Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Saud bin Mishal recently handed over the kiswa of the Holy Kaaba to its deputy senior keeper, Abdul Malik Al-Shaibi, on behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman. The kiswa handover was conducted in preparation for the replacement of the Kaaba’s cover with a new one on the first day of Muharram 1446. The kiswa is made of special natural silk, dyed black, and manufactured by the King Abdulaziz Complex For Holy Kaaba Kiswa in Makkah.
Measuring 14 meters in height, the kiswa consists of four pieces of cloth, with each piece covering one side of the holy Kaaba. In addition, there is a fifth piece, a curtain placed on the door of the Kaaba. The upper third of the kiswa features a belt with Islamic decoration, measuring 95 centimeters wide and 47 meters long. The manufacturing process of the kiswa involves several phases to ensure its quality and authenticity.
The signing of the kiswa handover and receipt minutes was overseen by Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah and Abdul Malik Al-Shaibi, the deputy senior keeper of the Kaaba. This symbolic ceremony signifies the respect and care given to the Holy Kaaba, a sacred site for Muslims around the world. The new kiswa replacement is a tradition that marks the beginning of the Islamic new year and highlights the continuous preservation of the Kaaba’s sanctity.
The King Abdulaziz Complex For Holy Kaaba Kiswa, located in the Umm Al-Jude neighborhood in Makkah, is dedicated to the production of the kiswa. The complex plays a crucial role in ensuring the high quality and authenticity of the kiswa, which is an essential part of the annual rituals and traditions associated with the Holy Kaaba. The intricate design and craftsmanship of the kiswa reflect the deep reverence and devotion of the Muslim community towards the Kaaba.
As a symbol of unity and spirituality, the kiswa holds significant importance for Muslims during Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. It serves as a visual representation of faith and devotion, reminding believers of the sacredness of the Holy Kaaba and the teachings of Islam. The meticulous care and craftsmanship put into the production of the kiswa reflect the reverence and respect that the Muslim community holds for the Kaaba, a cornerstone of the Islamic faith.
In conclusion, the annual replacement of the kiswa of the Holy Kaaba is a sacred tradition that signifies the renewal of faith and commitment to the teachings of Islam. The careful handover of the kiswa, overseen by key officials and authorities, highlights the importance of preserving the sanctity of the Holy Kaaba. As believers around the world prepare to welcome the new Islamic year, the symbolic gesture of replacing the kiswa serves as a reminder of the enduring spiritual legacy of the Kaaba and its significance in the lives of Muslims globally.
