11 Facts About Hajr-e-Aswad (The Black Stone) You May Not Know

Hajr-e-Aswad, famously known as the Black Stone, holds a unique and sacred place in the hearts of Muslims around the world. Situated in the eastern corner of the Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah, it is not just a symbolic stone but a blessed relic that connects believers to centuries of history, Prophetic traditions, and spiritual significance. Every year, millions of Muslims long to touch or kiss it during Tawaf, as it is considered a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

While many know it as a revered stone of Paradise, there are several fascinating and lesser-known facts about Hajr-e-Aswad that deepen our appreciation of its status and meaning. Below, we uncover 11 unknown facts about this extraordinary stone that continues to inspire awe and reverence in the hearts of the faithful.

11 Facts about Hajr-e-Aswad Every Muslim Should Know

1. Origin from Paradise

Hajr-e-Aswad is not an earthly stone; it was sent down from Jannah (Paradise). According to hadith, it was originally whiter than milk, but the sins of mankind turned it black over time. This fact highlights its heavenly origin and the deep spiritual symbolism it carries for Muslims.

2. Placed by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and Ismail (A.S.)

When Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and his son Ismail (A.S.) raised the foundations of the Kaaba, Allah commanded them to place this blessed stone in its corner. This makes Hajr-e-Aswad a witness to the legacy of Tawheed and the obedience of two great Prophets.

3. Broken into Pieces but Still Preserved

Throughout history, Hajr-e-Aswad has faced several incidents, including attacks and damage. Today, it exists as several smaller fragments held together by a silver frame. Despite these trials, it remains preserved by Allah’s will, continuing to hold immense respect among Muslims.

4. It Will Testify on the Day of Judgement

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that Hajr-e-Aswad will be given eyes and a tongue on the Day of Judgement to testify in favor of those who touched or kissed it with sincerity. This fact reflects its spiritual role beyond this world, as a witness for believers.

5. Not Worshipped but Honored

Muslims do not worship the Black Stone. Instead, it is kissed or touched as an act of love and respect, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (R.A.) himself clarified this by saying, “I know you are only a stone and cannot harm or benefit me, but I kiss you because the Prophet ﷺ did so.”

6. It Was Once Stolen

In 930 CE, the Qarmatians, a rebellious group, attacked Makkah and took Hajr-e-Aswad to Bahrain. It remained missing for about 22 years before being returned to its place in the Kaaba. This event marks one of the most painful chapters in the stone’s history.

7. Surrounded by a Silver Frame

The silver frame that surrounds the Black Stone was first added during the time of Abdullah bin Zubair (R.A.) and has been repaired several times throughout history. Today, the silver casing not only protects the stone but also adds to its unique appearance.

8. Sunnah of Kissing or Touching

Kissing or touching Hajr-e-Aswad is a Sunnah that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed. However, due to the large crowds, many Muslims cannot reach it. In such cases, one may simply point towards it during Tawaf, and this is also considered a Sunnah act.

9. Bright Light in its Early Days

When Hajr-e-Aswad was first revealed, it shone so brightly that it illuminated the entire area. According to narrations, if Allah had not dimmed its light, its brightness would have lit up everything between the East and West.

10. Symbol of Unity

During the reconstruction of the Kaaba before Prophethood, a dispute broke out among the tribes of Quraysh about who should place Hajr-e-Aswad in its position. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ resolved the conflict wisely by placing the stone in a cloth and allowing all tribal leaders to lift it together, symbolizing unity and justice.

11. A Source of Blessings

Touching or kissing Hajr-e-Aswad is believed to erase sins, as mentioned in hadith. This is one of the reasons why millions of Muslims strive to reach it during Hajj and Umrah, despite the difficulty caused by huge crowds.

Also Read: 17 Eye-Opening Scientific Miracles in the Quran Backed by Modern Science.

The Importance of Dhikr and How to Incorporate It in a Busy Life.

Conclusion

Hajr-e-Aswad is not just a sacred stone but a symbol of deep spiritual connection between mankind and Allah. From its heavenly origin to its future testimony on the Day of Judgment, it continues to inspire awe and reverence among Muslims. For those blessed to visit the Kaaba, touching or even pointing towards it is a moment of spiritual renewal and love for the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet ﷺ.

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