When people visit the holy cities during Ramadan, they often book Ramadan Umrah packages to make their trip hassle-free. During the Umrah rituals, pilgrims visit the Maqam e Ibrahim after performing the Tawaaf (circling the Kaaba seven times). The Maqam e Ibrahim, also known as the Station of Ibrahim, holds a deeper significance for Muslims around the globe.
Located just a few metres away from the Holy Kaaba, this site serves as a symbol of sacrifice, devotion, and faith. Visiting Maqam e Ibrahim and praying near it connects pilgrims directly with a profound chapter of Islamic history, making it an essential and emotional part of the sacred journey of Umrah. This blog will uncover what Maqam e Ibrahim is and why it is so important in an Islamic context.
What is Maqam E Ibrahim?
Maqam in Arabic translates to the point where the feet of a person are placed. Hazrat Ibrahim (Peace be Upon Him), also known as Khalil Ul Allah, was one of the prophets of Allah Almighty, who was thrown into the fire by the Quraish but was never burnt since the fire became cold on God’s command.
Located 46 feet away from the Kaaba in the Mataaf (the circular area around the Kaaba where pilgrims perform Tawaf), the point features the actual footprints of Hazrat Ibrahim. The print is engraved on a blackish-red stone. The footprints are safely preserved in a glass dome that is covered with a gold casing.
Maqam e Ibrahim is 20cm in height, whereas the stone which has the imprint is 8 x 14 x 15 inches, with height, width, and length, respectively. The distance between both feet is about 1 cm. Previously, there existed a room for Maqam e Ibrahim; however, it got replaced by the gold casing. The dome was first created in 810 Hijri.
Historical Overview
Maqam e Ibrahim is a sacred site that connects Muslims to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) and the building of the Kaaba. The Holy Kaaba was destroyed during Noah’s flood. Allah commanded Hazrat Ibrahim and his son Ismail to reconstruct the sacred building once again. The suggestions for raising the foundations of the structure were given. Thus, the Prophet Ibrahim obeyed, and the Kaaba was built again.
Different stones were brought to construct the holy structure, including those from Mount Hira and Mount Thubayr. To reach the higher walls, Allah bestowed a special stone upon Hazrat Ibrahim, upon which he stood to complete the building. The stone miraculously lifted and lowered, moving wherever needed during the construction. The stone beneath the Prophet’s feet got softened, allowing his footprint to sink into it. The stone was placed near the Kaaba by Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
However, it was later moved to its current location during the time of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (R.A.), the second Caliph of Islam. This change was made because the number of pilgrims had grown, and there was a need to create more space for people performing Tawaaf.
Maqam e Ibrahim is not just a historical artefact. It is a living symbol of faith, sacrifice, and the beginning of the tradition of Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims who visit it today are reminded of the efforts and prayers of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) and Prophet Ismail (Peace Be Upon Him), and they feel a deep connection to this blessed history.
Why is Maqam e Ibrahim Significant in Islam?
This section will explore why the Maqam e Ibrahim is significant in the Islamic context, marking it as an important part of the pilgrimage rituals. Let’s have a look:
- Important Part of Pilgrimage
Maqam e Ibrahim is an important part of both Umrah and Hajj. After completing the pilgrimage, it is considered to be a Sunnah to pray two rakats behind Maqam e Ibrahim. Pilgrims gather behind the Maqam to perform this prayer, seeking closeness to Allah and following the path set by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This prayer is a moment of reflection for the pilgrims, allowing them to connect spiritually to the history of the Kaaba’s construction and the humble efforts of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him).
- Mentioned in the Quran
Maqam e Ibrahim is directly mentioned in the Holy Quran, which confirms its religious importance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 125, Allah says, “And take, \[O believers], from the standing place of Abraham a place of prayer.” This verse shows that praying near Maqam e Ibrahim after Tawaaf is not only a Sunnah but also a divine command. The mention in the Quran gives it a clear and lasting status in Islam. It is not just a historical relic but a sacred part of worship that Muslims continue to follow as part of their pilgrimage.
- Direct Link to Islamic Past
Maqam e Ibrahim directly links Muslims to their rich Islamic past, connecting them to the Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him). His footprints on the stone serve as a real reminder of his sacrifice and devotion to Allah’s commands. Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) is one of the most respected prophets in Islam. His story of building the Kaaba with his son, Prophet Ismail (Peace Be Upon Him), reflects patience, hard work, and complete submission to Allah’s will. By seeing the Maqam and praying near it, Muslims feel a direct connection to the Prophet’s legacy. It keeps his memory alive and inspires believers to show the same strength in their faith.
How to Visit Maqam e Ibrahim During Umrah?
Visiting Maqam e Ibrahim is part of the Umrah experience. After you complete the Tawaaf, which is walking around the Kaaba seven times, your next step is to pray two Rakat. This prayer should be offered behind the Maqam e Ibrahim. It is Sunnah, and it follows the command mentioned in the Quran.
You do not need to touch or kiss the Maqam. It is better not to, as large crowds can make it unsafe. Simply find a clear spot behind it, face the Kaaba, and offer your prayer. If the area is too crowded, you can pray anywhere in Masjid al-Haram, as long as you are behind the Maqam.
The Maqam is placed inside a golden glass casing. You can clearly see the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) inside it. Many people stop briefly to look at the Maqam after praying.
It is important to stay calm, avoid pushing, and show respect to others. Do not block the path for other pilgrims. The purpose is to remember the efforts of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and perform your worship with full sincerity. Visiting the Maqam is a peaceful and spiritual part of Umrah when done with patience and proper understanding.
Final Words
This blog has discussed what Maqam e Ibrahim is and how it is significant in Islam. Pilgrims visit the Mecca city every year to perform Umrah, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan. They struggle to view the footprints of Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.) after completing the Tawaaf. Maqam e Ibrahim serves as a key site for Muslims to learn the true meaning of patience, sacrifice, and faith. If you are looking for travel deals to fly to Mecca, then contact Muslims Holy Travel to get Ramadan Umrah packages.
Leave a Reply