Just in front of Kaaba, in the Mataf, is a site known as Maqam-e-Ibrahim, which translates as “the place where Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) stood” (the circular area around Kaaba where pilgrims perform Tawaf). The footprints of Prophet Ibrahim are inscribed on a stone that is primarily blackish-red with some white (PBUH). The pilgrims can see the rock because it is enclosed in a glass dome. A golden cage with a lovely pattern carved on it covers the glass dome. The cage features a “Sitara” curtain, which is decorated and stitched. Its dimensions are 8 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 15 inches long.
Let’s see the history of Maqam-e-Ibrahim and the story of its existence.
History of Maqam-e-Ibrahim
Maqam-e-Ibrahim is the stone on which the footprints of the Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) are engraved, and it is located 46 feet away from Kaaba . One of the most widely believed stories about the history of Maqam-e-Ibrahim is that Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) stood on the stone to oversee the construction of the holy Kaaba when it was being constructed. By the grace of Almighty Allah, the stone softened, leaving imprints of the Prophet’s foot on it.
Another widely believed story goes that Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) used to stand on a stone and carry his son Prophet Ismail (PBUH) on his shoulders to place stones in high places while Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) was building the Kaaba. Additionally, it is thought that Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) used to stand atop the rock now known as Maqam-e-Ibrahim to talk about and call people to Islam, the faith of the Almighty Allah.
The Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) allegedly used to stand on Maqam-e-Ibrahim and call people to make the holy journey to Mecca. However, it is regarded as a sign of devotion to Allah.
Importance of Maqam-e-Ibrahim
Almighty Allah emphasizes the vital role of Maqam-e-Ibrahim in the Holy Quran, which reads as follows:
“….Take as your place of worship the place where Ibrahim(PBUH) stood (to pray).”
– Surah Baqarah:125
When all seven rounds of the Kaaba have been completed or when a Tawaf has been completed and two rakats of salah have been offered for the Tawaf, Allah commands the pilgrims to approach Maqam-e-Ibrahim. Although reciting additional surahs is permitted, it is advised to recite Surah Al Kafirun following Surah Al Fatiha in the first Rakat and Surah Ikhlas in the second Rakat. As a result, Maqam-e-Ibrahim is a necessary part of Kaaba history.
The Maqam-e-Ibrahim is a representation of Prophets Ibrahim (PBUH) and Ismail’s (PBUH) devotion to their struggles for Allah (S.a.w). During Umrah and Hajj, all pilgrims pay their respects at this important historical site.
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