Posted by Embarking on Umrah, pilgrims immerse in profound spiritual rituals, among which the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) stands paramount. Located on the eastern corner of the Kaaba, this relic is believed to have descended from heaven, its whiteness turned black due to humanity’s sins. Pilgrims strive to kiss or touch the stone, emulating the Prophet Muhammad’s tradition. However, given the crowds, a simple gesture or “Istilam” from a distance suffices. Qibla Travels a devoted Umrah Travel Agency often guide pilgrims on its etiquettes, reinforcing its significance in the Umrah journey. Undoubtedly, the Hajar al-Aswad remains an emblem of divine intersection in the world of believers.
The History of Hajar al-Aswad
Hajar al-Aswad, which translates to “the Black Stone,” is a cornerstone of the Kaaba, the most sacred structure in the Islamic world. According to Islamic tradition, the Black Stone was sent down from the heavens and was originally white but turned black over time due to the sins of mankind.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself held this stone in high regard. During the Prophet’s time, when the Kaaba underwent reconstruction, there arose a dispute among the tribes of Mecca over who should have the honor of placing the Black Stone in its rightful position. It was Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who resolved the dispute, placing the stone with his own hands.
Significance in the Umrah Ritual
During Umrah, pilgrims perform the Tawaf, which involves circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. As they make this circuit, pilgrims attempt to touch or kiss the Black Stone, emulating the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) reverence for it. If they cannot reach the stone due to the crowd, it’s customary to gesture towards it on each circuit. This act symbolizes the pilgrim’s intent and heart’s connection to the divine.
The Black Stone serves not as an object of worship but as a symbolic link between Earth and the Divine. It reminds Muslims of the heavenly origin of their faith and the transient nature of life on Earth.
Caring for the Black Stone
Over the centuries, the caretakers of the Kaaba have gone to great lengths to preserve and protect the Black Stone. It is encased in a silver frame, both to hold its fragmented pieces together and to protect it from the natural elements and wear from the touch of millions of pilgrims.
Qibla Travels: Your Trusted Companion on a Spiritual Journey
In the heart of the UK, Qibla Travels stands out as a beacon for those seeking a spiritually enriching journey. Recognized for their dedication to making the pilgrimage of Umrah accessible, they offer the cheapest Umrah packages without compromising on quality or experience. Every pilgrim’s comfort, safety, and spiritual needs are at the forefront of their services. When you choose Qibla Travels, you’re not just selecting a travel agency, but a partner who understands the profound significance of this sacred journey.