for mankind and a place of security" (2:125). In other words, it is to
serve as the focus for all men dispersed over the surface of the earth.
The Ka'bah is intended to serve as the centre of the universal
social order which the Qur'an outlines. This order is marked by both
the absence of sharr and the living presence of khair. The first aspect
is stressed when the Qur'an asserts that those who join the order will
ever remain free from fear and will enjoy security. The second aspect
is emphasised in this verse:
God has made Ka'bah a foothold for mankind to stand upon (5:97).
It means that through this social order, mankind will learn to
stand independently and rise to higher levels. It is to serve as the
starting point for the continued development of man. This point is
elaborated in the chapter, Hajj in the Qur'an. Mecca is declared to be
an open city, Admission into it and citizenship in it cannot be denied
to any man. Says the Qur'an:
“We have appointed al-Masjid al-Haraam (in Mecca) as a place of
security for mankind together, the dweller therein and the outsider”
(22:25).
Abraham (PBUH) was enjoined to "proclaim unto mankind the
Hajj" (22:27), so that all those who believe in the unity of mankind
may gather together and make that unity a visible fact. This is what
Hajj means. It will enable them to concentrate on their common
interests and will widen the area of agreement, "that they may
witness things that are of benefit to them" (22:28). Everybody is
welcome to Mecca, the Home of all men:
And a visit to this House is a duty unto Allah for mankind, for him who
can find a way hither (3:96).
It is the duty of every man, then, to visit the House of Allah if he
has the means and the will to do so. He alone will benefit by it and
not Allah, since "Allah is independent of all creatures" (3:96).
The invitation to the House of Allah is extended to all men. By
participating in this universal gathering, men become aware of their
common interests, aims and ideals. It is not a "religious gathering"
People who go there are expected to deliberate on all the problems
that confront mankind and seek their solution in such a way that the
path of progress is opened to man. It is incumbent on all who
participate in this gathering of men dedicated to the service of man,
to put away all narrow interests and think only of the good of
Political System 234