The Ka’aba

What is the Ka’aba?

The Ka’aba (“cube”) is the most sacred site in Islam, known as the sacred bayt Allah (House of God). It is located at the heart of the sacred mosque Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Who built the Ka’aba?

Commanded by Allah (SWT), Prophet Ibrahim (AS) first built the Ka’aba:

“And remember Ibrahim and Ismail raised the foundations of the House (With this prayer): "Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For Thou art the All-Hearing, the All-knowing."

Quran, 2:127

History of the Ka’aba

As Muslims, we believe that the Ka’aba has been rebuilt many times, starting with Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) when he returned to Makkah after leaving his wife Hajar and Ismail there.

Of course, it’s the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hajar that we replicate during Hajj.

In the early days of Islam, Muslims would pray facing Jerusalem. Now, we pray facing Makkah following the Qur’anic revelation to change direction.

Now, turn your face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque (Al-Masjid-ul-Harām), and (O Muslims), wherever you are, turn your faces in its direction."

Quran, 2:144

In 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) led his first and final Hajj here when he led a group of worshippers.

Why is the Ka’aba important?

As the first House of Worship, it is fundamental to Hajj and to our history as Muslims. It’s also the qibla (direction) towards which we turn towards in prayer five times a day.

Hajj

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