Ritual site
Safa and Marwa
The two hills between which the sa'i is performed; they recall Hajar's search for water and are part of Umrah.
History
The Quran calls Safa and Marwa "among the symbols of Allah" and states that there is no sin in going between them (2:158). According to tradition, the verse was revealed because some Muslims hesitated, since idols had once stood on the hills.
According to Ibn Abbas (Sahih al-Bukhari 3364), Ibrahim left Hajar and Ismail in this valley; in thirst Hajar ran seven times between the hills, and God caused the Zamzam spring to flow. Today the hills have been levelled and the route lies inside the Masjid al-Haram.
Visiting tips
The sa'i route is air-conditioned and covered; lifts and ramps make it accessible for people with disabilities and older visitors. In the marked green section men walk briskly; this applies to men only.
At busy times the sa'i can take a long time. Take short breaks in the heat and keep water with you.
Etiquette
During sa'i, dua and dhikr are welcome, without disturbing others. Facing the qibla on Safa and raising the hands is reported in Sahih Muslim 1218. Do not push in the crowd and make way for older people.
Do not pressure others to run or hurry; sa'i is an act of worship made of walking, dhikr and dua.
Location
Sources
- Quran 2:158
- Sahih al-Bukhari 3364
- Sahih Muslim 1218
- Ibn Kathir, Tafsir (commentary on 2:158)