Hajar al-Aswad

The Role of Hajar al-Aswad in Rituals

During the Hajj pilgrimage, pilgrims from around the globe converge on Mecca with the aims of fulfilling their religious obligations. Central to this experience is the act of circumambulating the Kaaba, which includes the veneration of the Hajar al-Aswad. It serves as a focal point in the Tawaf, the act of walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. Pilgrims often attempt to kiss or touch the stone, emulating the actions of the Prophet Muhammad, who is said to have revered it deeply. This act of devotion underscores a profound connection to the divine, reinforcing the pilgrim’s faith and unity within the global Muslim community.

From a Shia perspective, the veneration of Hajar al-Aswad is imbued with additional layers of meaning. It is viewed as a manifestation of the Prophetic legacy, linking believers to the lineage of the Ahlulbayt, the family of the Prophet Muhammad. The stone embodies not only a connection to Allah but also a connection to the teachings and sacrifices of the Imams, particularly Imam Ali and Fatimah, who are central figures within Shia theology.