The gold thing next to the Kaaba is the structure covering the Station of Ibrahim (Maqam Ibrahim).
Next to the revered Kaaba in Mecca stands a significant structure known as the Station of Ibrahim, or Maqam Ibrahim. This structure is often described as a glass case with a golden dome.
Significance of the Station of Ibrahim
The Maqam Ibrahim is highly significant in Islam. It houses the stone upon which Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) is believed to have stood while he was building the upper parts of the Kaaba. As the walls rose, the stone miraculously elevated him so he could continue his work.
Key points about the Station of Ibrahim:
- Historic Stone: It contains the actual stone used by Prophet Ibrahim during the construction of the Kaaba.
- Origin: According to the reference, this stone, much like the Black Stone (Al-Hajar al-Aswad), is considered to be from Paradise.
- Location: It is situated a few meters east of the Kaaba.
The Associated Prayer Ritual
Pilgrims performing the Hajj or Umrah are encouraged to pray two units of prayer (Rak'ahs) after completing the Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba).
Here's how the ritual is performed:
- After completing the seven rounds of Tawaf.
- Move towards the Station of Ibrahim.
- Pray two units of prayer, ideally keeping the Station of Ibrahim between oneself and the Kaaba.
- While it's recommended to pray immediately behind the Maqam, due to crowds, pilgrims often pray elsewhere in the Masjid al-Haram facing the Kaaba, fulfilling the spirit of the command.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Structure | Glass case with a golden dome |
| Contains | Stone used by Prophet Ibrahim during Kaaba construction |
| Origin | Believed to be from Paradise |
| Ritual | Location for recommended two units of prayer after Tawaf |
This golden structure and the stone it protects represent a tangible link to the history of the Kaaba and the Prophets Ibrahim and Muhammad (peace be upon them).
