Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2010

Global Religions and Shrines

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

What is 'Kaaba'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Sacred structures often define the communal focus of a faith. The Kaaba is the metaphysical center of the Islamic world and the point toward which all Muslims pray.

Explanation The Kaaba is a cube-shaped building at the center of the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the most sacred site in Islam.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It is covered with a black silk cloth called the Kiswah.
Logic 2: Embedded in its eastern corner is the Black Stone, believed to be a meteorite and a relic from the time of Adam and Eve.
Logic 3: Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage here, encircling the Kaaba (Tawaf) as a sign of unity and devotion.

Active Recall

Question

What is the significance of the 'Qibla' in relation to the Kaaba?

Answer

The Qibla is the fixed direction toward the Kaaba that Muslims must face during their daily ritual prayers (Salah).

Core Insight

The Kaaba's architecture—a simple cube—emphasizes the Islamic principle of monotheism and the equality of all believers regardless of status.