Do you know what the green lights between Safa and Marwa signify? Have you ever wondered about the distance they mark during the Sa’i ritual of Hajj or Umrah? This article delves into the intriguing world of the green lights between the hills of Safa and Marwa, elucidating their significance and the distance they demarcate.
The Ritual of Sa’i
As part of the Hajj or Umrah ritual, pilgrims perform the Sa’i, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. This act commemorates Hagar’s desperate search for water for her son, Ishmael. The ritual of Sa’i is a poignant reminder of her struggle and faith.
Located in the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Safa and Marwa are two hills that hold great significance in Islamic history. These hills are not just a mere geological formation;
they symbolize faith, patience, and the unwavering trust of Prophet Abraham’s wife, Hagar, in God.
Pilgrims perform the Sa’i at a steady pace, reciting supplications and prayers along the way.
The Green Lights Between Safa and Marwa
As you traverse between Safa and Marwa, you’ll notice two green lights. But what do they represent? They mark the area where Hagar ran, driven by her maternal instinct to find water for her dehydrated child. This stretch of path is called the “green mile,” a metaphorical representation of Hagar’s urgency and determination.
Distance of the Green Lights Between Safa and Marwa
The distance between Safa and Marwa is approximately 450 meters. The green lights, however, are positioned roughly in the middle. They span a distance of about 100 meters,
marking the area where Hagar is believed to have run in her desperate search for water. Hence, each “round” from Safa to Marwa and back to Safa totals around 900 meters, making the seven rounds approximately 3.15 kilometers.
The distance between Safa and Marwa may be physical, but its significance transcends mere measurements.
The Symbolism of the Green Lights
During the Sa’i, pilgrims are guided by a series of green lights that mark the path between Safa and Marwa. These lights, strategically placed at regular intervals, serve as a symbolic representation of the divine guidance bestowed upon Hajar during her search for water.
The green lights have various interpretations. Some believe that they symbolize the footsteps of the angels who descended to assist Hajar,
while others see them as a metaphorical representation of the light of faith leading pilgrims through life’s trials and tribulations. Regardless of the interpretation, the green lights hold immense spiritual significance for those undertaking the Sa’i. Reminding them of Hajar’s profound faith and the providence of Allah.
FAQs
Q: Why are the lights between Safa and Marwa green?
A: The green lights signify the area where Hagar ran, hence differentiating this stretch from the rest of the space between the hills.
Q: Is it mandatory to run between the green lights during Sa’i?
A: While it is Sunnah (a tradition of the Prophet Muhammad) for men to hasten their pace between the green lights, it is not mandatory. Women, on the other hand, are not required to change their pace.
Q: What is the significance of Sa’i?
A: The Sa’i ritual holds great significance for pilgrims undertaking Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a physical and spiritual journey that allows pilgrims to connect with the story of Hajar, her unwavering faith, and the miraculous intervention of Allah.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The green lights between Safa and Marwa carry a deep historical and spiritual significance, marking the area where Hagar ran in her desperate quest for water. They are a poignant reminder of her faith and determination, symbolizing the essence of the Sa’i ritual during Hajj or Umrah. So, the next time you find yourself walking between Safa and Marwa, take a moment to reflect on the profound meaning of these green lights.
