Can Shoes Be Worn During Tawaf?Posted by Muminah Tannous on December 18th, 2024 ![]() Tawaf is walking around the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise. It is a sacred and essential ritual in Islam, performed during the Hajj and Umrah. Many people ask, "Can we wear shoes in Tawaf?" This is an excellent question! Let us discuss rules, health reasons, old traditions, and helpful tips so you can do Tawaf in peace and Comfort. Islamic Rulings on Wearing Shoes During TawafGeneral Ruling on ShoesIn Islam, it is acceptable to wear shoes in Umrah and its rituals, such as Tawaf and Sa’i, but there are some rules to follow: Shoes Must Be Clean: Shoes must not have dirt (najasah) on them. Masjid al-Haram is a holy place, so cleanliness is essential. No Disturbing Others: Shoes should not bother or make other pilgrims uncomfortable. Health Reasons: If you have foot pain or trouble walking, it is even better to wear shoes to make things easier. What Scholars Say About ShoesThe four big schools of Islam—Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali—all say wearing shoes is fine in Tawaf. But walking without shoes (barefoot) is better for showing humility and respect. Modern Scholars: Today’s scholars also say wearing shoes is good if it makes worship easier, especially for sick or older adults. Islam is not hard, and Comfort is allowed. Health and Practical Reasons for Wearing Shoes During TawafFor Medical Needs
Hot and Cold Floors
Big Crowds
Cultural and Historical Practices of TawafBarefoot Tradition In old times, many pilgrims walked without shoes during Tawaf. Why? It is a way to show great respect for the Kaaba and holy Masjid al-Haram. Walking barefoot says, "I am humble, I submit to Allah." Even today, people love this practice of feeling closer to Allah. Modern Footwear in Tawaf Now, many pilgrims choose light sandals, slippers, and other shoes that are the Islamic viewpoint and are permissible to wear during Umrah. They are easy to wear, make walking comfortable, and still show respect for tradition. Shoe Bags: Pilgrims who remove their shoes carry them in small bags. This way, their shoes stay clean and safe while they do Tawaf. Barefoot Has Deep Meaning Equality: Without shoes, everyone is identical in front of Allah—rich and poor, no difference. Prophets' Way: Walking barefoot reminds us of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). They lived simply, showing complete trust in Allah and no need for worldly things. For us, the blessed life of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is a perfect example. What he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did with his hands in his blessed life or what he showed by doing in his holy life is guidance for us. It is a perfect guidance. We must follow it, and there is only one benefit to it. That is why our belief should be that we should act according to your instructions (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Scholars’ Opinions on Shoes for Men and Women During UmrahWhen going for Umrah, men and women must follow simple Islamic shoe rules. Let’s see what scholars say about what shoes you can wear, their names, and shapes. Shoes for Men Guidelines: Men must wear shoes that keep the ankles and top of the foot uncovered during Ihram. Shoes cannot cover the instep (the part on top of the foot between the toes and ankle). Types of Shoes for Men: Slippers: Plain flip-flops or sandals work well. Leather Sandals (Khuff): Old-style leather sandals that open the top of the foot. Soft Sandals: Modern sandals with straps ensure the ankle and instep are not covered. Shape: Open-toe and backless styles are perfect. No stitching or covering should hide the top part of the foot. Shoes for Women Guidelines: Women don’t have strict rules about shoes. They can cover their feet even in Ihram. Types of Shoes for Women: Flat Shoes: Comfy flat shoes are great for walking. Soft Sandals: Sandals with straps for support are good. Closed Shoes: Light sneakers or slip-on shoes are allowed for more comfort. Shape: Open or closed, depending on what feels suitable for walking. Choose something light and easy to walk in for long hours. General Tips for AllMaterial: Choose soft materials like leather, rubber, or foam to avoid pain or blisters. Cleanliness: Shoes must be clean and free from dirt or impure (najasah). Color: There are no strict rules, but simple colors are better for modesty. Popular Shoes for UmrahNa’layn: Traditional sandals are often used for prayer. Khuff: Leather sandals famous for rituals. Ihram Sandals: Special sandals made for men’s Ihram rules. Slip-On Shoes: Easy to wear and carry, liked by many women. By choosing the right shoes, men and women can focus on their worship comfortably without worrying! Interesting Facts and Insights About Tawaf and FootwearMany Hadiths show the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sometimes wore shoes during prayer and other acts of worship, as long as they were clean. The Prophet (PBUH) used to pray while wearing shoes. Anas ibn Malik (RA) asked, “Did the Prophet (PBUH) pray wearing shoes?” The reply was “Yes.” (Muslim 555; al-Bukhari 386). This shows that wearing shoes during religious acts, including Tawaf, is allowed. Narrated Abu Sa'id (RA): Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: "When any of you comes to the mosque he should look and if he sees impurity on his sandals (shoes) he should wipe them and then pray in them." [Reported by Abu Dawud, and Ibn Khuzaimah graded it Sahih (authentic)]. Source: https://sunnah.com/bulugh/2/82 Why did the Prophet pray while sporting shoes?The hadiths, "Be different from the Jews, who do not pray in their shoes or in their leather slippers (khufuf)," reveal one of the reasons the Prophet (PBUH) prayed wearing shoes. (Abu Dawud, 652; categorized as sahih by al-Albani in Sahih Abi Dawud, 607.) As said above, it is mustahabb—that which sets one apart from non-Muslims. This Hadith shows that clean shoes, including Tawaf, are okay to wear during worship. Footwear for Special NeedsFor Disabilities and Wheelchairs: Pilgrims with physical disabilities or using wheelchairs must wear shoes. Shoes make movement easier, especially during long Tawaf. Special Tawaf Shoes: Recently, lightweight shoes made just for Tawaf have become available in many Islamic countries. These shoes are easy to remove and clean, which makes them comfortable and hygienic. ConclusionIt is encouraged to walk barefoot during Tawaf because it symbolizes humility and equality, but wearing shoes is also allowed, especially for those who have health problems or need more comfort. Islam is flexible, allowing pilgrims to do Tawaf in a way that suits their needs. Whether you go barefoot or wear shoes, the most important thing is your focus on worship and connection to Allah. If you have any doubts, it's always a good idea to ask a knowledgeable scholar or imam. What truly matters is the sincerity and devotion in your heart while performing this beautiful act of worship. Apart from knowing about the permissibility of wearing shoes during circumambulating around the Kaaba, Muslims must be aware of what to say during Tawaf for better pilgrimage experience. Like it? 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