Everything in this world has a center and the Kaaba is the holy center for Muslims. Its importance for Muslims cannot be explained in words. Muslims from all over the world offer their daily prayers while facing it. It is also the center of focus during Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. Let it be the fragrance applied to it, a piece of its cloth, or simply a chance to touch it; every single thing about it is highly valuable for them.
One such thing is the Kaaba washing ceremony. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about this sacred tradition.
When was the Kaaba Washed for the First Time?
The Kaaba was initially built by Prophet Abraham and his son Ishmael long before the arrival of Muhammad. The current structure you see was renovated by the people of Makkah around 608 CE.
As far as the washing is concerned, the Quraish used to wash the Kaaba randomly but in the Islamic context, the first proper washing ceremony was held in 630 CE after the conquest of Makkah. It was the time when all the symbols of paganism such as idols were also removed. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) washed the Kaaba himself.
This established the tradition of washing the Kaaba. If you want to explore more about the washing ceremony during your Umrah in November or any other month, head over to the library in Masjid al Haram near gate number 79.
When is the Kaaba Washed Now?
The Kaaba is washed twice every year. You can witness the ceremony if you are in the mosque. However, pilgrims cannot take part in it as it is done only by selected people.
- The ceremony is usually held before the start of Ramadan. This month is quite crowded and many pilgrims come for Umrah during it.
- The Kaaba is washed for the second time in Dhull Hijjah, a few days before the start of Hajj rituals.
The final date of the washing is decided by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. The date may vary each year as per the lunar calendar.
Step-by-Step Process for Washing the Kaaba
The Kaaba washing ceremony is done side-by-side with people praying or doing tawaf. The area is cordoned off with the help of railings and guards. Some people are given invitations to attend the washing ceremony. If you are lucky, you might be called by guards or authorities to take part in the ceremony for a couple of minutes. Let’s explore the washing ceremony in detail.
Opening the Kaaba
The process starts early in the morning. The Kaaba keys are given to the head caretaker of the structure to keep them safely. The gates cannot be opened without him being present. He opens the gate of Kaaba with his own hands while reciting prayers. Very few people such as religious leaders, heads of Islamic states and some VIP guests are allowed inside the Kaaba.
Cleaning from Inside
Once the gate of the Kaaba is opened, the people there start the cleaning from inside. The inside the Kaaba is very simple and there are only a few things. The floor is made from marble and there is a cabinet on one side that is used to keep scented oils for anointing the Kaaba. There is a staircase as well that leads to the roof.
There is nothing better than ZamZam water in the world and this is why Kaaba is cleaned with it. Rosewater and oud is also added to the water. The water is spread on the floor and then it is mopped with a clean cloth of white color. The participants are allowed to clean the floor of the Kaaba.
Cleaning the Exterior
The outside of the Kaaba is cleaned more often than twice a year. If there is a dust storm or when it rains, there is a need to clean the Kaaba from outside. The external parts of the Kaaba are cleaned using soft cloths. Cleaners use stairs to access high areas. The stone parts on the external side are washed with the same water used for the interior cleaning. The process is completed by applying scented oils to the walls.
Closing the Gate
Once both the external and interior parts of the Kaaba are cleaned, the people who took part in cleaning offer a prayer inside the mosque. This is one of the greatest blessings of Allah and is only bestowed on a very few people in the world. After the prayers, some photographs are taken as a memory and the gates of Kaaba are then closed.
Some Facts About Kaaba and the Washing Ceremony
You might think that the Kaaba, being the center of attraction for 1.9 billion Muslims, must be something highly decorated. However, this is not the case. The Kaaba’s beauty lies in its simplicity. Here are some of the facts about the Kaaba and the washing ceremony that you must know.
- The inside of the Kaaba is quite simple with walls and a floor made from marble. The walls are inscribed with Quranic verses.
- The exterior cloth of the Kaaba (kiswah) is not changed during the washing ceremony. It is replaced separately on the 9th of Dhull Hijjah.
- The clothes used for cleaning are preserved and often gifted to important personalities in the Islamic world. Some are even stored at museums.
- The exterior cloth of the Kaaba is only made at a dedicated factory located inside Makkah. You can visit this factor by making a prior appointment.
Final Words
The Kaaba is the most majestic and grand structure in the world for Muslims. One look at it is enough for Muslims to melt emotionally and accept Allah’s greatness. If you are looking to go on a pilgrimage anytime soon, contact Muslims Holy Travel. They are one of the best Umrah tour planners and offer the most economical Umrah packages from the UK.
