Tawaf - Seven Circuits Around the Kaaba
Tawaf is seven counter-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba starting at the Black Stone - the heart of Umrah and Hajj, prayed through with dhikr and dua.
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How to
Steps in order
- 1Face the Black Stone with takbir to begin circuit one.
- 2Circle counter-clockwise seven times with dhikr and dua.
- 3Recite Rabbana atina between the Yemeni corner and the Stone.
- 4Pray two rakahs, drink Zamzam, and head to Safa for sai.
The method
Face the Black Stone, raise hands saying Allahu Akbar (or touch/kiss it if possible without harming others), then circle counter-clockwise seven times keeping the Kaaba on your left - walking briskly (raml) in the first three of arrival tawaf for men.
Between the Yemeni corner and the Black Stone recite Rabbana atina; elsewhere make any dhikr and personal dua - no fixed script is required.
After tawaf
Pray two rakahs behind Maqam Ibrahim (or anywhere in the mosque), drink Zamzam, then proceed to sai. Wudu is required for tawaf - renew it if broken mid-circuit and continue counting.
Sources & review
Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim (tawaf method, raml, Maqam Ibrahim prayer)
Learn personal details from a qualified teacher; minor school differences exist.
Educational content — not a fatwa. See methodology and disclaimer.
Reviewed • 2026-01-01Our methodology
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Must I touch or kiss the Black Stone?
No - gesture from afar if crowded. Harming others to reach it is forbidden; the gesture carries the same opening.
Does tawaf need wudu?
Yes, wudu is required; renew it if broken and continue your count.
What if I lose count of circuits?
Build on the lower certain number (e.g. count 3 if unsure between 3 and 4) and complete seven.
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