For centuries, the Kaaba has stood as the heart of Muslim worship, uniting millions of believers across the globe. Among its most spiritually significant spots is the Multazam, the area between the corner of Black Stone (hajar al-aswad) and the door of the Kaaba. This narrow yet profound space carries a history rooted in Sunnah and is cherished by Muslims who approach it with humility, hope, and faith.
What is the Multazam?
The word “Multazam” comes from the Arabic root meaning “to cling” or “to adhere.” True to its name, the Multazam is where believers hold tightly to the Kaaba’s wall, pressing their chest, face, and hands against it while pouring out their prayers. It is believed to be a place where duas (supplications) are accepted, making it one of the most sought-after spots during Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Historical records show that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself prayed at the Multazam after the conquest of Makkah, establishing its enduring spiritual importance. Since then, Muslims across centuries, whether during the era of the Abbasid caliphs, Ottoman sultans, or the modern guardianship of Saudi Arabia, have honored this sacred point as a direct connection to divine mercy.
A Practice Rooted in Sunnah and Narrations
The significance of the Multazam is preserved in the narrations of early companions. Abdullah Ibn Abbas (RA) is reported to have said that the Multazam is a place where duas are answered. Scholars narrate that he would guide believers to cling to it during Hajj or Umrah and make specific supplications there.
Other early figures, like Abdullah ibn Umar, also mentioned the value of pressing oneself against the Kaaba at this location. These accounts give confidence that placing the chest, hands, or even cheeks against the House is in line with the sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh) and his companions. Scholars mention that Ibn Abbas saw the Messenger of Allah clasp to the Multazam, and this act has been narrated in works like Abu Dawood.
Purpose of the Multazam
The purpose of the Multazam extends beyond physical contact. It symbolizes:
- Submission to Allah: Placing the chest and hands against the door of the Ka’bah or the corner and the door represents surrendering one’s ego and trusting in divine mercy.
- Dua acceptance: The area between the Hajar al-Aswad and the door approximately two metres wide, is known as the place of clinging. Narrations affirm that this is where acceptance for any dua made is most likely.
- Spiritual renewal: Clinging to the Multazam reminds Muslims of accountability and the eternal bond with Allah.
- Unity of worship: Pilgrims from every corner of the globe gather near this narrow space, proving that Islam unites diverse hearts in a single act of devotion.
Informational Insights
- Location: The Multazam lies directly between the corner and the door of the holy Kaaba, right beside the Hajar al-Aswad.
- Practice: Believers place their chest, hands, and cheeks against the Kaaba, whispering supplications, Qur’anic verses, or personal duas. Many narrations state that the Prophet ﷺ would place his chest there, setting a timeless precedent.
- Timing: While it can be done during Hajj and Umrah, or even in voluntary Tawaf, the crowd near the Grand Mosque in Mecca often makes it difficult. Even then, raising hands toward it carries blessings.
- Historical continuity: From the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to the era when the Prophet ﷺ conquered Makkah, and onwards, Muslims have been seen clinging to this blessed spot. The tradition continues in the two holy mosques under the care of Saudi Arabia.
- Connection with the Kiswah: At here, believers also touch the black silk Kiswah, embroidered with Qur’anic verses in gold and silver, which enhances reverence for the holy Kaaba.
Spiritual Impact During Tawaf
As Muslims perform Tawaf, circling the Ka’bah, they often pause at the Multazam. Many narrate that this moment becomes the most emotional part of their worship. Some are moved to tears, others into silent reflection, and many to heartfelt supplications.
The closeness to the door of the Ka’bah, the area between the Hajar al-Aswad and the door, and the sacred wall creates a sense of divine nearness. Scholars say that those who grasp to the Multazam find hope that their prayers are among the signs of acceptance. For many, it becomes a moment when the Ka’bah will certainly be seen as more than stone it is a place where dua made between the Hajar al-Aswad and the door reaches Allah’s mercy.
Conclusion
The Ka’bah is called the Multazam not only because it is a place of clinging but because it is a symbol of humility, hope, and answered prayers. The area between the black stone and the door of the Ka’bah, though narrow, carries immeasurable significance in Islamic history. It was here that companions narrated how they saw the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) cling to the Multazam, and where Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) taught that every sincere supplication has acceptance. From the time of the conquest of Makkah, until today, millions continue this sunnah, proving the timeless nature of the practice.
For Muslims who visit the mosque in Makkah during Hajj or Umrah, the Multazam is more than a wall; it is a door to divine mercy. As hearts press against it, believers find the eternal truth: Allah’s nearness is just a supplication away.
