Zamzam water is the best and noblest of all waters, the highest in status, the dearest to people, the most precious and valuable to them. It was dug by Jibreel and is the water with which Allaah quenched the thirst of Ismaa’eel.
The water of Zamzam is water of great virtue which first sprang forth when Jibreel (peace be upon him) struck (the earth) with his wing (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, 3364).
Allaah provided water for Ismaa’eel (peace be upon him) and his mother with it. The heart of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was washed with Zamzam water. Many saheeh ahaadeeth have been narrated concerning its virtues, such as:
Then the difference of Zamzam water compared to other water wells in the city of Mecca and the surrounding Arab is in terms of the quantity of calcium and magnesium salts. The content of both minerals was a bit more on Zamzam water. That’s probably why Zamzam water makes a refreshing effect for the weary pilgrims. Another specialty, the composition and taste of salt content is always stable, always the same since the formation of these wells. “It” is always awake, recognized by all and Umrah pilgrims who come each year.
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 Kaaba'a.
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.
Benefits of drinking Zam-Zam Water
In the last few decades, scientists have collected samples of Zamzam water and they have found certain peculiarities that make the water healthier, like a higher level of calcium.
Apart from its ability to serve as satisfying food and drink,
Zamzam water's health benefits are also commended. The Prophet said it was a healing from sickness. This is why pilgrims to Makkah to this day collect it in bottles to bring for relatives and friends back home who are ill. The Prophet used to carry Zamzam water in pitchers and water skins back to Madinah. He used to sprinkle it over the sick and make them drink it.
