Makkah, Nov 9: Dozens of ambassadors of Muslim countries and prominent Muslim scholars across the word took part in the ceremonial washing of the Kaaba on Saturday.
Two scholars from South Indian state of Kerala - Shaikh A.P. Aboobakar Ahmed Musliar, the General Secretary of the All India Muslim Scholars Association and Ahmed Siddeeq also attended the ceremony.
The washing ceremony was led by Makkah Governor Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah, on behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, who is said to be unwell. The Kaaba is given a new Kiswa (covering) on the 9th of Dul Hijjah when pilgrims proceed to Arafat for the main event of the Haj.
The ceremonial washing of Kaaba is held following the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who washed it after entering it at the time of the conquest of Makkah. The sacred event takes place twice a year on the 15th of Shabaan (the month preceding the fasting month of Ramadan) and in mid-Muharram (the month after Dul Hijjah when Muslims perform Haj).
South African Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq Jaafar said he deemed it a great honour to participate in the washing of the Kaaba. “This is the fifth time I am fortunate enough to get this honor,” the envoy added.
The washing ritual began with the performance of two raka'hs of Nafl prayer inside the Kaaba. The interior walls were then cleaned with rose, oud and musk perfumes using white cloth. Zamzam water mixed with rose perfume was then splashed on the floor and wiped with bare hands and palm leaves.
Before entering the Kaaba for the washing ceremony, the governor circled the Kaaba seven times (Tawaf) during which he touched the Black Stone.
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