Page 248 - Signs from the Qur'an

The stone, which is called "Hajar al-Aswad" is tradition-
ally accepted as the starting point for the circling of the
Kaaba. According to stories, this stone was put in its place by
Prophet Abraham (pbuh). "Hajar al-Aswad" means "The

Black Stone."
This stone, which is found on the east side of the Kaaba,
is about one and a half meters high. It is yellowish black, and
oval shaped. There are red spots on it. The sides are covered
in silver. People making the Hajj begin their circulation of the
Kaaba at the Hajar al-Aswad. While circling the Kaaba, pil-
grims face this stone, lifting their hands in praise.