Walking between Safa and Marwa is a prominent ritual of Umrah. It has great historical, spiritual, and emotional significance for the Muslims. We cannot deny that it is a powerful part of both pilgrimages. All the pilgrims are required to head over to the sacred hills of Safa and Marwa for Sa’i after performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba. This also piques the pilgrims’ curiosity about the distance between Safa and Marwa, how to perform the ritual, and its significance.
A Beginner-Friendly Explanation of Sa’ee
Just like you, thousands of UK Muslims go on pilgrimage every year. Before they embark on this spiritual retreat, they ensure they learn about all pilgrimage rituals, including Sa’i. So, if you are planning to undertake the pilgrimage soon, learning about Sa’i is crucial for you. Therefore, as you search for the best Umrah Packages, take this pre-pilgrimage time to learn about Umrah rituals. We are here to tell you everything about Sa’i to make your journey a lot easier and to motivate you for your spiritual retreat.
The Spiritual Story Behind Sa’i
You might be here to know about the distance between Safa and Marwah. But before we explain it, it is essential to understand the spiritual story behind Sa’i. You must know why you perform this ritual to make the most of this spiritual experience. It is important to remember why we are holding this event between these two hills during our pilgrimage. This ritual is performed to honour Hazrat Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and mother of Prophet Ismail (AS). She ran between these two hills to obtain water for her baby in the desert, seeking acceptance from the Almighty. As a result, the Almighty miraculously helped her. This is the apotheosis of abiding acceptance in the Creator.
Distance Between Safa and Marwa
Sa’i consists of seven rounds between Safa and Marwa. Both hills are around 394 metres apart. One airing from Safa to Marwa constitutes one round, and another from Marwa to Safa constitutes the additional round. This way, the absolute distance that you will have to walk to complete your Umrah ritual will be about 2.76 km – 3.5 km. It varies a little depending on the walking path and your pace. Although the distance appears significant, most pilgrims report it is much more manageable than walking this distance elsewhere. For many UK Muslims, this comes as a relief, especially when compared to walking long distances in cooler climates back home. This is not only because the pilgrims are motivated to perform it, but also because of the exceptional facilities.
How Long Does it Take to Complete Sa’i?
You may admire how long it takes to accomplish this ritual. Keep in mind that the time to complete this ritual is not fixed. This is because everybody has their own pace. It depends on your speed, activity levels, and the number of breaks you booty during the 7-mile run between the two angelic hills. Therefore, the continuance can vary from person to person. A fast pacer can cover the distance in as few as 35 to 45 minutes, while boilerplate clip walkers can complete it in 50 to 70 minutes. It can also take one to one and a half hours to complete this ritual for older adults or families.
What to Expect During Sa’i?
If you don’t know what to apprehend during Sa’i, don’t worry. We are actually going to acquaint you with this airy retreat before you commence on it.
Climbing the Hills
Safa and Marwa are hills. But pilgrims don’t have to climb the mountain anymore. It is a levelled area. The built-up platform represents each hill. Therefore, you will need to walk gently on an incline while supplicating and offering duas.
Continuous Flow of Pilgrims
There is a continuous flow of pilgrims between Safa and Marwa. The flow is steady and organised. Although it is mostly crowded, the flow is smooth. You should learn more about Umrah pilgrims and how to walk between Safa and Marwa.
A Mix of Emotions
Sa’s is not just a walk between the two hills. It evokes a range of emotions in pilgrims. From gratitude to tears of reflection, you will feel it all during this ritual. Additionally, the renewed unity and sense of closeness that you experience as you perform this ritual are truly unmatched. It will surely transform your life.
No doubt learning the Safa Marwa distance and how to perform the ritual removes any uncertainty or confusion. It gives you the confidence to perform the ritual perfectly. For UK Muslims, who often travel long distances and adjust to new environments, having this knowledge brings peace of mind. Also, compassion’s broad acceptance helps you develop faith, resilience, and patience. It also reminds the pilgrims that the Almighty is always aware and that, if we fully trust Him, He will guide us in every aspect of our lives.