Procedure for initiating Tawaf and interacting with the Black Stone
Chapter on Mentioning Hajj and Entering Makkah
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Tawaf must commence by approaching the Black Stone, touching it (Istilam), and kissing it. Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) kissed the Stone, stating: 'I know that you are a stone; you neither benefit nor harm. If I had not seen the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) kiss you, I would not have kissed you.' It is also narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) stood facing the Stone, placing his lips upon it and weeping for a long time, and upon turning, he saw Umar weeping, telling him: 'O Umar, this is where tears are shed.' If the Stone is confirmed to be in its place (and not removed, as the Qaramitah once did), one proceeds to touch and kiss it.
Supporting text
If one cannot touch or kiss the Stone, they should stand directly opposite it, face it, say Takbir (Allahu Akbar), and proclaim Lailaha Illallah (Tahlil). If one is riding, as Ibn Abbas narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) performed Tawaf on a camel, gesturing towards the Stone with something in his hand and saying Takbir at each circuit. The Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed Umar: 'You are a strong man; you distress the weak when you perform Tawaf around the House. If you see an interval from the Stone, draw near it; otherwise, say Takbir and move on.'