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Monday, December 22, 2025

The Valley of Tuwa


The Tuwa Valley (or Wadi Tuwa) is a significant sacred location in Abrahamic traditions, most famously where Allah spoke to the Prophet Moses (Musa), commissioning his prophethood, located near Mount Sinai in the Sinai Peninsula
It's known as "the Holy Valley" where Moses was commanded to remove his sandals in reverence. In Islamic tradition, the valley also holds importance for Prophet Muhammad, who stayed there and prayed before entering Makkah, with a well (Bir Tuwa) marking the spot.  

Significance in Religious Texts

  • Quranic References
    Mentioned in Surah Taha (20:12) and Surah An-Nazi'at (79:16) as the "sacred valley Tuwa" where Allah called Musa and commanded him to take off his shoes. 
  • Musa (Moses)
    The place where Musa received his divine mission, symbolizing a sanctified space for direct divine communication. 
  • Muhammad (PBUH)
    Prophet Muhammad stayed in the valley, prayed, and used the well before conquering Makkah, making it a blessed site in Islamic history. 
  • Location & Geography
  • Sinai Peninsula
    Generally located in the Sinai Peninsula, near Mount Sinai, often linked with Egypt.
  • Makkah Connection
    Another part of the valley is associated with Makkah, called Jarwal, where the historic Bir Tuwa (Well of Tuwa) is located on the outskirts of the Grand Mosque. 
  • Etymology & Meaning
  • Egyptian Roots
    The word "Tuwa" (Twa) is believed to have Egyptian origins, possibly related to "dua" (worship/supplication), fitting its sacred nature as a place of prayer and divine encounter. 
  • "Doubly Blessed"
    Some interpretations suggest "Tuwa" means "doubly sanctified" or "folded holiness," referring to its elevated sacred status.