Names of the Kaaba in the Quran
Numerous names of the Kaaba are mentioned in the Holy Quran, which will be outlined as follows:
- The Kaaba
Allah -the Most Exalted- states: (Let two just men from among you judge in accordance with it, as a guide reaching the Kaaba).
- Bakkah
As mentioned in the Quran: (Indeed, the first house established for mankind was that at Bakkah, blessed and a guidance for the worlds). It is referred to as Bakkah because people, both men and women, gather there in great numbers.
- The House
Allah -the Most Exalted- states: (And [mention] when We made the House a place of return for the people and [a place of] security). It is called “The House” as it has a roof and walls, which is characteristic of all houses.
- The Sacred House
Allah -the Most Exalted- mentions: (Indeed, Allah has made the Kaaba, the Sacred House).
- The Prohibited House
In the Quran, it is stated: (Our Lord, indeed I have settled some of my descendants in a valley without agriculture near Your Prohibited House).
- The Sacred Mosque
Allah -the Most Exalted- says: (And from wherever you come, turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque). It is named so because Allah has declared it sacred, prohibiting hunting and fighting within its vicinity, as well as forbidding the cutting down of trees in the area.
- The Ancient House
As stated in the Quran: (Then let them complete their rites and fulfill their vows and let them perform Tawaf around the Ancient House). It is called “The Ancient House” because Allah has preserved it from tyrants, ensuring that no one can claim it as their own. The protection of this house is guaranteed; for instance, when Abraha attempted to demolish the Kaaba, Allah sent upon him flocks of birds. It is also known as “The Ancient House” as it is the first of all houses.
- The Ever-Populated House
As mentioned by Allah -the Most Exalted-: (By the Mount, and by a Book inscribed, in parchment spread open, and by the Ever-Populated House).
Reasons for Naming the Kaaba
The Kaaba received its name for two primary reasons:
- First: Its cubic geometric shape, which distinguished it from other predominantly circular buildings of the time.
- Second: Its elevation above the ground, as it was the tallest structure, and no one was allowed to build a structure taller than the Kaaba out of respect for it.
Story of the Construction of the Kaaba
The honored Kaaba is regarded as the first house built on earth. It was constructed by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) -peace be upon him- along with his son Ismail (Ishmael) under Allah’s command. While they built it, they continually prayed for Allah to accept their work and make them and their descendants among the Muslims. They also prayed for Allah to send a Messenger to guide the people in worshiping Him.
Allah responded to their prayers by sending Muhammad (peace be upon him), who received the Quran and called people towards guidance. Allah confirmed that Ibrahim was the builder of the Kaaba, promoting their attachment to Islam and bringing them closer to Him.
Significance of the Honored Kaaba and Its Virtues
The honorable Kaaba holds immense significance in Islam as it is the house of Allah. People pilgrimage and perform Umrah there. The importance and virtues of the Kaaba can be summarized as follows:
- It is the first house established for the worship of Allah.
- It is the qibla (direction) for Muslims.
- This house serves as a guidance for people, drawing them towards worship and prayers for guidance.
- All who enter it find peace and security.
- It is a place where divine mercy descends.
- It is a pure and fragrant location.
- From the Kaaba, light radiates.
- The prayer performed there is equal to that of one hundred thousand prayers elsewhere.
- The land containing the Sacred Mosque will remain untouched by the Antichrist.