The Meaning of Muthowif in the Implementation of Hajj and Umrah, Complete with his Duties

Illustration - the atmosphere of the hajj in the Holy Land (photo: Pixabay/Dinar_Aulia)

YOGYAKARTA - The term muthowif often appears in the implementation of the hajj and umrah. So, what is the meaning of muthowif?

The term muthowif is often heard in the guidance of manasik and when in Mecca and Medina.

Understanding the meaning is very important so that the pilgrims know who will guide them during the series of worship.

The Meaning of Muthowif in Language and Terminology

In terms of language, the term muthowif comes from the verb tafa-yatuufu which means to surround. This term also refers to tawaf at the ka'bah.

Thus, muthowif means a person who guides the thawaf or a companion of the thawaf.

In the context of the implementation of the hajj and umrah, the muthowif is an individual who is tasked with guiding the pilgrims in the implementation of the worship since arriving in the Holy Land, both in Mecca and Medina.

The muthowif will explain the procedures for umrah, help read prayers, guide in the rituals of worship, and answer questions from pilgrims regarding the implementation of worship.

Muthowif's Duties and Roles

The existence of muthawif plays an important role in accompanying the congregation during the manasik until the implementation of the hajj and umrah in the Holy Land. In addition to being a companion, muthawif also carries various responsibilities and obligations, including the following:

Religious Guidance

One of the main functions of the muthawif is to provide spiritual guidance. The muthawif helps pilgrims to understand the value and wisdom behind each series of worship, as well as providing religious advice so that the worship is more devout and meaningful.

Hajj and Umrah Implementation Companion

In every stage of worship, such as tawaf, sa'i, to wukuf in Arafah, muthawif plays the role of a companion. They ensure that the congregation carries out all rituals in accordance with the provisions of the sharia and the procedures that have been established.

Source of Information for Worship

Muthawif also serves as an information provider related to the implementation of the hajj and umrah. They explain the procedures for worship, the background of the history of each ritual, as well as answer various questions from pilgrims regarding the meaning and purpose of the worship.

Security Guarantor for the Congregation

Not only in the spiritual aspect, muthawif also plays a role in maintaining the safety of the congregation. They provide guidance related to security and remind the congregation to always comply with rules and protocols while in Mecca and Medina.

Requirements to Become a Muthowif

In order to be able to carry out the role as a muthawif, there are a number of criteria that must be met. This profession cannot be done by just anyone because it involves a great responsibility in guiding the Hajj and Umrah. The requirements that need to be met include the following:

Having a deep understanding of Islam

Muthawif is required to master the Qur'an, Hadith, fiqh, as well as understand the meaning and procedures of the Hajj and Umrah.

Experienced in Performing Hajj and Umrah

Direct experience of performing the Hajj and Umrah, ideally more than once, is an important resource in guiding the congregation.

Able to Communicate Well

Language mastery such as Indonesian, Arabic, or English is needed so that guidance can be delivered clearly and effectively.

Have Management Skills

The skills of organizing the congregation and coordinating the journey are needed so that the entire series of worship runs orderly and smoothly.

Be Honest and Have High Moral Character

Muthawif must be an example in attitude, behavior, and spiritual life for the congregation.

Understanding the Basic Health of the Community

Basic knowledge about general health conditions during the hajj and umrah helps muthawif to maintain the safety of the congregation.

Ready Physically and Mentally

Good physical condition and mental readiness are needed to face various challenges during the pilgrimage.

Understand Administration and Regulation

Muthawif must know the management of documents, visas, as well as the applicable regulations for Hajj and Umrah.

Mastering Support Technology

The use of manasik applications, GPS, and digital communication helps the guidance process for pilgrims to be more effective.

That's the explanation about the meaning of muthowif. Get other interesting news updates by visiting the VOI.id page.