Parallel circular pathways around the Ka'bah to facilitate circumambulation

1-11-2003 | IslamWeb

Question:

Can parallel circular pathways be placed surrounding the Kaaba, vertically upwards to a reasonable height so that Hajjis during Hajj can effectively perform the Tawaaf at a given time when there are many millions of them? In this way, large numbers of Hajjis can complete their Tawaaf in the same time, which in the present circumstance is difficult and involves a lot of hustling and pushing during Tawaaf in Hajj days. To an onlooker such a sight does not appear satisfactory at all, on the contrary it seems that there are lot of violation of rights of the other Hajjis which keeps on going though without any qualms but in each Hajji's heart he or she feels dejected and frustrated. Please reply rationally and logically.
Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) is His slave and Messenger.

 

To build a parallel circular pathway around the Ka'bah for the sake of Tawaaf (circumambulation) is permitted, as stated by scholars. The writer of 'Asnal-Mataalib' said, "If the roof (of the Ka'bah) is raised higher above the House (mosque), the Tawaaf (around the Ka'bah) is permissible, as the prayer on top of Mount Abi-Qubais is allowed even though it is above the Mosque." However, as it is known, to build a parallel circular pathway is subject to the capability and circumstances of the authority concerned. It may seem easy for us, but there might be some logistical difficulties in executing such a plan.

Allaah knows best.

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