- “Subhan Allah, walhamdulillah, wa la ilaha illallah, wa Allahu Akbar.”
- Translation: “Glory be to Allah, all praise be to Allah, there is no deity but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest.”
Can I make my own Dua during Tawaf?
Yes, you can make your own Dua in any language. Personal supplications are highly encouraged as they reflect the individual’s heartfelt prayers and needs. You can ask Allah for anything you desire, whether it pertains to this world or the Hereafter.
Is there any particular etiquette to follow while making Dua during Tawaf?
Yes, there are a few etiquettes to keep in mind while making Dua during Tawaf:
- Sincerity and Humility: Make Dua with a sincere heart and humble demeanor.
- Facing the Kaaba: Although you are circumambulating, your focus should remain on the sanctity of the Kaaba.
- Starting with Praise and Sending Blessings: Begin your Dua by praising Allah and sending blessings on the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Avoiding Distractions: Try to remain focused and avoid engaging in unnecessary conversations.
Are there any specific times or manners to make Dua for it to be accepted?
While Duas made during Tawaf are special, there are other moments when supplications are more likely to be accepted, such as:
- During the last third of the night.
- Between the Adhan and Iqamah.
- After obligatory prayers.
- On Fridays, especially the last hour before Maghrib.
- While fasting, especially just before breaking the fast.
When making Dua, it is recommended to:
- Face the Qibla if possible.
- Be in a state of Wudu (ablution).
- Raise your hands in supplication.
- Pray with humility and sincerity.
By following these guidelines and incorporating personal and recommended Duas, Muslims aim to make their Tawaf a deeply spiritual and enriching experience, seeking closeness to Allah and His blessings.
