Exposition of the Ḥadīth Regarding the Black Stone

This narration is recorded in the Musnad of Imām Aḥmad and other authentic collections. It is attributed to the second Caliph, ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb (ra), who uttered these words while performing the ṭawāf (circumambulation) around the Kaʿbah.

Theological Context and Meaning

ʿUmar's statement demonstrates the profound understanding of the Ṣaḥābah regarding Islamic monotheism. He clarifies that the Black Stone (al-Ḥajar al-Aswad) possesses no inherent sanctity or power, but rather its veneration is solely because the Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) kissed it and established it as a rite of Ḥajj and ʿUmrah.

This exemplifies the principle of tawqīfiyyah in acts of worship - that ibādah must be based on divine revelation, not human reasoning or innovation. The Stone is a symbol through which Allāh has ordained an act of worship, not an object of worship itself.

Legal Ruling and Practice

Kissing the Black Stone is a sunnah muʾakkadah (emphasized tradition) during ṭawāf. Scholars agree that it is not obligatory but highly recommended, following the example of the Prophet (ﷺ). If one cannot reach it due to crowds, gesturing toward it with the hand and saying "Allāhu Akbar" suffices.

The wisdom behind this ritual includes: commemorating the covenant Allāh took from the children of Adam, following the practice of all prophets since Ibrāhīm (as), and demonstrating unity and submission to Allāh's commands regardless of human comprehension of their wisdom.

Spiritual Significance

ʿUmar's words teach us the proper relationship with physical symbols in Islam. They are means to remember Allāh and follow the Prophet's example, not objects of veneration in themselves. This protects against shirk while allowing for the emotional connection that aids devotion.

The ḥadīth beautifully illustrates the balance between following the Sunnah with love and precision while maintaining pure tawḥīd in belief and action - a lesson of eternal relevance for the Muslim ummah.