Tawaaf

[Reader Questions]

Does tawaf entail 7 rounds of the Kabah or only 1 round?

[Joseph Islam]

Peace,

The Quran provides no explicit number of circuits required. [1]

However in my humble view,  it is useful to acknowledge that the current practice of 7 or even more (in remembrance of God) is not incongruent with the Quran’s overarching teachings. Also one circuit close to the Ka’aba is not the same as a circuit completed at the outermost boundaries of the Ka'aba's precinct. Arguably, the intentions will remain paramount with the Quranic proviso “to keep your duty to God as best you can / what you are able... (Arabic: ma is’tata’tum)”

Given the above and personally, I have not found any cogent reason to breach the current practice if I am able to fulfil it. Completing more or less circuits would be a matter of choice given the circumstances presented at the time.

I hope this helps, God willing

Regards,
Joseph


REFERENCES:

[1] THE SEVEN CIRCUITS OF THE KA'ABA
http://quransmessage.com/articles/seven%20circuits%20FM3.htm
[2] DO THE BEST YOU CAN WITH SINCERITY
http://quransmessage.com/articles/best%20you%20can%20FM3.htm