Al Hajr Al Aswad is a black stone currently fragmented into several smaller pieces, that is encased in a silver frame. 

Pilgrims who visit Makkah during Hajj or Umrah, try to tough or kiss it following the tradition of Prophet Mohamed (PBUH).

The stone is about 30 cm (12 inches) in
diameter and is set about 1.5 meters (5 feet) above the ground on the Kaaba's corner.

WHAT dOES AL-HAJAR AL-ASWAD MEAN? 

The name Al-Hajar al-Aswad means:
"The Black Stone." In Arabic
Al-Hajar: Means "the stone."
Al-Aswad: Means "black."
It is called this because of its color, which is now dark due to its historical age and the sins it is said to have absorbed from people.

Origin: The Black Stone is believed to have come from Paradise. Initially white, it turned black due to humanity's sins.
 

Placement by Prophet Ibrahim(A.S):
Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and his son Ismail (A.S) placed it in the Kaaba as a marker for starting Tawaf during
Hajj and Umrah.

Restoration by Prophet Muhammad(pbuh):
When the Kaaba was damaged by a flood, the people argued about who should place the Black Stone back,
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) solved the problem by placing the stone on a cloth and letting everyone lift it
together. Then, he gently placed it in its spot He taught us to be fair and work as a team!

WhY DO MUSLIMS REVERE
THE BLACK STONE?
Following the Prophets: "Muslims honor the traditions of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), Ismail (A.S.)
and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by showing respect to the Black Stone."
Symbolic Act: Touching or kissing the stone is a way of showing devotion, respect, and a connection to the faith. And The sins of the people who are touching it will be wiped away. 

Pilgrimage ritual: During the Hajj
pilgrimage, Muslims perform the ritual of 'Istilam," where they point to the stone kiss it, or touch it with their hands if possible.

The Black Stone's Significance
1. Symbolism: The Hajr Al Aswad is believed to symbolize the heart of the Earth, and its black color represents the absorption of sins.
2. Purification: Muslims believe that
touching or kissing the stone can purify their souls and bring them closer to Allah.
3. Connection to the Prophet: The stone is also significant because it was kissed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during his farewell pilgrimage.

Cultural Significance
1. Unity and equality: The Hajr Al Aswad represents the unity and equality of all Muslims, as pilgrims from diverse backgrounds come together to worship and kiss the stone.
2. Spiritual connection: For many Muslims the Hajr Al Aswad serves as a tangible connection to their faith, the Prophet Muhammad, and the history of Islam.
3. Architectural inspiration: The Kaaba's design, including the Hajr Al Aswad, has inspired architectural styles in mosques and Islamic buildings around the world.

May the Almighty make us all witness His place and forgive our sins. AAMEEN!!