Names of the Kaaba in the Quran
The Kaaba holds a highly esteemed position in the hearts of Muslims, being declared sacred by Allah. It is among the most revered houses of worship in God’s eyes and serves as the qibla—the direction towards which millions of Muslims pray. The Kaaba also symbolizes the starting point of the guidance of the greatest messengers, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The significance of the Kaaba is highlighted in the Quran through its various names.
Allah has referred to the Kaaba in His holy book in several noteworthy ways, including:
- The House
This term is the most frequently used description by Allah for the Kaaba, appearing fifteen times in the Quran. Allah states: (And when We made the House a place of return for the people and a sanctuary).
- The Sacred House
This title indicates that the Kaaba has specific rulings that distinguish it from other places, as it is forbidden to violate sanctities within its confines. This term appears in two instances in the Quran: (And [for] those who are with the Sacred House) and (Allah made the Kaaba, the Sacred House).
- The Forbidden House
This phrase is cited by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), who mentioned: (Our Lord, indeed I have settled some of my descendants in a valley without agriculture near Your Forbidden House).
- The Ancient House
The Kaaba is referred to as the Ancient House due to its long-standing existence. Some scholars suggest it was named so because it was never owned by anyone prior, and it has been freed from the tyranny of oppressors.
- The Qibla
Allah refers to the Sacred House as the Qibla, stating: (And We did not make the Qibla that you were on).
- The Well-Frequented House
This term signifies that the Kaaba is always frequented by visitors, filled with people throughout the year, regardless of circumstances.
Additional Names of the Kaaba
Scholarly texts have highlighted further names attributed to the revered Kaaba, including:
- Qadis
Dervied from the term for holiness, Qadis implies purification, aligning with the name Al-Quddus, meaning “the Most Pure.” This reflects the notion that the Kaaba serves as a means of purging sins and transgressions.
- Nazer
This name refers to the practice of offering sacrificial animals in dedication at the Kaaba.
- The Round House
This name emphasizes the act of circling around the Kaaba during the pilgrimage.
- The Building
As narrated by Ibn Atheer (may Allah have mercy on him), the Kaaba was referred to as the Building of Ibrahim (peace be upon him) because he was its builder, and it is often invoked with oaths made in the name of the Lord of this Building.
Names of Parts of the Kaaba
The Kaaba, honored by Allah, encompasses several interrelated components, forming a complete and significant entity with revered status in the hearts of Muslims. Some notable parts of the Kaaba include:
- The Black Stone
The Black Stone is described by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) as a stone from Paradise, stating, “There is no stone on earth from Paradise besides it. Had it not been touched by the impurities of ignorance, no afflicted person would have touched it without being cured.”
- The Door
The structure of the Kaaba has been renovated after being damaged by floods, resulting in two doors being consolidated into one during the Quraysh era.
- The Water Spout
Known as the “mizrab,” this is designed to drain rainwater from the surface of the Kaaba.
- The Place of Attachment
This name is derived from the recommended practice of leaning one’s forehead upon it after completing the tawaf (circumambulation). It is located between the corner and the door of the Kaaba.
- The Yemeni Corner
Situated on the right side, it derives its name from its location. It is customary to touch this corner during the tawaf without kissing it.
- The Syrian and Iraqi Corners
These corners are named based on their orientation towards Syria and Iraq, respectively.
- The Silk Cover
This refers to the covering of the Kaaba, which was first adorned by Prophet Isma’il (peace be upon him).