What are the recommended actions upon entering the Ka'bah?

Chapter on the Description of Hajj

Al-Mughni

Book of Hajj

Book 11 · Issue 1 · Bab 5

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is recommended to enter the Ka'bah, declare the Takbir (Allahu Akbar) in its corners, perform two rak'ahs of prayer, and supplicate to Allah Almighty. Ibn Umar reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) entered the Ka'bah with Bilal and Usama ibn Zayd, and Bilal confirmed that the Messenger of Allah prayed inside, specifically between the two columns facing him. This action is supported by the explicit report of prayer, despite uncertainty regarding the number of rak'ahs performed by the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Supporting text

Ibn Abbas reported from Usama that when the Prophet (peace be upon him) entered the Ka'bah, he supplicated in all its corners but did not pray inside until he exited. Scholars preferred Bilal's narration over Usama's because Bilal affirmed an action, whereas Usama negated it. Furthermore, Usama was young at the time, making it plausible he was preoccupied observing the interior of the Ka'bah and overlooked the Prophet's prayer.