The Ancient History of Some Acts of Worship

Two points can be inferred from God’s command to Prophet Abraham and Ishmael (a.s.) regarding the purification of the Sacred House for those who perform ṭawāf (circumambulation), ʿukūf (staying for worship), rukūʿ (bowing), sujūd (prostration), and prayer: “Purify My House for those who circle around it, and those who stand [for prayer], and those who bow and prostrate” [22:26]. First, it indicates that these forms of worship, such as ṭawāf, ʿukūf, rukūʿ, sujūd, and ṣalāt (prayer), existed even before Islam, although the methods of their performance might have varied across different times. Second, it suggests that certain groups of people were dedicated to these practices, traveling great distances to reach the Kaʿba. Like the residents of the sanctuary, they undertook these acts of worship.