A new Kiswa (the black cloth covering the Holy Ka`bah) has been changed to commemorate the new hijri year 1447.
Saudi Arabia unveiled the new Kiswa—the black and gold silk cloth draped over the Kaaba in Makkah—on the first day of the Islamic New Year, continuing a sacred tradition rooted in the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Al-Arabiya English reported.
Woven from 670 kilograms of natural black silk and adorned with 150 kilograms of gold and silver-plated thread, this year’s Kiswa features 68 Quranic verses intricately embroidered with 24-karat gold-plated silver.
These verses are hand-stitched by skilled artisans at the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Manufacturing of the Kaaba’s Kiswa in Makkah, which produces the Kiswa annually at an estimated cost of $4.5 million (SAR 17 million).
The cloth spans 658 square meters, consists of 47 silk panels, and weighs over a metric ton.
A Ritual of Reverence
The installation of the new Kiswa takes place each year on the 1st of Muharram, the first day of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Over 100 specialists take part in the carefully timed operation, using electric lifts and scaffolding to ensure the Kaaba remains covered throughout the process.
To protect the fabric from wear during the crowded Hajj season, a white cotton covering known as the “Ihram of the Kaaba” is temporarily fitted around the lower portion of the cloth, shielding it from direct contact as millions of pilgrims perform tawaf (circumambulation).
What Happens to the Old Kiswa?
Once the new cloth is in place, the previous Kiswa is delicately removed, cleaned, and cut into around 56 pieces. These fragments are distributed by royal decree to dignitaries, religious institutions, and international Islamic organizations.
Some sections are preserved in government archives and conservation facilities to prevent deterioration.
Revered as symbols of spiritual and cultural legacy, these fragments are also featured in museums and official displays around the world. - aboutislam.net
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