The Kiswah, the cloth that covers the K’abah, has been raised ahead of Hajj season this year. It is customary to raise the cloth ahead of the season as a sign to the world that Hajj is approaching. The raising of the Kiswah holds no religious significance itself, but it is regarded as a symbolic act with centuries of tradition. The white cloth, which symbolizes the Ihram, has also been donned on the K’abah.
Some people have attributed other reasons to the raising of the Kiswah each year. One of these reasons is to prevent damage to the cloth due to the large crowds present during Hajj. It is also said to protect the Kiswah from superstitious activities of some people who cut it in the hope of obtaining some spiritual benefit and take it with them back to their countries.
This annual ceremony of Kiswah replacement is expected to take place on Muharram 1st, 1445. The symbolism and tradition of raising the Kiswah is significant to the Hajj season and those who undertake the pilgrimage. The event marks the start of the season and acts as a reminder to all that the Hajj is an important event to be prepared for and celebrated.
