History of the Kaaba
The Kaaba, also known as Baytullah (House of Allah), is the most sacred structure in Islam. Located at the center of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, it is considered the first house of worship built for humanity according to the Quran.
Construction by Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
According to Islamic tradition, the Kaaba was built by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael) upon the command of Allah. The Quran describes Ibrahim raising the foundations of the Kaaba and praying for it to be a place of security and worship.
"And [mention] when Ibrahim was raising the foundations of the House and [with him] Ismail, [saying], 'Our Lord, accept [this] from us. Indeed, You are the Hearing, the Knowing.'" β Quran 2:127
The Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)
The Black Stone, set in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, is believed to have been sent from Heaven. Pilgrims performing Tawaf kiss or salute the stone as part of their ritual.
The Kiswah β Covering of the Kaaba
Each year, the Kaaba is draped in a new black silk cloth embroidered with gold-thread Quranic verses, known as the Kiswah. This tradition dates back centuries.