Safa and Marwa are two small hills located near the holy Kaaba in Makkah. They are an important part of the Islamic history. These hills are connected to the bigger mountains named Abu Qubays and Qaiqan. During the pilgrimage, pilgrims walk back and forth between these two hills seven times. This ritual is known as Sa’i. It reminds Muslims about the struggle of Bibi Hajar (AS). She ran between Safa and Marwa searching for water for her thirsty baby, the Prophet Ismail (AS). Her strong love and faith for the child were rewarded by Allah Almighty with the Zamzam well. Today, all Muslims perform the spiritual act of Hajj and Umrah to complete this ritual in her honor. Are you heading to Saudi Arabia for an Umrah trip in 2025?
It is an ideal choice to invest in luxury Umrah packages for a smooth pilgrimage. In this blog post, you will delve into the religious and historical importance of Safa and Marwa in Islam.
Safa And Marwa – An Act of Motherly Love
The story of these hills is about Bibi Hajar (AS) who was the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Allah blessed them with a baby, the Prophet Ismail (AS) after a long period. One day Allah Almighty commanded Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) to leave his wife along with his son in the desert. He followed the order and did the same. Bibi Hajar (AS) was initially worried. When she came to know that it was Allah Almighty’s will, she didn’t hesitate to comply. Before leaving them alone in the desert with some water skin and dates, the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) recited the following supplication;
رَّبَّنَا إِنِّي أَسْكَنتُ مِن ذُرِّيَّتِي بِوَادٍ غَيْرِ ذِي زَرْعٍ عِندَ بَيْتِكَ الْمُحَرَّمِ رَبَّنَا لِيُقِيمُوا الصَّلَاةَ فَاجْعَلْ أَفْئِدَةً مِّنَ النَّاسِ تَهْوِي إِلَيْهِمْ وَارْزُقْهُم مِّنَ الثَّمَرَاتِ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَشْكُرُونَ
“Our Lord, I have settled some of my descendants in an uncultivated valley near your sacred House, our Lord, that they may establish prayer. So make hearts among the people incline toward them and provide for them from the fruits that they might be grateful.” [Surah Ibrahim, 14:37]
Soon everything finished. Hazrat Ismail (AS) became very thirsty and she was left with no milk to feed him. She started climbing the hill of Safa in desperation to search for water or help but found nothing. Bibi Hajar (AS) then ran to Marwa and kept running at the hills back and forth seven times in the extreme heat of the sun. She was scared and tired but kept praying to Allah Almighty. Seeing her great struggle, Allah sent Hazrat Jibril (AS). He stuck the ground with his wing and the water started flowing. This led to the famous Zamzam well. Bibi Hajar (AS) drank water from that well and gave it to her baby. Moreover, in order to remember her faith and struggle, Muslims walk seven times between these two hills during their Umrah or Hajj journey.
Spiritual Significance of Safa And Marwa in Islam
Running between the two hills of Safa and Marwa is a significant part of Hajj and Umrah. This act holds great importance in Islam. It was performed by the holy Prophet PBUH and his companions during his farewell Hajj. Hazrat Muhammad PBUH once said that if Bibi Hajar (AS) had not tried to collect the water from Zamzam well, it would have flowed freely on earth. The whole story teaches Muslims about devotion, patience, and trust in Allah. When pilgrims do Sa’i during the pilgrimage, they remember Bibi Hajar’s love for her son. Not only this but it also reminds us of her belief in Allah. This makes the act of Sa’i an essential act during the journey.
There are many things to remember and perform during the pilgrimage. To make your trip memorable, opt for 5 star Umrah packages. To do Sa’i, pilgrims usually start at the Safa hill after making the intention. Then, they walk towards Marwa while remembering Allah. Women walk while men run lightly between two green markers. Muslims can make duas and also ask Allah Almighty’s blessings throughout. The Sa’i ends at the Marwa hill while completing the ritual.
Top Attractions in Makkah Near Safa and Marwa
While Safa and Marwa are mandatory for the pilgrimage, Makkah offers a lot more than sacred rituals. The very famous attractions in Makkah near Safa and Marwa you must visit include;
The Kaaba
The Kaaba is a holy place inside the Grand Mosque in Makkah where pilgrims pray. During Umrah or Hajj, Muslims walk around this sacred place seven times to worship Allah Almighty.
Masjid-Al-Haram
Another attraction to visit in Makkah is Masjid-al-Haram. It is the world’s largest mosque and includes the two hills of Safa and Marwa. It has beautiful architecture and gives a peaceful feeling to every Muslim. After Sa’i, you must take time and see its calming beauty and holiness.
Zamzam Well
Be sure to visit the Zamzam Well near the holy Kaaba during your pilgrimage. This water comes from the story of Safa and Marwa. Pilgrims drink it, believing it brings blessings and healing.
Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower
This tall building is located near the Grand Mosque. It has so many shops, a hotel, and a museum inside. From the top, pilgrims can enjoy a breathtaking view of the holy city of Makkah.
Concluding Remarks
Safa and Marwa are not just simple hills. They symbolize sacrifice, faith, and divine mercy. The story of Bibi Hajar (AS) is a timeless lesson. It teaches us to trust Allah Almighty’s wisdom, no matter how difficult the situation gets. When pilgrims perform the act of Sa’i during the pilgrimage, they relive this amazing history. They renew their belief in Allah’s blessings and guidance. By understanding the significance of Safa and Marwa in Islam, Muslims can deepen their spiritual connection. They appreciate the sacrifices of those who came before them. Make your pilgrimage hassle-free with all-inclusive Umrah packages. May Allah grant every believer the chance to perform Umrah and Hajj and experience the religious journey of Safa and Marwa!
