Makkah Mukarramah: The shift of Kiswa from the Kaaba now begins at the beginning of a new Islamic year. The Muslims’ Kiswa is vital in the Muslim world, and it marks the start of an Islamic calendar that is respected by Muslims worldwide.
Kiswa was changed at Masjid al-Haram, one of Islam’s revered mosques. Several dignitaries and religious scholars were present at the occasion, as were many pilgrims who had gathered to view this holy act. They delivered Kiswa from Kiswa Factory to Masjid al-Haram with utmost care, reverence, and respect.
The report indicates that the 1,300-kilogram new Kiswah cost 20 million riyals. One hundred fifty-nine skilled craftsmen participated in making this elaborate covering. These artists worked untiringly to ensure that top-quality artistry reflected its profound purpose.
Hence, it comprises silk weighing approximately 670 kilograms woven carefully into a beautiful and durable material. Thus, the workers demonstrate their skill by intricately designing some parts of the Kiswa. They decorate its fabric with Quranic verses, inscribing them using over 120 kilograms of gold and silver, totaling more than 1000 kilograms in weight. These precious metals serve as significant elements when embroidering lines that give splendor and sanctity to the Kiswah.
This process represents an intricate dance between various parties involved to succeed. After removing it from the Kaaba, they divide the old Kiswah into pieces and distribute them worldwide to various Muslim leaders and organizations as a token/gesture of goodwill. They then place the new Kiswah over the Kaaba, symbolizing the revival of faith while continuing this holy tradition.
This annual service celebrates the start of a new Islamic year and serves as a worldwide reminder of Muslim unity and dedication, centered around the Kaaba at the heart of Masjid al-Haram, which Muslims face when praying. Consequently, changing its Kiswah becomes such a critical spiritual moment that it touches the lives of the faithful.
The Kiswa Factory that produces the covering is a hub for excellent craftsmanship and religious devotion. Artisans in this factory undergo rigorous training to equip them with the skills needed for this sacred role. Combining traditional methods and modern technology ensures that every Kiswah becomes an expression of Islamic art and piety.
The changing of the Kiswa is a revered tradition signifying the beginning of the Islamic New Year. The Masjid al-Haram ceremony is also spiritually refreshing and inclusive of Muslims from all ethnic backgrounds. It represents a significant effort made by people who used only pure silk, gold, and silver. Therefore, this yearly function not only renews the covering but also builds unity among all Muslims worldwide through faith.
