Performing Sa’i between Mount Safa and Mount Marwah is a significant ritual during Hajj and Umrah. This ritual commemorates the story of Hajar (peace be upon her), who ran between these two mountains searching for water for her son, Ismail (peace be upon him). As we follow in her footsteps, we remember Allah’s mercy and reflect on our trust in Him.
When standing at Mount Safa or Mount Marwah, it is a Sunnah to recite this special dua. This dua praises Allah, acknowledging His greatness, and reminds us of His ultimate power and mercy.
The Dua
Arabic
أَبْدَأُ بِمَا بَدَأَ اللهُ بِهِ. لَا إِلهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَ اللهُ أَكْـبَر لَا إِلهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ المُلْكُ وَلَهُ الحَمْدُ وهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَيءٍ قَديرٌ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ أَنْجَزَ وَعْدَهُ، وَنَصَرَ عَبْدَهُ وَهَزَمَ الأَحْزَابَ وَحْدَهُ
Translation (English)
“I begin with what Allah began with. Allah is the greatest, Allah is the greatest, Allah is the greatest. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs all sovereignty and praise, and He is over all things omnipotent. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, aided His Servant, and single-handedly defeated the allies.”
Translation (Urdu)
“میں اُس سے شروع کرتا ہوں جس سے اللہ نے شروع کیا۔ اللہ سب سے بڑا ہے، اللہ سب سے بڑا ہے، اللہ سب سے بڑا ہے۔ اللہ کے سوا کوئی معبود نہیں، وہ اکیلا ہے، اس کا کوئی شریک نہیں۔ بادشاہت اور حمد اسی کے لیے ہے اور وہ ہر چیز پر قدرت رکھتا ہے۔ اللہ کے سوا کوئی معبود نہیں، اس نے اپنا وعدہ پورا کیا، اپنے بندے کی مدد کی اور اپنے دشمنوں کو تنہا شکست دی۔”
(Muslim 2:888)
When to Recite This Dua
This dua is recited when you reach Mount Safa and Mount Marwah during the Sa’i, which is a key part of Hajj and Umrah. It is recommended to face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and recite this dua. Remember to say it with sincerity and reflect on the significance of the journey Hajar made. You can repeat this dua as you perform Sa’i between these sacred mountains.
The Meaning Behind the Dua
This dua expresses our gratitude and submission to Allah, acknowledging His greatness. By saying “None has the right to be worshipped except Allah,” we confirm our faith in the Oneness of Allah. The dua also highlights Allah’s support for His servants and His ability to defeat all enemies. Just as He helped His Prophet, He will help us in our struggles if we remain patient and trust in Him.
The Importance of Sa’i
Sa’i represents our trust in Allah, just like Hajar did when she ran between Safa and Marwah in search of water. Allah eventually provided her with Zamzam, a miraculous spring that still flows today. As we perform Sa’i, we remember that even in our hardest moments, Allah is always there to provide for us and guide us.
Benefits of Reciting This Dua
Strengthens Your Faith
This dua reminds us that Allah is always in control, and He has the power to fulfil His promises. It strengthens our faith and gives us confidence in His plan.
Reminds Us of Allah’s Power
As we repeat the words “Allah is the greatest” and “He fulfilled His promise,” we are reminded that no matter what difficulties we face, Allah can overcome them. His power is limitless.
Connects Us to Hajar’s Story
By reciting this dua during Sa’i, we connect to the beautiful story of Hajar’s perseverance and trust in Allah. Her faith and patience were rewarded, and so will ours if we rely on Allah.
FAQs About the Dua for Safa and Marwah
Q: Can I recite the dua in my language?
It is best to recite the dua in Arabic because this is how the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us. However, if you don’t know Arabic, you can still make your duas in your language, asking Allah for what is in your heart.
Q: How many times should I recite this dua during Sa’i?
You can recite this dua as many times as you wish, especially when you reach Mount Safa and Mount Marwah. There is no fixed number of times.
Q: Do I need to face the Kaaba when saying this dua?
Yes, when you reach Mount Safa and Mount Marwah, it is recommended to face the Kaaba while making this dua.
Q: Is Sa’i only for Hajj and Umrah?
Yes, Sa’i is a specific ritual that is only performed during Hajj and Umrah. It is not a regular act of worship like prayer or fasting.