2. Historical Background :
Connection to Prophet Ibrahim :
According to Islamic tradition, Maqam Ibrahim is the stone that Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him)
stood upon while constructing the upper walls of the Kaaba with his son Ismail (Ishmael).
As they built the Kaaba, Prophet Ibrahim stood on this stone, and it miraculously raised or lowered
itself to aid him in reaching the higher parts of the structure.
The footprints were left as a mark of this effort and have been preserved through generations.
Role in Islamic History :
Maqam Ibrahim has been honored since the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be
upon him) and was a place of prayer during his time. The Quraysh tribe of Mecca and later the early
Muslims preserved the location and the stone as a symbol of their heritage and faith.
3. Physical Description :
The Stone :
Maqam Ibrahim contains a small rock with a visible indentation that resembles footprints. The
stone is about the size of a small flat rock.
Enclosure :
Today, the stone is encased in a glass and brass structure for protection. This enclosure is
located a few meters away from the Kaaba, specifically near the eastern side, allowing pilgrims to
easily view it while performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba.
Design of the Enclosure :
The current enclosure is designed with transparent glass so that visitors can
see the footprints inside while still being protected from the elements. The enclosure also ensures that
the stone is not damaged due to the large number of pilgrims who visit throughout the year.
4. Religious Significance :
Symbol of Obedience and Faith:
Maqam Ibrahim represents the devotion, sacrifice, and unwavering
obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail in fulfilling Allah’s command to build the Kaaba. It
stands as a reminder of their faith and the establishment of monotheism in Mecca.
Mention in the Quran :
The Quran specifically mentions Maqam Ibrahim in Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2,
Verse 125):
"And [mention] when We made the House a place of return for the people and [a place of] security. And
take, [O believers], from the standing place of Ibrahim a place of prayer." (Quran, 2:125)
This verse directs Muslims to honor Maqam Ibrahim as a sacred place and to offer prayers near it after
completing the Tawaf around the Kaaba.
Pilgrimage Rituals :
During Hajj and Umrah, after completing the Tawaf, it is Sunnah (the practice of Prophet Muhammad) to
pray two units of prayer (Rakats) behind Maqam Ibrahim, facing the Kaaba. This prayer is known as Tawaf
prayer.
It is recommended for Muslims to recite Surah Al-Kafirun (Chapter 109) in the first Rakat and Surah
Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112) in the second Rakat during this prayer.
5. Maqam Ibrahim During Hajj and Umrah :
During Tawaf :
While performing Tawaf, pilgrims can see the Maqam Ibrahim and reflect upon the efforts
and faith of Prophet Ibrahim. Although touching or getting close to the Maqam is not part of the
pilgrimage rituals, it is a significant site to visit and reflect upon.
Praying Near Maqam Ibrahim :
After completing the seven circuits of Tawaf, pilgrims move behind Maqam
Ibrahim, facing the Kaaba, to perform the two-unit prayer. Due to the high number of pilgrims, this
prayer can be performed further back or in any area behind Maqam Ibrahim as long as it is aligned with
it and the Kaaba.
6. Spiritual Symbolism :
A Link to the Prophets :
Maqam Ibrahim serves as a tangible connection to the Prophets Ibrahim and
Ismail, reminding Muslims of their dedication to Allah’s commands and their pivotal role in the
establishment of the Kaaba as a house of monotheistic worship.
A Reminder of Effort in Worship :
The footprint represents not just a physical mark but symbolizes the
effort, patience, and striving needed in acts of worship. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to put
forth their best effort in serving Allah.
7. Visiting Maqam Ibrahim :
Accessibility:
Due to the large number of pilgrims, the area around Maqam Ibrahim can be crowded,
especially during Hajj and Ramadan. Authorities have placed the enclosure in a way that allows
visibility while maintaining the flow of pilgrims performing Tawaf.
Etiquette :
Visitors should approach Maqam Ibrahim with respect and reverence, being mindful of the
surrounding worshippers. Touching or attempting to kiss the glass enclosure is discouraged to avoid
congestion.
8. Preservation and Care :
Protection of the Stone :
Over centuries, various measures have been taken to protect the stone from
damage and wear. Initially, it was only covered by a simple canopy, but as the number of pilgrims grew,
it was enclosed in glass and metal for better protection.
Maintenance :
The Saudi authorities ensure that the enclosure is well-maintained, allowing pilgrims to
continue seeing the footprints while keeping the stone safe from wear due to environmental exposure or
handling.
Maqam Ibrahim stands as a symbol of the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim's devotion, and it continues to hold
an important place in the hearts of Muslims as they visit the Kaaba for pilgrimage. It is a site that
reminds Muslims of their spiritual heritage and encourages them to strive in the path of faith and
submission to Allah.
