Section

Allah Most High says concerning circumambulation:

“And when We designated for Abraham the site of the House, saying, ‘Do not associate anything with Me, and purify My House for those who circumambulate it, stand in prayer, and bow and prostrate.’” [Al-Hajj: 26]

He also says:

“And We charged Abraham and Ishmael: ‘Purify My House for those who circumambulate it, remain there in worship, and bow and prostrate.’” [Al-Baqara: 125]

And He says:

“Let them fulfil their vows and circumambulate the Ancient House.” [Al-Hajj: 29]

Some reports relate that circumambulation of the House originated when Allah, blessed and exalted be He, said to the angels:

“‘I am placing a successor on earth.’ They said, ‘Will You place there someone who will spread corruption and shed blood, while we glorify You with praise and proclaim Your holiness?’ He said, ‘I know what you do not know.’” [Al-Baqara: 30]

He became intensely angry with them, so they scattered because of His anger and sought refuge at the Throne. They circled it seven times, seeking Allah’s forgiveness. He forgave them and said to them: “Build Me a House on earth around which the descendants of the one I appoint as successor there will circumambulate and seek My forgiveness. I will forgive them as I have forgiven you, and be pleased with them as I am pleased with you.” Allah, glorified and exalted be He, knows best.

Section

Allah Most High says concerning Safa and Marwah:

“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. Whoever makes hajj to the House or performs umrah incurs no blame by going between them. And whoever voluntarily does good—Allah is Appreciative, All-Knowing.” [Al-Baqara: 158]

His statement that they are among the symbols of Allah is evidence that going between them is obligatory. For Allah Most High has stated that going between them is among the rites of hajj performed by His close friend Abraham—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him—when he asked Him to show him the rites of hajj. Although expressed as a statement, it is intended as a command, for Allah Most High commanded His Prophet to follow the religion of Abraham, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, saying:

“Then We revealed to you: ‘Follow the religion of Abraham, who was devoted to Allah alone.’” [Al-Nahl: 123]

Nor do His words provide evidence that going between them is not obligatory:

“He incurs no blame by going between them.” [Al-Baqara: 158]

For their meaning is explained by the following: “It is reported that when the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, performed umrah