The Most Virtuous Acts of Worship at the Kaaba

Masjid al-Haram is the most virtuous mosque on earth. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated that one prayer performed in Masjid al-Haram is more virtuous than one hundred thousand prayers performed elsewhere. Every moment spent near the Kaaba is precious, yet certain acts of worship are especially recommended.

1. Tawaf

Tawaf is the greatest act of worship unique to the Kaaba. Voluntary tawaf may also be performed outside Hajj and Umrah; for visitors coming from afar, voluntary tawaf is considered more virtuous than voluntary prayer in the mosque.

2. Prayer in Masjid al-Haram

Performing the obligatory prayers in congregation at Masjid al-Haram carries immense reward. Arriving well before the prayer time makes it easier to find a place, and the waiting time itself becomes worship.

3. Gazing at the Kaaba

It has been related that even looking at the Kaaba is an act of worship. Contemplating the Kaaba from the upper floors or the courtyard is a beautiful practice that purifies the heart.

4. Prayer in Hijr Ismail

Hijr Ismail, also called the Hatim, lies outside the Kaaba building but is legally considered part of the Kaaba itself. A voluntary prayer performed there is regarded as if performed inside the Kaaba. When our mother Aisha expressed her wish to pray inside the Kaaba, the Prophet (peace be upon him) told her to pray in the Hijr.

5. Dua at Multazam

The section between the Black Stone and the door of the Kaaba is called Multazam. It is among the places where prayers are hoped to be accepted; making dua there is recommended when it is not crowded.

6. Drinking Zamzam

Zamzam is the blessed water reported to be a cure according to the intention with which it is drunk. It is proper etiquette to drink it facing the qibla, saying bismillah and making dua.