What is the Ka’aba?

The Ka’aba (“cube”) is Islam’s holiest site, known as Bayt Allah (House of God), and is situated at the center of Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Who built the Ka’aba?

The Ka’aba was built by Prophet Ibrahim(as) and his son Ismail.

“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

 

Why is the Ka’bah important?

The Ka’bah is important in Islam because it is the main place of worship dedicated to Allah (swt), uniting Muslims worldwide, regardless of their class, colour or creed.

The Ka’bah is in Mecca and serves as the direction (Qiblah) that Muslims face during their daily prayers.

It is also the focal point of the pilgrimage of Hajj, where millions gather every year.

The History of Ka’bah

The Ka’aba holds a central place in Islamic belief and history. Muslims believe it has been rebuilt several times, most notably by Prophet Ibrahim (as) and his son

Ismail (as) when Prophet Ibrahim returned to Makkah after leaving his wife Hajar and their Ismail son there.

In the early period of Islam, Muslims initially prayed facing Jerusalem. Later, following a revelation in the Qur’an, the direction of prayer (qibla) was changed to Makkah, and Muslims have faced the Ka’aba ever since.

“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

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