The Zamzam Well is located in the heart of Mecca, in Masjid e Haram. It is the most sacred and spiritually rich site for Muslims. Its significance goes beyond being a sacred site. It holds a deep spiritual, emotional, and physical value for the Muslims. Anyone looking to book All Inclusive Umrah Packages must acquaint himself well with this wonder of Allah Almighty. Moreover, this article will help him to know about its significance, value, and virtues that will make his Umrah trip reap the benefits and holiness of Zamzam water.
History of the Zamzam Well
The history of this sacred Muslim site dates back to the time of Hazrat Ibrahim, his wife Hazrat Hajra, and their son Hazrat Ismail. When Allah ordered Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S) to leave his wife and newborn son in the desert, which later on became a bustling Mecca city, it was when this miraculous well came into being. When he left after leaving his family in the barren land alone, little Ismail started crying with thirst. There was nothing in that vast land to feed the child. Hazrat Hajra ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times in search of food and water for her baby. But she couldn’t find anything. When she returned, she met a miracle. The place where baby Ismail was lying and pushing his feet against the sand, sprouted a fountain of water.
Seeing this, she instantly gathered sand and pebbles and started accumulating around it to preserve it for later use. But it did not stop and kept on running. So, she uttered “zam zam” an Arabic word that means “stop.” Water instantly stopped, and a well was formed to store it. Hazrat Hajra stored this water, and whenever caravans would pass by this barren land, they would trade water for grains. Hence, in this way, Hazrat Hajra started trading and earning a livelihood. Soon, the barren desert turned into a trading hub, and different tribes started settling down near it, transforming it into a lively city.
Wonders and Virtues of the Zamzam Water
The water of Zamzam is the greatest miracle of Allah Almighty. For over 4000 years, the water from this well has been flowing continuously. The water is pure, clean, and free from all sorts of contamination. Although the well is situated in a desert area, Zamzam is still considered a source of fresh water with immense properties. In addition, it is believed that Zamzam has healing properties. It cures every disease for what it is meant to be drunk. This statement can be validated by the saying of the Holy Prophet as well who spoke highly of Zamzam. He says, “The water of Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for.” – Ibn Majah, 3062. This hadith pays a high value to the “intention” or “niyah” behind drinking the water.
Its virtues do not end here. In many other places, the Prophet (P.B.U.H) emphasized the importance of Zamzam water. Abu Hurairah states in Sahih Muslim, 4/1922, that the Prophet said “It is a blessing, and it is food that satisfies.” In another instance, the last Holy Messenger of Allah stated that “the best water on the face of the earth is the water of Zamzam; it is a kind of food and a healing from sickness.” – Sahih al-Jami, 3302. More than water, Zamzam is a testament to Allah the Almighty’s miracles and his unending blessings. In addition to this, in the time of Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H), the sacredness of the water increased. He would often instruct his friends to drink water from this well and make ablution as well to get rid of sins completely. The Holy Prophet’s sayings and instructions made this well a sacred site for the Muslims. Now Muslims coming for Hajj and Umrah quench their thirst by drinking from this well and also take it as a gift for their loved ones back home.
Manners of Drinking the Sacred Water
Besides holding great wondrous significance, the water of Zamzam has many spiritual effects. The right way to drink has been laid out in the Sunnah (the teachings of our Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). Following those steps, not only can Muslims reap its spiritual benefits but also rewards and blessings from Allah Almighty. Let us discuss the right way to drink the sacred water. First of all, it is important to make an intention or niyah. It is vital for every believer to set his intention right and make dua for whatever purpose he is drinking. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) has focused on making the dua before drinking the water as the water will fulfill the purpose for what it is drunken.
Secondly, to drink the Zamzam water, it is mandatory to stand up and turn your face towards the direction of Qibla. Moreover, it is recommended to drink the water with the right hand (as Islam suggests for all food and drinks). It is also an act of following the Sunnah of the Prophet (P.B.U.H). In addition, drink water in three sips. This is a practice of drinking water, as our Prophet suggested. In this way, Muslims can make duas between each sip and experience the joy of drinking the sacred water. This way of drinking does not only restrict to drinking Zamzam water but all sorts of drinks. It is the most favorable method and aligns well with the manners of drinking.
Another way to drink water is while sitting. However, it is not mandatory as Ibn e Abbas stated that he gave Zamzam water to the Prophet (P.B.U.H) when he was standing and said that there was no issue in drinking water while standing but it is good to sit down to drink. Considering its benefits, the Zamzam water can be sprinkled on any part of the body or elsewhere to seek blessings. It is not permissible to waste the water otherwise.
The Water Purification Project of Zamzam
The Zamzam Water Purification Project was launched in 2010 to preserve the sanctity of the water. The project cost around 700 million SAR and was solely built due to the immense importance of Zamzam. It is located 2.5 km from Masjid e Haram and comprises air compressors that ensure the purity and cleanliness of the water. Moreover, there is a raw water package storage house that stores the raw water and then undergoes the cleanliness of it. There is a large production line built on an area of 13,405 meters that ensures that pilgrims never run short of Zamzam water.
Wrap Up
The well of Zamzam is the symbol of the mercy and blessings of Allah. It is the source of great spiritual and physical healing for the Muslims. Believers coming to Mecca after booking Umrah packages find this miracle of Allah as their absolute joy. Its water purifies them, absolves them of their sins, and makes it a great gift to take home. When it comes to the budget-friendly Family Umrah Packages, Muslims Holy Travels stand as the pilgrims’ first choice. Visit our website to avail the most suitable Umrah package.