Question:
I understand that there is a farewell ṭawāf (circumambulation) during the Ḥajj pilgrimage, however, what is the ruling of the farewell ṭawāf for the one who visits the sacred lands for the ‘Umrah pilgrimage? Are such pilgrims permitted or required to do a farewell ṭawāf?
Answer:
Jazāk Allāh Khayr/ Thank you for your question.
The farewell ṭawāf in Ḥajj is wājib (necessary) as practiced by the Prophet Muḥammd (peace and blessings upon him). The Messenger (peace and blessings upon him) instructed,
“None amongst you should depart until they perform the last circumambulation around the [Sacred] House.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim)
As far as the farewell ṭawāf for ‘Umrah is concerned, there is difference of opinion amongst mainstream classical islamic jurists. One group states that it is not necessary nor required in any circumstance.
The view of another group of scholars is that it should be done in the case where the pilgrim has stayed in Makkah for more than a day, after completing the ‘Umrah.
The general fiqh (islamic law) does dictate that the farewell ṭawāf for one who has completed ‘Umrah is “afdhal wa ḥasan” meaning ‘praiseworthy’ and ‘meritorious’ but not required nor mandatory.
The references for this view are the following:
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The generality of the prophetic statement, “None amongst you should depart until they perform the last circumambulation around the [Sacred] House.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim)
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The instruction of the Prophet, “Do in your ‘Umrah the same as you do in your Ḥajj.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Bukhārī)
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The ḥadīth “The ‘Umrah is a minor Ḥajj” (Bayhaqī and Ibn Ḥibbān).
And Allāh Knows Best