The Kaaba is the heart of the Islamic world; its covering is the most elegant armor of that heart. As we watch the magnificent changing ceremony that takes place every year during the Hajj season, we all wonder: Why is this covering changed? What is inside it? And most importantly, did that small piece in our homes really come from the Kaaba?
Let’s take a closer look at the story of black silk and gold embroidery.
Why and When is the Kaaba Cover Changed?
The changing of the Kaaba cover is not merely a cleaning process, but also a deeply rooted tradition.
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Timing: Traditionally, the cover is changed every year on the morning after the dawn prayer on the first day of Eid al-Adha (Zilhicce 10). Pilgrims change it on the morning after the dawn prayer on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah. 0″ data-index-in-node=”43″>the first day of Eid al-Adha (Zilhicce 10) after the morning prayer. While the pilgrims are at Arafat, the Kaaba is covered with its new covering.
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Why? It needs to be renewed both because weather conditions (sun, wind, rain) wear it out and because this change is a symbol of respect and renewal for the Kaaba.
Materials Used in the Production of Kisve
The Kaaba cover is one of the world’s most expensive and unique textiles. Its production takes approximately one year and is prepared by over 200 artisans in a special factory in Mecca.
| Material | Quantity / Feature |
| Pure Silk | Approximately 670 kg of raw silk (dyed black). |
| Gold Embroidery | Approximately 120 kg of gold wire. |
| Silver Workmanship | Approximately 100 kg of silver wire. |
| Dimensions | Total 658 square meters area; consists of 47 pieces. |
Did the Pieces in Our House Really Come from the Kaaba?
Let’s get to the most frequently asked question: “Did that framed Kaaba cover we have really stay on the Kaaba for a whole year?”
Answer: Yes, most likely it did!
Here’s how the process works:
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When the old cover is removed, it is cut into pieces.
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These pieces are gifted to Islamic countries, heads of state, museums, and high-level guests.
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If you have a piece that comes from a certified or reliable source, that piece has witnessed the pilgrimage of millions of believers for a full year, and it is a trust that has touched the stones of the Kaaba.
A brief note: During the Ottoman period, Turkey would send the Kaaba cover from Istanbul every year via the “Surre Alayları” (processions). This is why it is possible to see much older and more historical Kisve pieces in many mosques in our country (such as Bursa Ulu Mosque).
How is the Change Process Monitored?
The covering change is a true engineering marvel. The new covering is pulled upward over the old one and put in place. This ensures the privacy of the Kaaba is preserved and its stones are never exposed at any moment.