Raml – What is Raml in Islam During Hajj and Umrah?
Raml is a term used in Islamic rituals, specifically during Umrah/Hajj, which refers to walking briskly in a certain manner.
It is a practice followed by men during the Tawaf (the act of walking around the Kaaba). The purpose is to emulate the way the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) performed his Tawaf, offering an expression of vitality, and devotion in the process of worship.
What Is Raml During Umrah and Hajj?
Raml is a practice observed during Umrah and Hajj, two of the most important pilgrimages in Islam. It refers to the practice of walking briskly with a strong stride, lifting the legs forcefully, and slightly thrusting the chest forward while moving the shoulders.
This is done during Tawaf al-Umrah and Tawaf al-Qudum, with the intention of emulating the posture of a warrior in a display of vigor. This act is deeply rooted in the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who is believed to have performed Tawaf in a swift and energetic manner, especially during the early rounds.
The act of Raml is performed by men only during the first three rounds of Tawaf. It symbolises strength, devotion, and reverence, demonstrating the pilgrim’s commitment to the worship of Allah (وتعالى سبحانه). Women, however, are not required to perform Raml and are encouraged to walk at a normal pace while performing Tawaf.
This distinction reflects the different physical and spiritual roles observed in the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. Despite this, both men and women are united in the essence of their worship—humbling themselves before Allah (وتعالى سبحانه) in the sacred space of the Haram.
What Is the Meaning of Raml?
During Tawaf, Raml is done by walking at a fast pace with small steps, swinging the arms in a manner that shows vigor. While Raml is not obligatory, it is a Sunnah practice, meaning it is highly recommended for men to perform it to follow the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Hadiths about Raml
There are several Hadiths that emphasise the importance of Raml during the Tawaf, illustrating how the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) performed this act of worship.
One well-known Hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA) describes how the Prophet (ﷺ) ordered to perform Raml:
Translation:
When the Prophet (ﷺ) arrived (at Makkah) in the year of peace (following that of Al-Hudaibiya treaty with the pagans of Makkah), he (ordered his companions) to do Raml in order to show their strength to the pagans and the pagans were watching (the Muslims) from (the hill of) Quaiqan.
This Hadith highlights the significance of Raml as a demonstration of strength and resilience. By ordering his companions to walk briskly during Tawaf, the Prophet (ﷺ) showed the pagans of Makkah that Muslims were powerful, united, and unwavering in their faith, especially after the peace treaty of Al-Hudaibiya.
It signifies the Prophet’s (ﷺ) strategic use of physical expression to convey both power and determination in the face of opposition.
In another Hadith, Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that the Prophet (ﷺ) hastened in going around the Ka`ba and between the Safa and Marwa in order to show the pagans his power:
Translation:
“When Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and his companions came to Makkah, the pagans circulated the news that a group of people were coming to them and they had been weakened by the Fever of Yathrib (Medina). So the Prophet ordered his companions to do Raml in the first three rounds of Tawaf of the Ka`ba and to walk between the two corners (The Black Stone and Yemenite corner). The Prophet (ﷺ) did not order them to do Raml in all the rounds of Tawaf out of pity for them.”
This Hadith also illustrates the Prophet’s (ﷺ) tactical use of Raml to dispel rumors among the pagans of Mecca. The Prophet (ﷺ) ordered his companions to perform Raml during the first three rounds of Tawaf to show their vigor and unity. However, he also displayed compassion by not requiring them to continue Raml throughout all the rounds, highlighting his balance of force and empathy.
How to Perform Raml?
To perform Raml during Tawaf, there are specific guidelines to follow. Here’s how to perform it properly:
- Start with the Tawaf: When you begin the Tawaf around the Kaaba, you should walk briskly during the first three rounds. The brisk walk includes lifting your legs forcefully, swinging your arms, and keeping your chest slightly thrust forward.
- Focus on the Upper Body Movement: While walking briskly, ensure your shoulder moves in a purposeful manner, as if you are showing your power and resilience. Your movement should be noticeable but not exaggerated.
- End of Raml: After completing the first three rounds, you can switch to a normal walking pace for the remaining rounds of Tawaf.
This is in accordance with the Sunnah, where the Prophet (ﷺ) did not continue Raml beyond the first three rounds, allowing for ease and comfort:
“The Prophet performed Raml from the (Black) Stone to the (Black) Stone for three (circuits), and he walked four (circuits).”
What Does Idhtibaa Mean?
Idhtibaa is an important term related to the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. It refers to the act of draping the Ihram garment in a particular way as part of the Sunnah. This practice is performed by men during all 7 circuits of Tawaf and involves placing the Ihram cloth over the left shoulder while leaving the right shoulder uncovered.
Idhtibaa is performed during the Tawaf of both Umrah and Hajj and is in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who did this to distinguish the pilgrims in a state of readiness and devotion to the sacred rites.
After Tawaf, when moving to pray behind the Maqam Ibrahim or during the Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, the Ihram should be adjusted back to its usual position, covering both shoulders.
The practice of Idhtibaa is based on the Hadiths:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and his Companions performed umrah from al-Ji’ranah. They went quickly round the House (the Ka’bah) moving their shoulders) proudly. They put their upper garments under their armpits and threw the ends over their left shoulders.
Download Umrah Dua PDF Cards
For your convenience, we’ve made available a set of beautifully designed Umrah Dua PDF cards that you can download and take with you during your pilgrimage.
These cards feature a curated selection of important duas and supplications from the Quran and Hadith, allowing you to enhance your spiritual journey with ease.
Keep these cards on hand as a reminder to stay connected with Allah (وتعالى سبحانه) throughout your Islamic rituals, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the powerful duas that can bring peace and blessings.
Download DIY Step-by-Step Umrah Guide
Planning your Umrah journey can be overwhelming, but with our easy-to-follow DIY Step-by-Step Umrah Guide, you’ll have everything you need to prepare. This guide provides clear instructions on how to perform each ritual, from the moment you enter the state of Ihram to the final prayers at the Kaaba.
Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or someone who has performed the pilgrimage before, this guide will ensure that you carry out your sacred duties with confidence and devotion.
[Download DIY Step-by-Step Umrah Guide]
FAQs
Can You Touch the Kaaba During Umrah?
Touching the Kaaba during Umrah is permissible but not required. While many pilgrims seek to touch or kiss the Black Stone, it is not a necessity for the ritual. The main focus is to perform the rituals with devotion.
What is Prohibited to Do During Hajj and Umrah?
During Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims must avoid sinful behavior like arguing or fighting, cutting hair or nails before certain rituals, marital relations while in Ihram, hunting an animal, cutting down a tree, wearing normal clothes (for men) or scented products, and smoking. These prohibitions maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
What is Sa’ee in Umrah?
Sa’ee is the ritual of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, symbolising Hajar’s search for water. It is an essential part of Umrah, reflecting perseverance and trust in Allah (Subhana Wa Tala).
Summary – Raml
Raml is a Sunnah practice during Umrah and Hajj, where male pilgrims walk briskly around the Kaaba during Tawaf, demonstrating strength and resilience. This practice, which involves lifting the legs forcefully and moving the shoulders, is rooted in the Hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who used it to show might to the pagans of Makkah.
Raml is performed in the first three rounds of Tawaf, after which pilgrims walk at a normal pace.
It signifies the physical and spiritual strength of the Muslim community, with its historical and symbolic significance rooted in the early days of Islam.
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