What is it?:
Zamzam is the name of a well in Mecca, Saudi Arabia which
provides natural spring water to the millions of Muslim pilgrims who visit each
year. The well is located a few meters east of the Ka'aba.
Where did it come from?:
Islamic tradition holds that the spring, in the middle of a
desert valley, dates back to the Prophet Abraham. It is believed that Abraham
visited the area with his wife, Hajar, and infant son, Ishmael. When they were
left alone, Hajar searched desperately for water in the dry, barren land --
running back and forth between two hills and praying for God's help. Muslims
believe that God answered her prayers and satisfied her thirst, by causing the
spring to rise up from the Earth. The spring has run continuously for several
thousand years.
What is it like?:
The water of Zamzam is slightly salty to taste, and is known
to quench both thirst and hunger. Scientific analysis has shown the water to
have high levels of calcium, fluoride, and magnesium salts.
How do Muslims use it?:
During the annual Hajj, pilgrims re-enact many events in the
life of the Prophet Abraham, including Hajar's search for water, by running
between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Pilgrims drink from the spring and perform
ablutions with the water. The water is also believed to have medicinal
qualities, so many pilgrims take liters of Zamzam water back home with them to
drink from time to time, especially when ill.
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