Tawaf: A Complete Guide
Tawaf is seven circuits around the Kaaba, an act of worship that is part of Umrah and Hajj.
Conditions
Most scholars require wudu and a clean body and clothing for Tawaf. If you break wudu, renew it and, per the majority, resume your count. A woman in her period cannot perform it; she should consult a scholar.
Steps
- Begin level with the Black Stone, facing it. Touch or kiss it if easy; otherwise point with your right hand and say "Allahu akbar". Never push.
- Keep the Kaaba on your left. Hijr Ismail must be outside your path.
- Men, in the Tawaf of arrival, uncover the right shoulder (idtiba) and may walk briskly (raml) in the first three circuits if it can be done without harming others.
- Say any dhikr or dua. Between the Yemeni corner and the Black Stone, "Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah..." is recommended.
- After seven circuits, cover your shoulder, and pray two rak'ahs.
Counting
Use a counter, or count with a companion. If unsure, take the lower count.
Etiquette
Be gentle. Avoid prostrating or praying in the mataf area where it blocks others. Wheelchair users have designated routes.