Why do Muslims kiss the black stone in the kaaba when they do hajj or umra?

In a Nutshell: The Prophet (saw) explained the wisdom behind tawaaf when he said: "Circumambulation of the Ka'bah (tawaaf), going between as-Safa and al-Marwah (sa'i), and stoning the Jamaraat have only been ordained to establish the remembrance of Allah." Introduction In Islam, certain rituals hold profound significance, serving as channels for believers to connect with Allah. One such ritual is Tawaaf, the circumambulation of the ka'bah in Makkah. This article delves into the wisdom behind Tawaaf, shedding light on its spiritual and religious importance as elucidated by the Prophet (peace be upon him). The one who circumambulates the kabah, does so whilst feeling awe of Allah in his heart. Thus he is in a state of remembrance of Allah and all his movements – walking, kissing or touching the Black Stone and the Yemeni Corner, or pointing to the Black Stone – all come under the heading of remembering Allah, because they are all acts of worship, and all acts of worship are remembrance of Allah, in general terms. As for the words that he utters of takbeer, dhikr and du'aa', they come under the heading of remembering Allah. As for kissing the Black Stone, it is an act of worship in which a person kisses a stone to which he has no connection except worshipping Allah, by venerating it and following the Messenger (saw) by doing that, as it is proven Umar ibn al-Khattaab (ra) said, when he kissed the Black Stone: I know you are a stone and have no power to harm or benefit; were it not that I saw the Prophet (saw) kissing you, I would not have kissed you. Wisdom Behind Tawaaf The Prophet (peace be upon him) elucidated the purpose of Tawaaf, stating that it, along with other rituals such as Sa'i (going between Safa and Marwah) and stoning the Jamaraat, is ordained to establish the remembrance of Allah. This underscores the profound spiritual nature of Tawaaf, wherein the believer engages in acts of worship while being mindful of Allah's presence. Remembrance of Allah in Tawaaf: Every action performed during Tawaaf, whether it's walking, kissing or touching the Black Stone, or reciting Takbeer and Du'aa, is considered an act of remembrance of Allah. These actions, imbued with sincerity and reverence, serve to strengthen the believer's connection with the Divine. Kissing the Black Stone: Kissing the Black Stone is an act of worship wherein the believer venerates it solely for the sake of Allah, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The act symbolizes adherence to the Sunnah and reverence for the traditions of Islam. Dispelling Misconceptions: Contrary to some misconceptions, seeking blessings from the Black Stone is unfounded in Islamic teachings. Similarly, likening Tawaaf to idolatry is categorically rejected by scholars, as Tawaaf is a manifestation of obedience to Allah's command and an expression of faith. Tawaaf: A Pillar of Islam Circumambulation of the ka'bah is not merely a ritual; it is one of the greatest acts of worship in Islam. It forms the cornerstone of the Hajj pilgrimage and is considered one of the pillars of Islam. The tranquility experienced during Tawaaf signifies the believer's closeness to Allah and underscores the sanctity of the House of Allah. Conclusion Tawaaf embodies the essence of Islamic worship, serving as a means for believers to express their devotion to Allah. Understanding the significance of Tawaaf deepens one's spiritual journey and strengthens their connection to the divine. As believers perform Tawaaf, they embody the timeless tradition of obedience and reverence established by the Prophet (peace be upon him), reaffirming their faith and devotion to Allah (swt).