ZAMZAM (WATER OF PURITY)

GROUP-MEMBERS:-1. AFREEN ANWER ESSANI2. ARFA SHAHBUDDIN3. AROOMA SALEEM4. FATIMA SHAHEEN5. HIRA JAVED

COURSE INSTRUCTER:-MISS SAMREEN UZAIR

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

In performing our assignment, we had to take the help and guideline of some respected persons, who deserve our greatest gratitude. The completion of this assignment gives us much Pleasure. Primarily, I would like to extend my profound gratitude to

Ms. Samreen Uzair, Jinnah University for Women, our project supervisor, for her intellectual input, criticism, and comments throughout the drafts of this work up to the final version. Her constructive advice and visionary guidance shaped this work and made it a useful university project material. Without her, this project would not have been as beautifully and academically written as it is now.  We would also like to expand our deepest gratitude to all those who have directly and indirectly guided us in writing this assignment.

Secondly, I wish to express my special thanks to the Dean of Dept. of Business Administration & Commerce, Jinnah University, for provding me with the freedom to use facilities including computer, Internet for Project reference materials, photocopies, papers, printer, just to mention but a few. Without these facilities, my project would have taken much longer, if not expensive to accomplish.

Last but not least, my gratitude wholly is extended to Mr. Anwer Hussain Essani, Mr. Aftab Punjani, Mr. Saleem, Mr. Javed and Mr. Muhammad Ashfaq, Our intellectual fathers who did all they could to enable us pursue higher education. They guided us through rough and tough with parental guidance during the formative stages of our education. The list is long, and those who not included here for one reason or the other, but helped in many ways, are all appreciated.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Allah Ta'ala has made all living creatures out of water. People require water for almost for everything but not all water carries the same value and significance. Muslims refer to the water of Zamzam as something unique. They crave this mysterious liquid and love to drink it whenever they can. And for

those who managed to go to the Hajj, they return home carrying it for thousands of miles as a prized possession and to give as special gift to their friends and families. So what is so special about Zamzam water? In a word: Everything! There is nothing ordinary about it. The miracle of how it came to being in the middle of a desert, its consistency throughout 1000s of years, the beneficial qualities it has, the fact that it never dries up. This water is special. Zam Zam water has scientifically been proven to contain healing qualities due to its higher content of Calcium and Magnesium Salts and also natural fluorides that encompass a germicidal action. It is also an established scientific fact that pools or water wells tend to grow vegetation such as algae-- especially in warm climates. Amazingly this is not the case in the well of Zamzam. It has remained free from biological contaminations.

Zamzam is the name of a famous well in al-Masjid al-Haraam [the Sacred Mosque in Makkah], which is thirty-eight cubits away from the Ka’bah. It is the well from which Allah quenched the thirst of Ismail the son of Ibrahim (peace and blessings of Allah be upon them both) when he was an infant. His mother (Haajra (peace and blessings of Allah be upon her) looked for water for him, but could not find any. She climbed to the top of Mount al-Safaa, praying to Allah to help her and give her water for Ismail, and then she climbed to the top of Mount al-Marwah and did the same. Allah sent Jibreel (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), and he struck the earth, and water appeared. The scholars (may Allah have mercy on them) agreed that it is mustahabb (recommended) for pilgrims on Hajj and ‘Umrah in particular, and for all Muslims in general, to drink Zamzam water, because of the saheeh hadeeth in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have drunk the water of Zamzam. (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 3/492). According to the hadeeth of Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet (peace be upon him) said concerning the water of Zamzam, “It is a blessing, and it is food that satisfies.” (Reported by Muslim, 4/1922). Al-Tayaalisi added, in a version that he narrated: “and a cure for the sick. – but this is when he drinks it with faith and sincerity, as proven in the hadeeth of Abu Dharr al-Ghifaari who stayed in Makkah for a month without any nourishment except Zamzam water.

Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................1

HISTORY…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2

1) The Story Of How It Came To Be.......................................................................2

2) Its Names..........................................................................................................4

3) Positive Energy.................................................................................................4

4) Uncontaminated................................................................................................4

5) Its Purity............................................................................................................5

6) Healing Nature..................................................................................................5

7) The Miracle Of Its Orgin....................................................................................5

8) Hadith Substantiates Its Science.......................................................................5

9) It Manifests For What It Is Drunk.......................................................................6

10) Water Fasting.................................................................................................6

TODAY’S VEIW OF ZAMZAM WATER........................................................................6

ZAMZAM STUDIES AND RESEARCH CENTRE............................................................7

Research issues and objectives.....................................................................................................7Monitoring and managing demand to prevent reduction.........................................................................................................................................7Water Quality Monitoring............................................................................................................9Upgrading of Zam Zam pumping and storage system..........................................................11Optimization of Zam Zam supply and distribution...............................................................11Structure and hydrogeology of the Well..................................................................................11

JAPANESE RESEARCH ON ZAM ZAM...........................................................................................13 ZAMZAM WATER: scientific research findings...............................................................................15 Calcium and Magnesium In ZamZam Water................................................................................16

Fluoride In ZamZam Water........................................................................................................16

ZamZam–Holy or Poisonous................................................................................................................18 Scientific Strength...................................................................................................................................19 CONCLUSION........................................................................................................................................20

INTRODUCTION The Well of Zam Zam  is a well located within the Masjid in Mecca Saudi Arabia, 20 m (66 ft) east of the

Kaaba the holiest place in Islam. According to Islamic belief, it is a miraculously-generated source of water from ALLAH, which began thousands of years ago when Ibrahim infant son Ismail was thirsty and kept crying for water. Millions of pilgrims visit the well each year while performing the hajj or  pilgrimages, in order to drink its

water. Islamic history states that the Zam Zam Well was revealed to hagar , the second wife of Abraham and mother of Ishmael. By the instruction of God, Abraham left his wife and son at a spot in the desert and walked away. She was desperately seeking water for her infant son, but she could not find any, as Mecca is located in a hot dry valley with few sources of water. the mother of ismail followed him, nd said,” where are you going and leaving us in this valley there is nobody and nothing?”Then she said ,” has ALLAH commanded you to do this?” he said,”yes” she said” when ALLAH will not for sake us “Hagar  ran seven times back and forth in the scorching heat between the two hills of Safa and Marwah, looking for water. Getting thirstier by the second, the infant Ishmael scraped the land with his feet, where suddenly water sprang out. There are other versions of the story involving God sending his angel Jabreal   who kicked the ground with his heel or wing(depending on which version of the story) and the water rose. The Zam Zam well was excavated by hand, and is about 30 m (98 ft) deep and 1.08 to 2.66 m (3 ft 7 in to 8 ft 9 in) in diameter. It taps groundwater from the wadi alluvium and some from the bedrock Originally water from the well was drawn via ropes and buckets, but today the well itself is in a basement room where it can be seen behind glass panels (visitors are not allowed to enter). Electric pumps draw the water, which is available throughout the Masjid al-Haram via water fountains and dispensing containers near the Tawaf area Hydrogeo grogically, the well is in the Wadi Ibrahim (Valley of Abraham). The upper half of the well is in the sandy alluvium of the valley, lined with stone masonry except for the top metre (3 ft) which has a concrete "collar". The lower half is in the bedrock. Between the alluvium and the bedrock is a 1⁄2-metre (1 ft 8 in) section of permeable weathered rock, lined with stone, and it is this section that provides the main water entry into the well. Water in the well comes from absorbed rainfall in the Wadi Ibrahim, as well as run-off from the local hills. The water level is 3.23 m (10.6 ft) below the surface. A pumping test at 8,000 liters per second (280 cu ft/s) for more than a 24-hour period showed a drop in water level to 12.72  m (41.7 ft) below the surface and then to 13.39 m (43.9 ft), after which the water level stopped receding. When pumping stopped, the water level recovered to 3.9 m (13 ft) below surface only 11 minutes later . This data shows that the aquifer feeding the well seems to recharge from rock fractures in neighbouring mountains around Mecca.Zam Zam water has no color or smell, but it has a distinct taste, and its pH is 7.9–8.0, indicating that it is alkaline to some extent and is similar to seawater.

HISTORY:

1) THE STORY OF HOW IT CAME TO BE:

The water of Zam Zam is that well / spring which was a comfort and savior of HazratHaajira(Alaihi Salaam), when she was grieved and hopeless. It was the wondrous miracle of HazratJibraeel-e-Ameen (Alaihi Salaam), which is satiating the thirst of the believers of Tauheed, since 2000 years before HazratEsaa (Alaihi Salaam). The magnetic effect of this incomparable water attracted the BanuJurhum to its friends (HadhratIsmaeel and Haajira- Alaihimus Salaam) and made therm a companion to them, and turned this desolate place into the Islamic headquarters.  

The details of this incident are as follows, when HazratEbrahim (Alaihi Salaam) was ordered by AllaahTa'ala to leave his chaste wife, HazratHaajira (Alaiha Salaam) and his innocent baby, HazratIsmaeel (Alaihi Salaam) in the desert of Arabia, with no friend or helper, then the answer to the sustenance of life for this 'forlorn' mother and son was given within a few days. The innocent child was striking his heels upon the ground due to severe thirst. The mother was also becoming restless due to the lack of water, and she ran up one mountain, and down again and ascended the other mountain, in search of water, hoping to find something to sustain the life of her child.  

HazratJibraeel (Alaihi Salaam) made an appearance. With a strike of his heels, or an indication of his hands, or his wings, a spring started flowing. As soon as the water was sighted, HazratHaajira(Alaihi Salaam) was overtaken with joy. Her sadness and despondency was immediately removed and replaced by sheer joy. She quenched her own thirst and that of her child. She filled a container with the water and built a sand wall around the spring in order to dam it up. 

The Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wasalam) said, (may Allah have mercy on the mother of Isma’eel)”If she had left the water, (flow naturally without her intervention), it would have been flowing on the surface of the earth.”

 {Sahih al-Bukhari 3365,Vol. 4, Book 55, Hadith 584}So because of her efforts to contain the water, Zam-zam amazingly became a well.

Hajar-before the water was brought out of the ground, running in search, probably heart-broken and crying in pain at the suffering of her son, did not know what Allah was preserving for her in the future.

If she knew that a time would come when millions from all parts of the world would follow in her footsteps, she

probably may never have cried. And one can only imagine her reward in the hereafter if that were her reward in this world.

So when experiencing challenges in life, remember that Allah may be hiding something for you in your future.

It was the very desire forth is water that attracted the tribe of BanuJurhum here, and led to their settling down, in this area. They stayed and governed the area for 300, and according to some narrations, 500 years. It was the immorality, mischief, and flagrant disobedience of this tribe that led to their disgraceful eviction from the pure land of MakkahShareef. When they left Makkah, they dumped the treasures of the KaabaShareef, its Ghilaaf (covering) and valuable swords into the well of Zam Zam, then they covered it with sand, thereby covering it completely and closing it up. Five hundred years passed upon it in this condition. During this era, its name and signs were completely forgotten and erased. But, when AllaahTa'ala desired to revive this well and satiate the Ummah with it, He used the Quraish and the grandfather of Holy Prophet(ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص), by way of a dream to dig up the well. Abdul Mutallib used to say that one night he had a dream, wherein someone was telling him to dig up 'Tayyibah'. He says that he asked: "What is 'Tayyibah'?" But the person (in his dream), just walked away, without giving a reply. On the following night he said that he had another dream, wherein he was told to dig up 'Maghnoonah'. He says that he asked: "What is'Maghnoonah'?" But, again this person simply disappeared. On the third night he again had a dream wherein he was told to dig up Zam- Zam, and clean it up. He says that, he asked: "What is 'Zam-Zam'?" 

He was then told that it is a well, whose water will never decrease, and that he will find no difficulty in digging it up. Also that he will find no embarrassment in it, and that it is the inheritance of his father. He was told to serve it to the Hajis. Abdul Muttalib, says further that he asked for a sign of the location to this well. He was told that it is at the place where the ant-hills are in abundance. He was also told that when he reaches the place in the morning, he will find a crow pecking at the exact spot, where he is to dig. The next morning, Abdul Mutallib left home towards the Haram Shareef, with his eldest son, Haarith, taking with them a pick-axe and a spade. According to the glad-tidings of Allah (AzzaWaJalla), he saw a crow pecking at a spot between the idols, 'Assaaf' and 'Naila'. There were also many ant-hills around that spot. Following the instructions of Allah Ta'ala, both the father and son started digging.  Even the Quraish, become a hindrance, and objected by saying that this is the sacred place of their idols, and that they will never consent to its being dug up. However, Abdul Mutallib did not listen to any of this and he continued his task. In a short space of time he reached his objective and struck water. He also found the buried treasures of the Jurhum, which they left there, upon their departure from MakkahMukarrama. 

When the Quraish saw that Abdul Mutallib succeeded in his objective and that he unearthed a great treasure, they laid claim to it as being the inheritance of their fore-father, Hazratlsmaeel (Alaihi Salaam). They therefore claimed a stake in it. They also wanted a share in the distribution and protection of the Zam-Zam well, but Abdul-Mutallib rejected their claim and became the sole-custodian of the well. This led to a conflict and they decided to call in a third party, to arbitrate the issue. They decided on the tribe of BanuSa'ad Bin Huzail, which was stationed in Syria. So, Abdul Mutallib and a few persons from every tribe in the Quraish, set out on this journey to Shaam (Syria). The road was long and arduous. There were many caves and mountains along the way. When this caravan reached a certain place, their water stocks dwindled. Thirst was starting to get a hold of them. Those who had some water by them, refused to give it to Abdul Mutallib and his companions, saying that they have become the custodians of the well of Zam-Zam, and yet they are asking for water now. The- situation became very difficult, and they could not even walk any further.

The Power of Allah Ta'ala came into play, when eventually Abdul Mutallib managed to get upon his camel and it stood up, a spring of clear, fresh and sweet water gushed forth, from below, the place where his camel had sat. Out of sheerjoy, Abdul Mutallib screamed out a Takbeer, and all of them drank to their fill, and filled their containers. So much so, that even those who refused to give their water to Abdul-Mutallib, managed to fill their containers. When all of them saw this strange and wonderful scenario, they concluded that their decision was made and their matter resolved. They took an oath that they will never dispute with him regarding the well of Zam-Zam. That same Being Who has blessed you with a spring of water in this desolate desert, is the same One who has blessed you with the well of Zam-Zam. So, instead of going any further, they all turned back to Makkah. This incident occurred about 40 to 70 years prior to the birth of Holy Prophet(ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص). At that time, it was a simple well surrounded by a fence of stones. Then in the era of the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur 771 AD a dome was built above the well, and it was tiled with marble. In 775 AD, Al-Mahdi rebuilt the well during his caliphate, and built a dome of teak which was covered with mosaic. One small dome covered the well, and a larger dome covered the room for the pilgrims. In 835 AD there was further restoration, and the dome was covered with marble during the caliphate of Al-Mu'tasim.

In 1417 AD, during the time of the Mamluks, the mosque was damaged by fire, and required restoration. Further restoration occurred in 1430 AD,and again in 1499 during the time of Sultan Qaitbay, when the marble was replaced.

In modern times, the most extensive restoration took place to the dome during the era of the Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II in 1915 AD. To facilitate crowd control, the building housing the Zam Zam was moved away from its original location, to get it out of the way of the Tawaf, when millions of pilgrims would circumambulate the KaabaShareef. The water of the well is now pumped to the eastern part of the mosque, where it was made available in separate locations for men and women.

2) ITS NAMES

The names of Zam-zam are many, over 60 according to some experts and scientists, its names derived from its characteristics. Some of the familiar ones are:

Murwiya (derived from the Arabic word meaning ‘quenched’)

Shabbaa’a- (derived from ‘satisfying’)

Maymouna

3) POSITIVE ENERGY

Within Zam-zam is an ingredient different to other waters, which heals and helps energetic and cell systems within the human body. The German Scientist Dr Knut Pfeiffer,and head of the largest medical centre in Munich, has studied Zam-zam with his colleague and assistant Husam Othman. A miracle in itself is that the Zam-zam specimen they studied still extraordinarily increased dramatically the energetic fields in human cells having travelled from Saudi Arabia to Munich, sustaining climate changes, probably having gone through an X-ray machine at customs, and then being stored for approximately two weeks. The opposite reaction would exhibit with other types of water especially if stagnant for some time, including water from Munich which is considered chemically pure.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The best water on the face of the earth is the water of Zam-zam; it is a kind of food and a healing from sickness.”

{Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3302}

4) UNCONTAMINATED

Zam-zam has been flowing from the Ka’aba for over 4000 years. Samples taken from all water sources in the world contain some germs in it. Through studies by Doctor Yahya Koshak (expert on Zam-zam) it has been proven that Zam-zam does not contain any contaminants. It is an established scientific fact that pools or water wells tend to grow vegetation such as algae– especially in warm climates. Amazingly this is not the case in the well of Zam-zam. It has remained free from biological contaminations.

5) ITS PURITY

Evian – water from the highest part of the French Alps is renowned for its high mineral content and purity, and high percentage of bicarbonates (357mg/l). 

Murwiya contains 366mg/l of bicarbonates, and is purer, in fact the purest water on earth.

6) HEALING NATURE

Scientific proof shows that Zam-zam contains healing components due to its higher content of calcium and magnesium salts and natural fluorides which present germicidal properties.

It was reported in Sahih Muslim that the Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said to Abu Dhār, who had stayed near the Ka’bah and its coverings for forty days and nights with no food or drink other than (Zam Zam): “How long have you been here?” Abu Dhār said, “I have been here for thirty days and nights.” The Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Who has been feeding you?” He said, “I have had nothing but Zam Zam water, and I have gotten so fat that I have folds of fat on my stomach. I do not feel any of the tiredness or weakness of hunger and I have not

become thin.” The Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Verily, it is blessed, it is food that nourishes.”{Narrated by Imam Muslim, 2473}

7) THE MIRACLE OF ITS ORIGIN Mecca is built on a mass of igneous rock, and due to the process in which they form, these rocks have no pores and

due to partial melting of the minerals of which the rock comprises -cause any existing pores to close up. Science tells us that water reservoirs can only exist in rocks that are highly porous and permeable. Geologist Dr Zaghloul Al-Najjar, head of The Committee of Scientific Signs in the Quran and Sunnah states that this simple and great fact verifies the sanctity and holiness of the land

According to Arab historians, the Zam Zam Well, except for a few periods when it became dry or was buried under sand, has been in use for around 4000 years. The well marks the site of a spring that, miraculously, had issued forth from a barrenand desolate wadi (non perennial stream) where the Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon him-pbuh), under Allah's command, had left his wife Hajar and their infant son Ismail (pbuh). In her desperate search for water,

Hajar ran seven times back and forth in the scorching heat between the two hills of Safa and Marwa to look for water for Ismail (pbuh), who was dying of thirst, and also to look for passing karawans for help.. Allah, in His mercy, sent the AngelGabriel, who scraped the ground, causing the spring to appear. On finding the spring, and fearing that it might run out of water,Hajar enclosed it in sand and stones. The name Zam Zam originates from the phrase Zomë Zomë, meaning ‘stop flowing’, a command repeated by Hajar during her attempt to contain the spring water. The area around the spring, which was later converted to a well, became a resting place for caravans, and eventually grew into the trading city of Makkah, birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) later returned to rebuild Ka’ba, the first Bait-ul-Allah (House of Allah), originally said to have been built by Adam (pbuh). It is the holiest Muslim shrine. The Ka’ba now stands in the center of the Holy Mosque, also called Al-Haram. The Zam Zam well is located within the Holy Mosque at about 20 m east of the Ka’ba. 

All able-bodied Muslims with sufficient financial means are obliged to make the pilgrimage to Makkah, known as the Hajj at least once in lifetime. During the Hajj, pilgrims perform a number of rituals in the Al-Haram and outside Makkah at Muna, Arafat, and Muzdalifa. One of the rituals known as the Umrah, includes Tawaf (seven times circling) of Ka’ba and Sai between the hills of Safa and Marwa, which is to re-enact Hajar’s search for water. Hajj is performed on specific dates during Dhu Al-Hijja the last month of the Islamic year while Umrah is optional and can be performed at any time of the year. Millions of Muslims visit Makkah to perform Umrah and Hajj throughout the year; the peak season being the month of Ramadan and Dhu al Hijja. Visitors cherish drinking Zam Zam water during their visit and carry it back home. 8) HADITH SUBSTANTIATES ITS SCIENCE

Origins of the water was a mystery until tunnels were dug around Makkah, where engineers and workers found hairline fractures in the solid mass of rock that stretched for kilometers in either direction through which Zam-zam was seeping out, extensive fractures which could only be caused by a mighty impact. Sunnah states that it’s because of the strong blow with which Jibra’eel Alayhis salam struck the earth that Isma’eel Alayhis salaam was able to drink.The well isn’t that deep, 30 metres in fact of which 13 metres or a little less are filled with compressed sediments from the valley which don’t allow water to flow out.Below this is about 17 metres of igneous rock through which the water flows through these long hairline fractures in the

rock, where it gains its high mineral content beneficial to both the body and soul of man.

9) It Manifests for what it is Drunk

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The water of Zam Zam is for whatever it is drunk for.”

{Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 3062}

This is a hasan hadeeth.A myriad of cases exist that testify to the healing nature of Zam-zam. Drinking Zam-zam with the sincere intention of fulfilling a need, such as healing a physical ailment, being freed from poverty or distress, even achieving calm in the wake of any type of anxiety, gives way to Allah fulfilling these needs.One could continue drinking it until one is completely healed.The Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasalam used to wash his chest with Zam-zam to gain courage and relieve anxiety through Allah’s grace,  before visiting the heavens; he would drink it and use it for Wudhu. 10) WATER FASTING

Water fasting isn’t something new, and has even been done during the time of the Prophet (Sallalahu alayhi wasalam). Revisit the hadith in point 6:It was reported in Sahih Muslim that the Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said to Abu Dhār, who had stayed near the Ka’bah and its coverings for forty days and nights with no food or drink other than (Zam Zam): “How long have

you been here?” Abu Dhār said, “I have been here for thirty days and nights.” The Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Who has been feeding you?” He said, “I have had nothing but Zam Zam water, and I have gotten so fat that I have folds of fat on my stomach. I do not feel any of the tiredness or weakness of hunger and I have not become

thin.” The Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Verily, it is blessed, it is food that nourishes.”{Narrated by Imam Muslim, 2473}

Some of the positivebenefits of a 48 hour Zam-zam fast are an increase in the number of blood platelets and increased immunity through an increase in white blood cells, as well as a detoxifying effect on the body.Murwiya (Zam-zam) also increases hemoglobin levels, which result in increased energy levels. Testimonials state that these fasts eradicate morning breath, and hunger pangs, also providing a noticeable nourishing effect on the body

TODAY’S VEIW OF ZAM ZAM WATER:

The Zam Zam well testifies what the blessed Prophet (Peace be upon him) said that when the spring appeared under the feet of the infant Ismail, his mother, Hazrat Hajira, while trying to contain the water with her hands, said "Zam Zam." Had she not said this, with Allah's mercy this water would have sufficed the whole of humanity.

Today, Zam Zam water is supplied to 2.2 million Hajis during the Haj season and to Madina. All the laws of hydraulics and ground-water flow have failed in the case of Zam Zam, a living miracle in witness to the truth of Islam. Zam Zam tastes slightly different from fresh water due to the presence of calcium and magnesium salts. These salts help to take away the feeling of tiredness and refresh its users. It is a common for returning Hajis who take Zam Zam to their places to find it fresh on its use even after many years.

There is no other well in Makkah valley with the same characteristics as Zam Zam. Few wells that exist have a very small discharge with typical desert characteristics.

Any open well in the world, after a few years, suffers from the growth of algae, making water unpalatable and causing taste and odour problems. Here, Zam Zam has been operational for fourteen centuries without any biological or algae growth, and remains in use without any kind of treatment (recently chlorination is being done by Saudi authorities).

In Zam Zam there lies a sign for those who seek the truth about Islam, and the truthfulness of Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him); of Allah, the Creator of the laws of hydraulics and ground-water flow and the well of Zam Zam.

ZAM ZAM STUDIES AND RESEARCH CENTRE

Unlike other geological surveys worldwide, the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) faces a number of unique responsibilities that arise from its being the major national earth science body of the Kingdom. Foremost of these

special responsibilities are the obligations it has towards the well being and prosperity of the two holiest cities of Islam, Makkah al Mukarramah (Makkah the Holy) and Madinah al Munawarrah (Madinah the Illuminated).

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, his Father His Majesty King Abdulaziz and all the kings that followed him have taken keen interest in the affairs of Muslims all over the world. Special attention was given in the matters relating to the two Holy Cities where millions of Muslims make pilgrimage; hence the various extensions of the two Holy mosques through the Saudi period. The Zam Zam well, which is located within the precinct of the Holy Mosque in Makkah, is important to Muslims because of its miraculous origin. Muslims cherish water from this well, and hence Their Majesties’ continued special interest in and attention to Zam Zam in all its aspects.

The Zam Zam Studies and Research Center (ZSRC) was created by SGS to secure the supply, in terms of quality and quantity, of Zam Zam water. As a result the Center has set up a series of investigative projects to define, quantify, and monitor the water source, and provide the information needed to manage and sustain supplies in the face of increasing demand by residents and pilgrims.

Research issues and objectivesZam Zam Studies and Research Center (ZSRC) at SGS is to provide the required scientific solutions for effective monitoring and management of the aquifer feeding the Zam Zam well and to ensure the purity and security of supply. The Center is currently focusing on the following aspects of management of the aquifer, the well and the Zam Zam supply and distribution system:-Monitoring and managing demand to prevent depletion,-Urbanization of the Wadi Ibrahim catchment and its effect on recharge,-Management of storm drainage in relation to recharge,-Maintaining groundwater movement and quality through building controls,-Upgrading of the Zam Zam pumping and storage system,-Optimization of Zam Zam supply and distribution,-Quality control and quality assurance of operating and maintenance of filtering and storage plants at Makkah and MadinahMonitoring and managing demand to prevent reductionWith the increasing accessibility of affordable air travel, the number of Muslims visiting the Holy City of Makkah has risen dramatically over the past 3 decades, from around 400,000 per year in the mid seventies to over several millions since the Mid Nineties.Water levels in the Zam Zam Well were formerly monitored by a simple drum hydrograph, but this has now been replaced by a more sophisticated real-time multi-parameter monitoring system, which makes digital records of water level, electric conductivity, pH, Eh and Temperature, etc. The Datalogger is accessible by SGS through phone cable and the data can be examined and downloaded without going to the well. A network of other monitoring wells has also been installed throughout Wadi Ibrahim to monitor the response of the entire aquifer system to the recharge and discharge. Some of these wells are fitted with automatic digital water level recorders.

Datalogger installed near the well to monitor water level, temperature, electric conductivity, TDS, pH, density, etc.

With the increasing number of visitors, demand for Zam Zam water was continually increasing. ZSRC's task is to estimate sustainable well yield and recommend measures to control further increase in demand to ensure that sustainable supply limits are not exceeded. Thus ZSRC advises Al-Haram Authority regularly on the maintenance of optimum production and the dynamic water level in the Zam Zam well. In the beginning of the year SGS provides pumping schedule and the optimum monthly production depending upon demand which is the highest in the months of Ramadan and Dhu Al-Hijja and the lowest in Muharram. A threshold water level in the well is maintained. If the water level goes below this level the pumping is stopped, water level is allowed to recover, and then pumping is resumed. The annual discharge from the well is restricted to around 500,000 m3. However, this limit can be modified if hydrological condition so permit. For example, due to last year 's high rainfall the augmented aquifer recharge allowed proposed production increase by about 92000 m3 for the year 1432 AH.

ZSRC member collecting water sample, and manually monitoring water level by electric dip meter for calibration of datalogger. In the background is the pumping system in the glass closet

Water Quality MonitoringOne of the mains tasks of ZSRC is to monitor the hydrochemical and microbial characteristics of Zam Zam. ZSRC has been monitoring Zam Zam water quality for years. Every week water samples are collected from the Zam Zam well and the various outlets including thermoses and water taps in Al-Haram, and Sabeel Kudai and Khazzan outlets. Samples are analyzed for chemical and microbial components. Zam Zam water is filtered through a series of sand filters and cartridge filters, and then sterilized by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation at these treatment plants before distribution to consumers. Al-Haram Authority is advised to take action if and when some unexpected adverse component is detected.

Sampling Zam Zam water from the thermoses in Al-Haram for microorganism analyses

Monitoring Ultraviolet irradiation for deactivating bacteria in Zam Zam water

Zam Zam water is supplied daily by tankers to Masjid Nabavi at Madinah Al-Munawarrah. Before, filling the thermoses and supplying to public outlet Zam Zam water is again treated by UV process. ZSRC regularly inspects this treatment and distribution system and advises the managers on improvements and streamlining the system.

Inspection of quartz sleeve of UV unit Inspection of Clean cartridge FilterInspection of Zam Zam public outlet at Madinah Al-MunawarahUpgrading of Zam Zam pumping and storage systemIn order to manage demand water from Zam Zam well is pumped, treated, and stored in underground storage tanks on a continual basis. Before distribution to consumers and transportation to Madinah Zam Zam water is treated by a series of sand filters, micro filters and ultraviolet disinfection. Zam Zam Studies and Research Center is engaged in design of upgrading the treatment system. Already, two phases of upgrading have been completed and the third phase is in active consideration. Moreover, the Center strictly follows these activities and ensures strict quality assurance measures.

Optimization of Zam Zam supply and distributionAll visitors carry Zam Zam water back home usually in plastic containers of 10 or 20 liters size, which they fill themselves from several filling points, situated around the Al-Haram and at a central filling station. But, more commonly they buy the filled containers from roadside venders on the outskirts of Makkah. This distribution system is wanting in hygiene and offsets the efforts of treatment. Recently, under the instruction of His Majesty King Abdullah, Khadim Al-Haramain Sharifain, the Saudi Government has constructed a treatment and bottling plant for supplying 20-liter bottles to Umrah and Hajj visitors

Structure and hydrogeology of the WellZam Zam Well is hand-dug and is about 30.5 m deep, with an internal diameter ranging from

1.08 to 2.66 m. Hydrogeologically, the well lies within Wadi Ibrahim, which runs through the Holy City of Makkah, and taps groundwater from the wadi alluvium and, to a much lesser extent, the underlying fresh bedrock. The well is now housed in a basement room, protected by glass panels that allow a clear view of the well.

 

Electric pumps are used to draw water from the well, replacing the ropes and buckets of the olden days. No visitor is

allowed to enter the Zam Zam Well room and surroundings. Outside

this room, there was a service area, where cold Zam Zam water fountains and dispensing containers were provided for drinking purposes. Recently, the Al-Haram Tawaf area has been extended to cover the entrance to this area and it is no more accessible to pilgrims. Instead, cold Zam Zam water fountains and dispensing containers are now placed at the periphery of Tawaf area and within the Grand Mosque, and open piazzas or Al-Sahat surrounding the Al-Haram building Moreover, a bottling plant and public distribution Sabeel have been established at Kudai, south of Al-Haram for the visitors who want to carry Zam Zam home. 

The upper 13.5 m of the well is excavated in the sandy alluvium of the Wadi Ibrahim, and the lower 17.0 m in the underlying diorite bedrock. In between lies a 0.5 m thick highly permeable weathered rock. Most of the alluvial section of the well is lined with stone masonry except for the uppermost 1 m, which has a reinforced concrete collar. The weathered rock section is lined with stone and it is this section that provides the main water entry into the well.

Zam Zam water entering the well from the stony horizon

The Zam Zam well was excavated by hand, and is about 30 m (98 ft) deep and 1.08 to 2.66 m (3 ft 7 in to 8 ft 9 in) in diameter. It taps groundwater from the wadi alluvium and some from the bedrock. Originally water from the well was drawn via ropes and buckets, but today the well itself is in a basement room where it can be seen behind glass panels (visitors are not allowed to enter). Electric pumps draw the water, which is available throughout the Masjid al-Haram via water fountains and dispensing containers near the Tawaf area.Hydrogeologically, the well is in the Wadi Ibrahim (Valley of Abraham). The upper half of the well is in the sandy alluvium of the valley, lined with stone masonry except for the top 1-metre (3 ft 3 in) which has a concrete "collar". The lower half is in the bedrock. Between the alluvium and the bedrock is a 1⁄2-metre (1 ft 8 in) section of permeable weathered rock, lined with stone, and it is this section that provides the main water entry into the well. Water in the well comes from absorbed rainfall in the Wadi Ibrahim, as well as run-off from the local hills. Since the area has become more and more settled, water from absorbed rainfall on the Wadi Ibrahim has decreased.

The Saudi Geological Survey has a "Zam Zam Studies and Research Centre" which analyses the technical properties of the well in detail. Water levels were monitored by hydrograph, which in more recent times has changed to a digital monitoring system that tracks the water level, electric conductivity, pH, Eh, and temperature. All of this information is made continuously available via the Internet. Other wells throughout the valley have also been established, some with digital recorders, to monitor the response of the local aquifer system.The water level is 3.23 m (10.6 ft) below the surface. A pumping test at 8,000 litres per second (280 cu ft/s) for more than a 24 hour period showed a drop in water level from 3.23 m (10.6 ft) below surface to 12.72 m (41.7 ft) and then to 13.39 m (43.9 ft), after which the water level stopped receding. When pumping stopped, the water level recovered to 3.9 m (13 ft) below surface only 11 minutes later. This data shows that the aquifer feeding the well seems to recharge from rock fractures in neighbouring mountains around Mecca.Zam Zam water has no colour or smell, but it has a distinct taste, and its pH is 7.9–8.0, indicating that it is alkaline to some extent and is similar to seawater.Minerals Mass concentration as reported by researchers at King Saud University.

• Sodium 133 mg/L (4.8×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Calcium 96 mg/L (3.5×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Magnesium 38.88 mg/L (1.405×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Potassium 43.3 mg/L (1.56×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Bicarbonate 195.4 mg/L (7.06×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Chloride 163.3 mg/L (5.90×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Fluoride 0.72 mg/L (2.6×10−8 lb/cu in)

• Nitrate 124.8 mg/L (4.51×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Sulfate 124.0 mg/L (4.48×10−6 lb/cu in)

• Total dissolve alkalinity 835 mg/L (3.02×10−5 lb/cu in)

JAPANESE RESEARCH ON ZAM ZAM Science, at a very later stage, reveals new secrets about Zam Zam water and the way it is influenced by the

verses of the Glorious Quran.

We have recently realized the value of the use of amulets. It has been scientifically proven that water is affected by

what is recited over it. Japanese scientist Masaru Emoto has had a unique experience. He said that he had read in a

book that each snowflake falling from the sky is unique. He said that his scientific instincts told him that this was no

t true. The geometric shape of the snowflake is determined by its chemical composition. The composition of water is

well known – two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. So how come snowflakes that fall from the sky are different

from one another? He said: “I was determined to prove that this theory was false.” He built a laboratory, consisting of a

deep freezer with a regulator, because no liquid, subjected to sudden freezing, can assume a geometric shape. The freezing

must be slow, so the atoms have the chance to crystallize into the shape decreed by God. There was a deep freezer with a

regulator, a cold room at the temperature of -7°C, and several microscopes equipped with cameras, so he could photograph

the snowflake before it melted. The scientists working in this room wore warm clothing. He said: “I took samples from two

faucets in the laboratory, I froze them, and each sample gave me a different snowflake. The samples came from two

different wells, two different rivers, from two different lakes. I almost went crazy and thought this was witchcraft.”

A Saudi student at the University of Tokyo happened to meet him, and asked him what was wrong. Masaru told

him his problem. The student said to him: “We have blessed water, called Zam Zam water. I will give you a sample of this

water so you can experiment on it. Zam Zam water is not affected by witchcraft or Jinns, so using it can prove or disprove the

whole theory.” Emoto took a sample of Zam Zam water, and said: “I couldn’t crystallize it, even by diluting the water by

1,000.” In other words, he turned one cubic centimeter into one liter.

He said that when he diluted the water by 1,000 and froze it, he got a uniquely-shaped crystal. Two crystals were

formed, one on top of the other, but they assumed a unique form. When he asked his Muslim colleague why there were

two crystals, he told him it was because “Zam Zam” is composed of two words: “Zam” and “Zam.”

Masaru Emoto said: “My Muslim colleague offered to recite Quranic verses over the water. He brought a tape

-recorder and played some Quranic verses, and we got the most perfectly-shaped crystals. Then he played the 99 names

of Allah (The Almighty). Each name produced a uniquely-shaped crystal. When Dr. Emoto completed these experiments,

which lasted 15 years, he published a five-volume book called “Messages from Water“. He wrote: “I have proven that

water, that peculiar liquid, is capable of thinking, fathoming, feeling, getting excited, and expressing itself.”

Following was written Dr. Masaru Emoto:

The quality/purity of Zam Zam water has, will not be find any where else in the water on this earth.

He used the technology named NANO, and researched a lot on Zam Zam water. And found out that if one drop of

Zam Zam water mix in 1000 drops of regular water, regular water will get the same quality like Zam Zam water.

He also found that a mineral in one drop of Zam Zam water has its own importance that will not be find any other

water on this earth.He also found in some tests that the quality or ingredients of Zam Zam water can not be changed,

why, science does not know the reason.Even he re-cycled the Zam Zam water, but no change it was still pure.

This scientist also found out that, the Muslims say BISMILLAH before eating/drinking. He says that

after saying BISMILLAH on regular water, there are some strange changes happened in the quality of regular water.

That make it best water.He also found out that if someone recites the Quran on regular water, it gets the ability for

the treatment of different diseases.Subhan’Allah!!! Surely this is a Miracle of Allah’s..

Zam Zam water level is around 10.6 feet below the surface. It is the miracle of Allah that when Zam Zam

was pumped continuously for more than 24 hours with a pumping rate of 8,000 liters per second, water level

dropped to almost 44 feet below the surface, BUT WHEN THE PUMPING WAS STOPPED, the level immediately

elevated again to 13 feet after 11 minutes.

8,000 liters per second means that

8,000 x 60 = 480,000 liters per minute

480,000 liters per minutes means

that 480,000 x 60 = 28.8 Million liters per hour

And 28.8 Million liters per hour

means that 28,800,000 x 24 = 691.2 Million liters per day

So they pumped 690 Million liters of Zam Zam in 24 hours, but it was re-supplied in 11 minutes only.

There are 2 miracles here, the first that Zam Zam was re-filled immediately, & the second is that Allah Holds the

extra-ordinarily powerful Aquifer for not throwing extra Zam Zam out of the well, otherwise the world will SINK.

Allah says in the Holy Quran? ““We will soon show them our signs in the Universe and in their own souls, until

it will become quite clear to them that it is the truth. Is it not sufficient as regards your Lord that He is a witness over all

things.

Another reaseach on Zam Zam also showed amazing results

ZAMZAM WATER: scientific research findings

Research by Tariq Hussain, Riyadh, by Moinuddin Ahmed

Came the hajj season, and I am reminded of the wonders of zamzam water.

Let me go back to how it all started. In 1971, an Egyptian doctor worte to the europen press, a letter saying that zamzam

water was not fit for drinking purposes. I immediately thought that this was just a form of prejudice against the muslim

and that since his statement was based on the assumption that since Ka’aba was a shallow place (below sea level) and

located in the center of the Makkah, the wastewater of the city collecting through the drains fell into the well holding the

water.

Fortunately, the news came to King Faisal’s ears that got extremely angry and decided to disprove the Egyptian

doctor’s provocative statement. He immediately ordered the ministry of agriculture and water resources to investigate and

send sample of zamzam water to European laboratories for testing the portability of the water.

The ministry then instructed the Jeddah power and desalination plants to carry out this task. It was here that I was

employed as a desalting engineer ( chemical engineer to produce drinking water from sea water). I was chosen to carry

out this assignment. At this stage, I remember that I had no idea what the well holding the water looked like. I went to

Makkah and reported to the authorities at the ka’aba explaining my purpose of visit.

They deputed a man to give me whatever help was required. When we reached the well, it was hard for me to

believe that a pool of water, more like a small pond, about 18 by 14 feet, was the well that supplied millions of gallons

of water every year to hajis ever since it came into existences at the time of Hazrat Ibrahim(A.S) many, many centuries ago.

I started my investigations and took the dimensions of the well. I asked the man to show me the depth of the

well. First he took a shower and descended into the water. Then he straightened his body. I saw that the water level; came

up to just above his shouleders. His height was around five feet, eight inches. He then started moving from one corner to

the other in the well ( standing all the while since he was not allowed to dip his head into the water ) in search of any inlet

or pipeline inside the well to see from where the water came in. however, the man reported that he could not find any inlet

or pipeline inside the well.

I thought of another idea. The water could be withdrawn rapidly with the help of a big transfer pump which was installed

at the well for the zamzam water storage tanks.

In this way, the water level would drop enabling us to locate the point of entry of the water. Surprisingly, nothing was

observed during the pumping period, but I knew that this was the only method by which you could find the entrance of the

water to the well.

So I decided to repeat the process. But this time I instructed the man to stand still at one place and carefully observe any

unusual thing happening inside the well.

After a while, he suddenly raised his hands and shouted “Alhamdulillah! I have found it. The sand is dancing beneath my

feet as the water oozes out of the bed of the well”.

Then he moved around the well during the pumping period and noticed the same phenomenon everywhere in the well.

Actually the flow of water into the well through the bed was equal at every point, thus keeping the level of water steady.

After finish my observations I took the sample of the water for European laboratories to test.

Before I left the Ka’aba Shareef I asked the authorities about the other wells around Makkah. I was told that these wells

were mostly dry. when I reached my office in Jeddah. I reported my finding to my boss who listened with great interest but

made a very irrational comment that the zamzam well would be internally connected to red sea. How it possible was when

Makkah is about 75 km away from the sea n the well was located before the city usually remains dry?

The results of the water samples tested by the European laboratories and the one we analyzed in our own laboratory were

found to be almost identical

CALCIUM AND MAGNESUIM IN ZAMZAM WATER:-

The difference between zamzam water and other water (city water) was in the quantity of calcium and magnesium salt.

The content of this was slightly higher in zamzam water. This may be why this water refreshes tired hajis

FLOURIDE IN ZAMZAM WATER:-

But more significantly the water contains fluoride that have an effective germicidal more over the remarks, of the

European laboratories showed that the water was fit for drinking

Hence the statement made by the Egyptian doctor was proofed false. When this was reported to king faisal he was extremely

pleased and ordered the contradiction of the report in the European press. In a way, it was a blessing that this study was

undertaken to show the chemical composition of the water.

In fact, the more you explore, the more wonders surface and you find yourself believing implicitly in the miracles

of this water that Allah ta’ala best over bestowed as a gift on the faithful coming from far and wide to the desert land for

Pilgrimage.

LET BE SUM UP SOME OF THE FEATURES OF ZAMZAM WATER NEVER DRIED UP:-

This well has never dried up. On the contrary it has always fulfill demand for water SAME SALT COMPOSTION:-

It has always maintained the same salt composition and taste ever since it came into existence. PORTABILITY:-

Its portability has always been universally recognized as pilgrims from all over the world visit Ka’aba every year for hajj and Umrah, but has never complained about it. Instead, they have always enjoyed the water that refreshes them.

UNIVERSAL TASTE:-Water tastes different at different places. Zamzam water’s has always been universal

NO BIOLOGICAL GROWTH:-

This water has never been chemically treated or chlorinated as is the case with water pumped into the cities. Biological

vegetation usually takes place in most wells. This make the water and palatable owning to the growth of algae causing

taste and odor problems. But in the case of zamzam water well, there wasn’t any sign of biological growth

Centuries ago Bibi Haajra A.S search desperately for water in the hills of saffa and marwa to give her newly born son

Hazrat Ismail A.S as she ran from one place to another in search of water, her child rubbed his feet against the sand. A

pool of water surface, and by the grace of Allah Ta’ala , shaped itself into a well which came to be called zamzam water.

{may be appreciate and use the great ni’amh of Allah ta’ala}

This research slowed the results that zamzam water if fit for drinking purpose.

Yet, Another review is a bit opposed although Zam Zam water is so much blessed that nobody can even point

on its purity ;but there are some inhumane people who voluntary support to stop the people from getting the blessings of

this water. You can take a look at this report.

Zam Zam – Holy or Poisonous?

The BBC has recently highlighted concerns surrounding Zam Zam water that it is contaminated with harmful elements.[1] In an undercover investigation, they exposed the illegal selling of Zam Zam water in Islamic Bookshops and following analysis of the water being sold, they found high levels of nitrate and levels of arsenic three times above the maximum permitted level. Moreover, they asked an undercover pilgrim to retrieve some Zam Zam water from the source, and they found the composition of this water to be similar to that being sold in the UK. 

Despite performing such a covert ‘sting’ operation, maybe one should try to give the BBC the benefit of doubt. Perhaps the sole purpose of conducting such an investigation is that the BBC genuinely cares about the health and wellbeing of the British Muslim Community, as opposed to using Islam yet again as the journalist’s trump card to boost television ratings.The investigation performed by the Beeb actually has far wider implications than merely protecting the health of British Muslims. Their findings suggest that the monitoring of Zam Zam water is either non-existant or wholly inadequate and

that the research which is being done on the properties of Zam Zam is not robust in its nature. In addition, as Zam Zam water is consumed by Muslims worldwide, the statement made by the president of the Association of Public Analysts that he “certainly would not recommend drinking it” goes totally against the belief of Muslims. Whilst Muslims may have differences on a number of issues, the belief in the miraculous nature of Zam Zam is something that unites Muslims around the world.It is therefore paramount that if the Beeb is publicising such a high profile scientific argument that Zam Zam water is contaminated, the investigations should have been submitted for publication in a high impact journal in the relevant field. In doing so, their investigation would have gone through a robust peer review process, comparing their findings and methodology to existing literature in the field of investigation. The purpose of such a process is to ensure quality of scientific data, and eliminate all bias in scientific publications. Unfortunately the investigators have failed to follow this established protocol of entering into scientific debate on a matter. Based on this alone, one would have to conclude that the Beeb has been irresponsible in exposing the ‘contamination’ of Zam Zam on investigations which have not been peer-reviewed and thus potentially subject to bias.

The argument put forward by the BBC may be strengthened by the declaration from the Food Standards Agency that Zam Zam water being sold in the UK contains high levels of nitrate and arsenic. They further state that the risk posed to occasional drinking of the water by adults and older children would be very low.[2] However, such declerations do not seem to have been made by other similar agencies throughout the world. In fact Michael Herndon of the Food and Drug Authority in the United States made a statement in 2005 that the FDA has “..not heard any health alerts regarding Zam Zam water in US markets” and “If we thought there was a problem, we would alert the borders before the product enters the country”.[3]Since then, the FDA has not made statements on its potential harmful effects. In addition, the World Health Organisation is yet to make a statement on the contamination of Zam Zam water. If the consumption of the water is a potential worldwide health concern, as depicted by the BBC, the fact that the WHO has totally neglected this implies that they have either demonstrated sheer incompetence, or that they do not feel there is sufficient evidence to make such claims.Whilst the BBC can be criticised for publicising scientific information which has neither been peer reviewed nor been validated by consensus amongst similar bodies around the world, it is important for the Muslim community not to react to such claims emotionally. There may well be some truth in what the BBC has unearthed, and it is therefore important to examine their claims through the lens of science.    Scientific Strength?Arsenic is a heavy metal which exists in organic and inorganic forms. It occurs naturally in bedrock, where it dissolves readily into ground water through weathering or volcanic eruptions. It may also enter the water system through anthropogenic processes such as mining activities, the use of pesticides and the burning of fossil fuels with high arsenic content. In such instances, arsenic may be transported through long distances as particles in air or water.[4][5] Long term arsenic exposure may lead to Arsenicosis, which is typified by skin problems, cancer (particularly urological cancers), and diseases of the blood vessels of the legs and feet[6].Nitrate is the most frequently introduced pollutant into the groundwater system[7]. Nitrate contamination usually occurs from diffuse sources such as intensive agriculture and unsewered sanitation in densely populated regions or point sources such as irrigation of land by sewage effluent[8][9][10]. The adverse health effects of high nitrate levels are well known. It may be particularly dangerous to infants, by affecting the ability of blood to release oxygen to surrounding tissues (methaeglobinaemia).[11] Nitrates are also associated with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and colorectal cancer[12].The World Health Organisation has published standards for drinking water, stating that levels of arsenic should not exceed 10 µg/l[13]  and nitrate should not exceed 50mg/l[14]. The maxmimum level for nitrate is based upon epidemiological studies in which methaeglobinaemia was not reported in infants in areas where drinking water contained less than 50mg of nitrate per litre. However, the WHO state that with regards to arsenic there remains ‘considerable uncertainty’ over the actual risks at low concentrations. They have also said that in many countries the guideline value may not be attainable, and if this is the case, then every effort must be made to keep concentrations as low as possible.[15] Whilst it is quite clear that extremely high levels of arsenic in drinking water can be detrimental to health (as evident in endemic areas such as South America, Bangaldesh and Nepal), the effect of chronic low level exposure is not so clear. Therefore, the labelling of Zam Zam water as poisonous on account of its arsenic content (which would at most be 30µg/l if we are to take the BBCs investigation as evidence) is perhaps an over-confident statement when one considers that the body setting the standard itself is uncertain on the matter.

The Saudi Geological Survery has a department dedicated to research on Zam Zam water.[16] It is however unfortunate that there has been very little contribution from this department to the scientific literature on the composition of Zam Zam water. Whilst the Saudi Geological Survey ought to be congratulated for their efforts in monitoring the water through the King Abdullah Zam Zam Water Distribution Centre, it is a shame they cannot back their statements that the Holy Water is ‘not contaminated’ with valid scientific evidence.  In fact, there generally is a paucity of high quality scientific analysis of Zam Zam water. As such, there is no ‘official’ statement on the exact composition of the water, and perhaps this information needs to be publicised given its mass consumption. Of the very few studies available, the analysis by Naeem et al[18] found levels of toxic elements including arsenic to be below the danger level of human consumption. However, the standard which they were testing against is unclear. A further study examined the level of nitrate in various parts of Saudi Arabia, and the found the average amount of nitrate in the wells of Mecca to be 41.8mg/l, with 21 out of 85 wells having nitrate levels above 45mg/l (which is 5mg/l less than the WHO limit)[19]. However, their studydoes not clarify whether they have included the Zam Zam well in their analysis. More recently, the Saudi Gazette reported that the King Fahad University for Petroleum and Mineral Resources perfomed tests on Zam Zam water using the latest technology and they concluded that the water is fit for human consumption[20]. However, perhaps the Saudi Gazette may be just as guilty as the BBC in reporting on an investigation which doesn’t seem to have been peer reviewed and published.Alongside the provision of such data, it would also be prudent to look at epidemiological data on the occurrence of arsenicosis and methaeglobinaemia in areas where Zam Zam is consumed in high volumes, namely Mecca and Medina. Whilst the occurrence of arsenicosis is well documented in Bangladesh and the Far East[21][22][23], there is no published epidemiological data on the occurrence of these conditions in the Arab peninsula and furthermore, there is no epidemiological study on the occurrence of methaeglobinaemia in the Arab peninsula, implying that there has either been gross underreporting of these conditions, or that they are extremely rare entities. Thus in the absence of such data from the areas where Zam Zam is consumed in large quantities, it is difficult to accept the hypothesis that Zam Zam water is poisonous.

Q: A questioner asked (Shaykh Mohammad al Malki) about the merits of Zam Zam water. Is it from the Sunnah or is it a bid’ah to make du’aa before drinking?

A: The Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said that “Zam Zam is for whatever reason you drink it.” Whatever intention you have when you drink it, it will, In Shaa Allaah, happen. I remember (a narration of) Imaam Ibn Hajr (rahimahullaah), when he came to the well of Zam Zam he asked Allaah to give him the kind of memory like the memory of Imaam Adh Dhahabee (rahimahullaah). He was given that kind of memory. As the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “Zam Zam is food if you take it as food and medicine if you take it as medicine.”

We have two incidents, one at the time of the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) and one today. At the time of the Prophet, Aboo Dhaarr al Ghafaari (radhiyallaahu ‘anhu) he recited Quraan in Makkah in front of the Kuffaar and they put him in the well of Zam Zam for 40 days and they chained it down. After 40 days they released him. He became fat. He was asked: “How did you become fat like that? Is there any food?” He said: “No, there’s only Zam Zam.”

As for the story of today, I relate the story of a working woman who had cancer. She went to Germany and the doctors told her that she only had a limited number of days to live she’s dying. She asked for advice from an Islaamic center there and they told her to go to Makkah, make ‘Umrah and drink as much Zam Zam you can, maybe Allaah will cure you.

She came to Makkah during the days of ‘Umrah and drank a lot of Zam Zam and then went back to Jeddah where she was living. She went to see the doctors and they did tests. They asked her: “What kind of medicine did you take? There’s no more Cancer, It’s gone.” So this is the incident that I relate today. It is not necessary (like that) because maybe one of us takes Zam Zam and Allaah does not cure him of the illness. Then he says “O it is not as they say.” No. It is not like that. Maybe Allaah wants to give you a greater reward but you are to take the means, you do the means (to reach a cure). You go to the doctor, you drink Zam Zam, you take honey, Black Seed, these things you know – avoid this and avoid that. These are all a means of purification. Allaahu Aa’lam

Conclusion:

In conclusion, regarding persons whose daily maximum water intake is Zamzam water, the characteristic high mineral content of Zamzam water did not change their mineral and electrolyte levels upon long term consumption in comparison to other groups, also their kidney function tests are within the range of other groups. Additionally, the elevated sodium level found in persons whose daily maximum water intake is mineralized water suggests that this pattern of water drinking is not suitable for hypertensive patients as it may have a share in keeping their blood pressure high. This study also concludes that serum minerals and electrolytes, as well as urea, creatinine and uric acid are within the normal ranges in people using the different types of drinking water available in Makka city. These findings should be confirmed by a study on a larger scale, as the small sample size of our study is a limitation, but we think that the results obtained are reliable.

In short, Zamzam water is a refreshing, sweet, pleasant tasting, easily digestible, boundlessly blessed, virtuous and honorable water. It enjoys such blessings and virtues, which no other water can be compared to.