The annual sacred tradition of replacing the Kiswa (cover) of the Holy Kaaba commenced on Wednesday evening at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. This spiritually significant event, marking the arrival of Hijri Year 1447, is overseen by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque and carried out by the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa.
Historic Tradition Carried into the New Hijri Year
For more than a century, the ceremonial changing of the Kaaba’s Kiswa has been a revered tradition. The ceremony is expected to conclude by Thursday morning, aligning with the first day of the new Islamic year. Earlier, on June 8, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, the Deputy Emir of Makkah, handed over the new Kiswa to Abdul Malik bin Taha Al-Shaibi, the senior keeper of the Grand Mosque.
Masterfully Crafted New Kiswa with Gold and Silver Threads
The new Kiswa, crafted from natural black-dyed silk, is embroidered with 24-karat gold-plated silver thread. The ceremony began with officials removing the gilded curtain from the Kaaba door, which measures 6.35 meters by 3.33 meters, and dismantling decorative elements like chandeliers—marking the start of this intricate process.
154 Skilled Saudi Craftsmen Leading the Process
A fully Saudi team of 154 expert craftsmen, trained both scientifically and practically, is leading the ceremonial replacement. Their responsibilities include detaching the old Kiswa and installing the new one, made of 47 black silk panels embroidered with 68 verses from the Quran.
Each panel is meticulously stitched using 24-karat gold-plated silver threads, and the total Kiswa weighs about 1,415 kilograms. The production involved:
- 120 kg of gold-plated silver thread
- 60 kg of pure silver
- 825 kg of silk
- 410 kg of raw cotton
Additionally, 54 gilded pieces were created using eight specialized weaving machines inside the King Abdulaziz Complex.
Symbol of Saudi Arabia’s Enduring Commitment to Islamic Heritage
The annual renewal of the Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa is more than ceremonial it is a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving Islamic heritage and serving the Two Holy Mosques. The entire event resonates deeply with spiritual symbolism and national pride.
For more news on Makkah and the Grand Mosque, read about the Kiswa replacement announcement and other Hajj 2024 updates.
