Maqam-e-Ibrahim, meaning “the place where Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) stood,” is situated just in front of the Kaaba, within the Mataf, the circular area where pilgrims perform Tawaf. It consists of a blackish-red stone with slight whitish markings, bearing the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH). Encased within a glass dome, the stone is visible to pilgrims, adorned with a golden cage featuring intricate engravings. A decorative curtain, known as “Sitara,” further embellishes the enclosure. The stone itself measures 8 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and 15 inches in length.
Located 46 feet from the Kaaba, Maqam-e-Ibrahim bears the footprints of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH). According to various traditions, when the Kaaba was being constructed, Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) stood on this stone to oversee the process. By the grace of Allah, the stone softened, leaving imprints of the Prophet’s feet engraved upon it.
Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) is also said to have stood on Maqam-e-Ibrahim, summoning people to embark on the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca. Consequently, it remains a revered symbol of devotion to Allah.
The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of Maqam-e-Ibrahim, indicating it as a place of worship through the verse: “Take as your place of worship the place where Ibrahim (PBUH) stood (to pray).” (Surah Baqarah:125)
Allah directs pilgrims to approach Maqam-e-Ibrahim after completing seven rounds around the Kaaba or a Tawaf, and offer two rakats of salah for Tawaf. While reciting Surah Al Kafirun after Surah Al Fatiha in the first rakat and Surah Ikhlas in the second rakat is recommended, other surahs are also permissible. This underscores Maqam-e-Ibrahim’s indispensable role in the history of the Kaaba.
Maqam-e-Ibrahim stands as a symbol of the dedication and hardships endured by Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and Prophet Ismail (PBUH) in their devotion to Allah Almighty. As a prime historical artifact, it is visited by all pilgrims during Umrah and Hajj to honor their legacy.
Sa’eed bin Jubair narrated that the Prophet said: “The stone is the station of Ebrahim. Allah made it soft and made it a mercy. Ebrahim would stand on it and Ismail would hand the stones up to him.” [Muthir Al-Gharam]
Ibn Kathir narrated, “Proclaim (O Ebrahim) the Hajj to the people, calling them to come on pilgrimage to this House which We have commanded you to build.”
