The meaning of Istilam (touching the Black Stone)
Chapter on Mentioning Hajj and Entering Makkah
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Istilam means wiping the Black Stone with the hand, derived from the term 'Salam' (the stone itself). Thus, when the Stone is wiped, it is termed Istilam, meaning wiping the Salam. It is recommended that one entering the mosque prioritizes Tawaf around the House before attending to anything else, following the example of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). Evidence is found in the authentic narration of Jabir: 'Until we came to the House with him, he touched the corner [Hajar al-Aswad], performed Ramal for three circuits, and walked for four.' It is established that Tawaf is the greeting for the Sacred Mosque, similar to the two Rak'ahs recommended for entering other mosques.
Supporting text
It is narrated from Aisha via Urwah that when the Prophet (peace be upon him) arrived in Mecca, he performed ablution, then performed Tawaf around the House. This practice was narrated by Urwah from Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Abdullah ibn Umar, Muawiyah, Ibn al-Zubayr, the Muhajireen, Aisha, and Asma bint Abi Bakr.