Safa and Marwa: History, Significance & Lessons
Introduction to Safa and Marwa
Among the sacred symbols of Islam are the two hills, Safa and Marwa, located within the holy precincts of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Every year, millions of Muslims performing Hajj or Umrah walk back and forth between these two hills in a ritual known as Sa’i. This act is not just a physical walk but a powerful commemoration of faith, sacrifice, and reliance on Allah.
The Qur’an itself acknowledges the sanctity of Safa and Marwa in the following verse:
“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.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:158)
This verse underlines the importance of these hills as signs of Allah and confirms the obligation of performing Sa’i during Hajj and Umrah.
Historical Background of Safa and Marwa
The story of Safa and Marwa dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), his wife Hajar (RA), and their infant son Ismail (AS). When Ibrahim (AS) left Hajar (RA) and baby Ismail (AS) in the barren desert of Makkah by Allah’s command, Hajar (RA) found herself alone with no food or water. Out of desperation and motherly concern, she ran between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times in search of help.
On her seventh round, Allah responded to her unwavering faith and struggle. The Angel Jibreel (AS) appeared, striking the ground near baby Ismail (AS), and from it gushed forth the blessed Zamzam water. This miraculous water became a source of life for the family and eventually a cornerstone around which the city of Makkah flourished.
Thus, the ritual of Sa’i is a direct commemoration of Hajar’s (RA) devotion, perseverance, and complete trust in Allah’s mercy.
You also might like to read: The story of Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail
The Significance of Safa and Marwa in Islam
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Commemoration of Hajar’s Faith:
Sa’i symbolizes the struggle of Hajar (RA), reminding Muslims that trust in Allah, combined with effort, brings relief and blessings. -
Obligatory Part of Hajj and Umrah:
Sa’i between Safa and Marwa is a mandatory pillar of both Hajj and Umrah. Without completing it, the pilgrimage is incomplete. -
Spiritual Lessons of Patience and Tawakkul (Trust):
Walking between these hills teaches Muslims the values of persistence, patience, and reliance on Allah in times of difficulty. -
Equality in Worship:
The ritual shows that both men and women can set examples of faith. The act of Hajar (RA) is honored eternally, highlighting the high status of women in Islam.
Description of Safa and Marwa Today
Today, Safa and Marwa are enclosed within the expansion of Masjid al-Haram. They are connected by an air-conditioned gallery where pilgrims perform Sa’i in comfort. The distance between the two hills is about 450 meters, which makes the total journey of seven rounds approximately 3.15 kilometers.
Green lights mark the area where men are recommended to walk briskly, imitating the effort of Hajar (RA). Women, however, walk at their usual pace.
Despite modern facilities, the spirit of Sa’i remains unchanged: it is a humble act of devotion that connects Muslims with one of the earliest stories of faith in Islamic history.
Spiritual Lessons from Safa and Marwa
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Faith in Action: Hajar (RA) did not simply sit and wait for help; she took action while relying on Allah.
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Perseverance: Her seven rounds symbolize resilience in times of desperation.
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Divine Mercy: The emergence of Zamzam water is a reminder that Allah rewards sincerity and effort in ways beyond imagination.
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Unity of the Ummah: Muslims of all backgrounds perform this ritual together, reinforcing the bond of a single faith community.
Safa and Marwa in the Light of Hadith
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of Sa’i. In one hadith, he said:
“Perform Sa’i, for Allah has decreed Sa’i upon you.”
(Sunan al-Kubra al-Bayhaqi)
This statement establishes Sa’i as a divine command, not just a symbolic act.
How Sa’i is Performed
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After completing Tawaf around the Kaaba, pilgrims proceed to Safa Hill.
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Facing the Kaaba, they make du’a and declare the Talbiyah or personal supplications.
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They walk towards Marwa Hill.
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Upon reaching Marwa, they again raise their hands, make du’a, and then return to Safa.
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This process is repeated until seven laps are completed, ending at Marwa.
Connecting Safa and Marwa to Our Lives
The story of Safa and Marwa isn’t limited to the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. It is a timeless lesson for Muslims in everyday struggles:
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When faced with trials, combine faith with effort.
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Never despair of Allah’s mercy.
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Hardship often precedes relief.
Learning the Rituals with Online Quran Tutoring
For Muslims who aspire to perform Hajj or Umrah, it is essential to learn the correct rituals beforehand. At our online Quran academy, we not only teach Quran recitation, Tafseer, and memorization, but also provide guidance on Islamic practices such as Hajj, Umrah, and daily worship.
With qualified male and female tutors from Egypt and Pakistan, we offer one-on-one classes tailored to your needs. Whether you want to perfect your Quran recitation or understand the significance of rituals like Sa’i, our tutors are here to guide you with care and patience.
Common FAQs About Safa and Marwa
Q1: Why are Safa and Marwa important in Islam?
Safa and Marwa symbolize the struggle of Hajar (RA) and remind Muslims of faith, patience, and reliance on Allah. They are part of the obligatory Sa’i in Hajj and Umrah.
Q2: How many times do pilgrims walk between Safa and Marwa?
Pilgrims walk seven times, starting at Safa and ending at Marwa.
Q3: What is the distance between Safa and Marwa?
The distance is approximately 450 meters one way which makes seven rounds about 3.15 kilometers.
Q4: Is Sa’i obligatory for both Hajj and Umrah?
Yes, Sa’i is a mandatory pillar in both Hajj and Umrah. Without it, the pilgrimage is incomplete.
Q5: Can women walk briskly between Safa and Marwa?
No, brisk walking in the marked area is recommended only for men. Women walk at their normal pace.
Q6: What lessons can we learn from Hajar’s (RA) struggle?
Her struggle teaches Muslims perseverance, reliance on Allah, and taking action in times of difficulty.
Q7: Are Safa and Marwa inside the Masjid al-Haram?
Yes, they are enclosed within the mosque’s structure, connected by a long gallery for pilgrims to perform Sa’i.
Q8: What is Zamzam water, and how is it connected to Safa and Marwa?
Zamzam water is the blessed spring that emerged after Hajar’s (RA) struggle between Safa and Marwa. It continues to flow to this day.
Conclusion
Safa and Marwa are more than just two hills in Makkah. They are eternal symbols of faith, struggle, and divine mercy. The story of Hajar (RA) continues to inspire Muslims to trust Allah in difficult times and strive with patience. Through Sa’i, Muslims embody these values and make it one of the most profound rituals of Hajj and Umrah.
Whether you are preparing for your pilgrimage or simply reflecting on its lessons, understanding Safa and Marwa strengthens your connection with Islamic history and deepens your spiritual journey.
