What is the definition and ruling of Ramal (brisk walking/jogging) during Tawaf?
Chapter on Mentioning Hajj and Entering Makkah
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Ramal means quickening the pace while taking short steps without leaping. It is a confirmed Sunnah in the first three circuits of the Tawaf al-Qudum, and there is no known disagreement among scholars on this point. Evidence confirms that the Prophet, peace be upon him, performed Ramal for three circuits and walked for four. This action was performed by the Prophet and his Companions even during the Farewell Pilgrimage after the conquest of Mecca, establishing it as a confirmed Sunnah. The narration stating the Prophet performed Ramal for all circuits of his Umrah and Hajj, as did Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and the succeeding Caliphs, further supports its continuous prescription.
Supporting text
Some scholars, including Tawus, 'Ata', and Al-Hasan, narrated that the Prophet walked between the two corners (the Yamani and the Black Stone corners) based on a narration from Ibn Abbas explaining that the Ramal was initially ordered to show strength to the polytheists, and after the polytheists saw their strength, they were commanded to walk between the two corners to preserve their energy. However, the direct narrations from Ibn Umar and Jabir state the Prophet performed Ramal from one corner until he returned to it, and these narrations take precedence due to being affirmative evidence, relating to the final action during the Farewell Pilgrimage (which is later), and being narrated by companions who were more mature and attentive to the Prophet's actions.