While not a formal requirement, many Muslims attempt to touch and kiss the Kaaba and the Black Stone during Hajj and Umrah.
While the referenced text does not explicitly state that people "lick" the Kaaba, it does mention that many Muslims try to kiss the Kaaba and the Black Stone. It's reasonable to infer that in the process of kissing, some contact with the tongue might occur, but direct licking is not the primary or intended action. The goal is to express devotion and reverence.
Here's a breakdown:
- Kissing is Common: A strong desire exists among pilgrims to kiss or touch the Kaaba and the Black Stone.
- Touching is Common: Many try to touch the Kaaba in general, as an act of devotion.
- Not a Requirement: Touching or kissing the Kaaba is not a mandatory part of Hajj or Umrah.
- Congestion: The area around the Kaaba is often extremely crowded, leading to a combative atmosphere as people try to reach it.
In conclusion, while the intention is to kiss, the possibility of incidental contact resembling licking cannot be ruled out in the crowded conditions, even though direct licking is not the intention.
