How important is the Kabah in Islam?
The Kaaba holds immense importance in Islam as the spiritual centre for Muslims worldwide. Located in the Grand Mosque of Mecca, it is the direction (qibla) towards which Muslims pray, symbolising unity and submission to Allah SWT. The Kaaba is deeply revered not as an object of worship, but as a sacred point ordained by Allah, embodying the unity of the Muslim community (ummah) and serving as a focal point for Islamic rituals.
5 Reasons why the Kaaba is Important in Islam:
- Center of Worship: Muslims around the world face the Kaaba in Mecca for their daily prayers, fostering unity.
- Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimage: The Kaaba is central to the Hajj and Umrah, where Muslims perform the Tawaf (circumambulation) around it.
- Historical Significance: The Kaaba was built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS).
- Symbol of Unity: Facing the Kaaba for prayer symbolises the unity of Muslims, connecting them spiritually.
- Focus of Supplication: The Kaaba inspires devotion and acts as a focal point for Muslims to seek Allah’s blessings and forgiveness.
6 Facts about the Holy Kaaba
1. The Kabah is 5000 Years Old
SubhanAllah, the Kabah is more than 5000 years old! While the current structure we see today has been restored multiple times, the foundation of the Kabah was originally laid by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) over five millennia ago. The original shape and size of the Kabah have evolved over time, but its sacred status remains unchanged.
2. There Are Actually Two Kabahs
Did you know that there are two Kabahs? The one we see and circumambulate in Makkah is well-known, but the second Kabah, known as ‘Bait Al Mamoor,’ is located directly above it in the seven heavens. It is narrated that 70,000 angels pray there daily, and they never return once they have completed their prayers. Masha’Allah, the scale and glory of Allah’s creation is truly beyond our comprehension.
3. The Kabah Had Two Doors
Yes, at one point in history, the Kabah had two doors! One was used for entering, and the other for exiting. This design was implemented by Abdullah bin Zubair (RA) during a reconstruction in 64 Hijri. Unfortunately, one of the doors was later sealed by Hajjaj bin Yousuf in 75 Hijri, leaving only the door we see today. Alhamdulillah, even with one door, the Kabah continues to serve its purpose as a beacon of faith.
4. The Kabah Was Once D-Shaped
Most people imagine the Kabah in its iconic cubical shape, but it wasn’t always like that! The original foundations laid by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) were actually D-shaped. The cubical form we are familiar with was the result of a reconstruction by the Quraysh, who could not afford to rebuild the entire structure, hence the shape change. Allahu Akbar, the Kabah’s legacy spans time and shape, yet its sacred essence remains constant.
5. The Black Stone is Broken
The Black Stone, or Hajar al-Aswad, is situated on the eastern corner of the Kabah. It holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims, many of whom aspire to touch or kiss it during Tawaf. However, what many don’t realise is that the stone is actually broken into pieces. The damage occurred during the Qarmatian siege of Makkah, and the fragments were secured together in a silver casing by the Abbasid caliph. Alhamdulillah, despite its condition, the Black Stone continues to symbolise unity and devotion.
6. The Kabah Was Not Always Black
It’s hard to imagine the Kabah covered in anything but its iconic black Kiswah, but it hasn’t always been that way! Before the Abbasid Caliphate, the Kabah was covered in various colours, including green, red, and white. The Abbasids, who favoured black for their household, started the tradition of draping the Kabah in black, and it has continued ever since. SubhanAllah, the Kabah’s outer appearance has changed, but its sanctity remains everlasting.
Each of these facts reminds us of the incredible history, significance, and sacredness of the Kabah. As Muslims, we are honoured to turn towards this holy structure in prayer, and may Allah (SWT) continue to guide and bless us through it.
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