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| Hajar Aswad |
The Black Stone or Hajar Aswad is a revered Islamic relic that has been a part of the Kaaba in Mecca since pre-Islamic times.
It is believed to be a meteorite that was sent down by Allah (SWT) as a sign of His presence on earth. Millions of Muslims from all over the world gather in Mecca every year to perform Hajj and Umrah, and one of the most important rituals of these pilgrimages is to kiss or touch the Black Stone. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of Hajar Aswad.
The Significance of Hajar Aswad
Hajar Aswad holds a special place in Islamic tradition as it is believed to be the only surviving stone from the original structure of the Kaaba built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son, Ismail (AS). According to Islamic tradition, the Black Stone was sent down from heaven to be placed in the Kaaba by the angel Jibril (AS). Muslims believe that touching or kissing the Black Stone during the Hajj pilgrimage removes sins and brings blessings.
The History of Hajar Aswad
The history of Hajar Aswad dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who built the Kaaba as a house of worship for Allah (SWT). The Kaaba has been rebuilt several times over the centuries due to natural disasters, wars, and political unrest, but the Black Stone has remained a part of the structure. In 930 AD, during the Abbasid caliphate, the Black Stone was stolen by a group of Qarmatians and taken to Bahrain. It was returned to Mecca 23 years later after a peace agreement was reached with the Abbasids.
The Physical Characteristics of Hajar Aswad
The Black Stone is a small, oval-shaped stone that measures about 30 cm in diameter. It is set in a silver frame that is embedded in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, about 1.5 meters above the ground. The surface of the stone is black and smooth, and it is made up of several small fragments that are held together by a silver band.
The Ritual of Touching or Kissing Hajar Aswad
During the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, Muslims perform the Tawaf, which is the act of circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. As they pass by the Black Stone, they may touch it with their right hand, or if possible, kiss it. If they are unable to touch or kiss the Black Stone, they may simply point to it as they pass by.
Controversies Surrounding Hajar Aswad
There have been several controversies surrounding the Black Stone over the years. Some have claimed that the stone is a pre-Islamic pagan relic, while others have suggested that it was actually a part of a meteorite that fell to earth. Despite these controversies, Hajar Aswad remains an important symbol of faith and devotion for Muslims all over the world.
Conclusion
The Black Stone or Hajar Aswad is an integral part of the Islamic faith and is an important symbol of the connection between Allah (SWT) and His followers. It has survived countless natural disasters, wars, and political unrest over the centuries, and its significance remains as strong as ever. Muslims from all over the world come to Mecca every year to perform the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages and to touch or kiss the Black Stone as a symbol of their devotion and faith.
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