Umrah Rituals - Saii

Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwa)
After completing Tawaf, the pilgrim proceeds to perform Sa’i, which involves walking back and forth seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa inside the Masjid al-Haram.

1. Significance of Sa’i:
Sa’i commemorates the devotion and perseverance of Hagar (Hājar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim) as she searched desperately for water for her infant son, Prophet Ismail (Ishmael). Her unwavering faith and struggle were rewarded when Allah miraculously provided the Zamzam well, a continuous source of water.

2. How to Perform Sa’i:
The pilgrim starts at Safa, facing the Kaaba, and recites:
"Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah" (Quran 2:158).
A supplication is made before proceeding towards Marwa.
The pilgrim walks at a normal pace but runs briskly between the two green markers, imitating Hagar’s desperate search for water.
Upon reaching Marwa, another supplication is made before returning to Safa.
This back-and-forth movement is done seven times (Safa → Marwa counts as one).

3. Completing Sa’i:
After the seventh lap, the Sa’i ends at Marwa.
If performing Umrah, men trim or shave their hair, while women cut a small portion of hair.
If performing Hajj, pilgrims remain in Ihram and prepare for the next rituals.
Sa’i teaches patience, perseverance, and trust in Allah’s mercy.

Lessons We Learn from Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwa)
The ritual of Sa’i, performed by millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, is not just a physical act but a deeply spiritual experience that carries valuable lessons for life. Here are some key takeaways:

 
1. Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)
Hagar’s search for water in the barren desert symbolizes complete trust in Allah. Even though she did not know where the water would come from, she did her best and left the outcome to Allah.
Lesson: In life, we should work hard while relying on Allah’s wisdom and mercy, knowing that He provides in ways we may not expect.
 
2. Patience and Perseverance
Hagar did not stop after one or two rounds—she kept searching tirelessly seven times before Allah granted her the miracle of Zamzam.
Lesson: Life is full of struggles, but success requires persistence and patience. When faced with difficulties, we should keep striving, just as Hagar did.
 
3. Action Before Reward
Hagar did not simply wait for Allah to provide; she took action and made an effort, despite the harsh conditions.
Lesson: Allah’s help comes when we make an effort. Praying for success is important, but we must also work towards our goals.
 
4. Equality and Unity
Every pilgrim, regardless of background, race, or status, performs Sa’i in the same way, showing that all humans are equal before Allah.
Lesson: Islam promotes unity and humility. No one is superior except by piety and good deeds.
 
5. Motherhood and Strength
Hagar’s story highlights the strength of a mother who endured hardship for her child’s survival.
Lesson: Mothers make incredible sacrifices, and their patience and love are invaluable. We should appreciate and honor them.
 
6. Miracles Come in Unexpected Ways
Hagar was looking for water in the distance, yet Allah’s miracle, the Zamzam well, was right where her baby was.
Lesson: Sometimes, we seek solutions elsewhere, but Allah’s blessings are closer than we think. Trust in His timing and plan.
 
7. Gratitude for Allah’s Blessings
The Zamzam water, which came as a result of Hagar’s struggle, is now a continuous blessing for millions of people.
Lesson: When Allah blesses us, we should be grateful and use His gifts wisely.

Final Thought:
Sa’i teaches us that life is a journey of effort, patience, and faith. By trusting in Allah, persevering through hardships, and remaining grateful, we can overcome challenges and receive His blessings.