Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad): History, Significance & Rituals in Islam
Known to Muslims as the Hajar al-Aswad (الحجر الأسود), the Black Stone is arguably Islam’s most treasured relic set in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, located in the very center of Mecca, the Masjid al-Haram.
It holds great worth in terms of religion, history, and symbolism and is particularly important during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Understanding the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)
Widely accepted by Muslims as the Stone of Heaven, the Hajar al-Aswad (Al-Rukn al-Hajari الركن الحجري)) is a unique piece of rock with a deeply religious significance.
The Black Stone is believed to have been placed on earth by Allah as a point of contact between humans and the Almighty, thus establishing a strong relationship between mankind and divinity.
- Tawaf in Hajj and Umrah: Meaning, Types, Steps, Rules, and Duas
- Safa and Marwa – History, Significance, and Rituals in Hajj and Umrah
- Talbiyah in Hajj and Umrah: Meaning, Recitation, and Spiritual Significance
- What Do We Recite During the 7 Rounds of Tawaf?
Detailed Origin of Hajar al-Aswad
Heavenly Descent and Initial Placement
According to Islamic beliefs, the Black Stone was brought down by the angel Jibreel (Gabriel), who is known to perform several merciful acts. Initially, it was of stunning white color, brighter than even milk, symbolizing purity.
However, the sins of mankind caused its color to change, serving as a reminder of human sinful nature.
Hadith: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stated, “The Black Stone (Al-Rukn al-Aswad (الركن الأسود)) descended from Paradise whiter than milk but became black due to the sins of the children of Adam.” [Tirmidhi]
Connection with Prophet Ibrahim and Ismail (عليهما السلام)
As per historical reports, Black Stone was placed in Kaaba by Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail (Ishmael).
Its placement marked the initiation of the rituals associated with pilgrimage.
Historical Significance and Key Events
Role of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in Placing the Stone
The black Stone had a significant impact during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
He settled a major dispute regarding the placing of the Stone amongst the tribes of Quraysh, and his decision is regarded as a great accord for the tribalism-based society.
Historical Damages and Restoration
In 930 CE, during the time of the Qarmatians, the black Stone suffered its most significant damage. Today, the Stone is shattered into seven pieces that are held together with silver.
Each damage inflicted provides a historical relevance to the Stone. Bordering under centuries of worship and repair, the black Stone has encompassed itself in deep reverence.
Spiritual Significance and Symbolism
A Symbol of Unity and Faith
A Hajar al-Aswad holds great importance to Muslims as a religious icon and a manifestation of their relationship with Allah Akbar.
The act of touching or kissing the Stone during the pilgrimage is a mark of faith and respect for the rites instituted by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Significance on the Day of Judgment
It is said that the Black Stone will assert the claims of those who touched it in sincerity during their lifetime, and this adds value to its testimony and teachings.
Hadith Reference: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Allah will resurrect the Hajar al-Aswad on the Day of Judgment with eyes to see and a tongue to speak, testifying for those who touched it in sincerity.” [Tirmidhi]
Rituals Associated with the Black Stone
Tawaf: Circumambulation Ritual
The foremost ritual associated with the black Stone is Tawaf, which is the ritual of going around the Kaaba seven times. Each round begins and ends by looking at Hajar al-Aswad, which shows intent towards complete spiritual metamorphosis.
Istilam: Proper Way to Kiss or Greet the Black Stone
Touching the Stone (Istilam) is regarded highly in the Sunnah, and it is an act of proper reverence Muslims perform by not touching, kissing or beckoning towards the Stone’s hand without first approaching it.
- Kissing: Areas of pilgrimage try to kiss the Stone while saying the Takbeer.
- Touching: If a kiss is not possible, the pilgrims can touch the Stone and kiss their hand after.
- Gesturing: In less space, it is possible to use one hand to point at the Stone and say Takbeer.
Supplication During Istilam
Pilgrims recite a special du’a attributed to Ali (رضي الله عنه):
“Bismillahi wallahu Akbar. Allahumma imanan bika wa tasdiqan bikitabika, wa wafaan bi’ahdika wattiba’an li sunnati nabiyyika Muhammad (ﷺ).”
Clarifying Common Misconceptions
Misunderstanding Worship vs. Veneration
One of the most commonly misunderstood issues of Muslims is thinking that the Black Stone is an object of worship. Scholars emphasize the fact that it is a matter of reverence and tradition instead, which is blindly overlooked.
Authenticity of Fragment Claims Outside Mecca
These fragments are said to be found in places such as Istanbul, Turkey.
However, there is no debate when it comes to the general Islamic authorities, as they only acknowledge the pieces placed in the Kaaba.
Scientific Perspectives and Debates
Meteoritic or Terrestrial?
From ancient times, the scientific reasoning for the existence of the Black Stone has been a matter of reasoning and debate.
Some of them believe that it could have been a meteorite based on its features, while others believe it might be basalt or volcanic glass. However, its geological origins are still uncertain due to the absence of modern scientific techniques.
Lesser-Known Facts about Hajar al-Aswad
- Physical Dimensions: Currently, it measures roughly 20 cm by 16 cm, encapsulated in a silver protective casing.
- Ottoman Contributions: The Ottoman Empire sustained and periodically refitted the silver frames that sheltered the Stone.
Ethical and Spiritual Lessons from Hajar al-Aswad
Unity and Equality (Social Cohesion)
The episode concerning Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) intercession on behalf of the competing clans has great significance regarding social cohesion, collaboration, and Islam’s egalitarian nature.
Remembrance and Reflection (Mental Focus)
The Stone’s change in color to black from white serves as a sign of an individual’s habitual wrong actions and lack of self-awareness throughout their life.
Humility and Obedience (Submission and Self Control)
The acts done with the Stone underpin the idea of self-control, which in this case is submission to Allah’s commands without actually worshiping or adoring any physical items perceived as idols.
Black Stone in Islamic Literature and Poetry
Throughout Islamic history, the Black Stone has been eloquently described by poets and scholars as divine mercy, sanctity, and terms of forgiveness evoking the heartwarming sentiment of forgiveness.
Cultural Significance Across Muslim World
Different cultures within the Islamic world have their unique approaches to the Black Stone, but all show the same devotion, having faith in a singular purpose.
Planning Your Visit: Tips and Etiquette
- Visit outside of the high rush periods to have a quieter experience with the Black Stone.
- Keep calm and amicable, as it is essential to honor other pilgrims.
- Perform Tawaf with the appropriate supplications provided by prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
FAQs About the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)
Is touching the Black Stone obligatory?
Standing testimony to the fact that Islam is a rational religion, it is not an obligation to touch the Black Stone, but rather highly recommended (Sunnah).
Why do Muslims circle the Kaaba counter-clockwise?
This is an age-old practice and unquestionable tradition done by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) for unison and obedience to Islam.
How many times do pilgrims circle the Kaaba?
They circle the Kaaba seven times during Tawaf.
Can non-Muslims touch the Black Stone?
As non-Muslims are not permitted into the city of Mecca, they are barred from touching the Stone.
What is the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)?
The Black Stone, or Hajar al-Aswad, is an Islamic relic of great importance that is placed on the eastern corner of the Kaaba, located in the region of Mecca.
Where did the Black Stone come from?
It is held that the angel Jibreel brought the Black Stone from Paradise.
Why is the Black Stone black?
Because of the sins of mankind, according to Islamic tradition, the Black Stone turned black.
What is the significance of kissing the Black Stone?
Kissing the Black Stone is a Sunnah practice which, like many others, was practiced by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Has the Black Stone been damaged?
Due to historical incidents, the Black Stone has been damaged and now exists in eight fragments entwined in a silver frame.
Who stole the Black Stone?
In 930 CE, the Qarmatians stole the black Stone, keeping it for 23 years before returning it.
Can women touch the Black Stone?
Women can, just like men can, touch and kiss the Stone during the Tawaf.
What happens if I can’t kiss the Black Stone?
To some, the ritual of pilgrimage is a big dream, but to others, it simply is out of reach, and for these people, the answer is yes. Instead of kissing the Stone, it can be pointed at.
Is the Black Stone mentioned in the Quran?
It does not appear in the Quran, but the relevant importance of it is outlined thoroughly in the Hadith.
Are there fragments of the Black Stone outside Mecca?
There are claims that pieces are located in Turkey, but this remains a topic of controversy.
Conclusion: The Eternal Symbol (A Timeless Representation)
The Black Stone is a significant mark of the oneness of Muslims as it connects their souls as a powerful link to the mercy of the divine and draws a line between the Black Stone and the world.
Its practices, history, and lessons everlastingly dominate the teachings of Islam, with the black Stone reminding one of unity, devotion, following the Sunnah, and the significance of the Black Stone.
Gaining such knowledge increases one’s Islam regardless of whether it is sought during Hajj and Umrah or otherwise.
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