Introduction
Rukn-e-Yamani is one of the four corners of the Ka’bah in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah. It is located facing Yemen, which is why it is called “Rukn-e-Yamani” (The Yemeni Corner). This corner is considered sacred and special, as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized its significance in multiple Hadiths.
The Four Corners of the Ka’bah
The Ka’bah has four corners, each with a unique position:
- Rukn al-Aswad (Black Stone Corner) – Contains the Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone).
- Rukn al-Yamani (Yemeni Corner) – The corner before the Black Stone in Tawaf.
- Rukn al-Shami (Syrian Corner) – Located towards Syria.
- Rukn al-Iraqi (Iraqi Corner) – Located towards Iraq.
Among these, Rukn-e-Yamani and Hajr-e-Aswad are given special importance in Sunnah.
Historical Significance of Rukn-e-Yamani
- Built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS):
The Ka’bah was first built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) as a place of worship for Allah alone. Rukn-e-Yamani was part of their original foundation. - Part of the Original Ka’bah Structure:
Unlike the Black Stone, which was later placed into the Ka’bah, Rukn-e-Yamani has always remained part of its original walls. - Honored by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made it a practice to touch Rukn-e-Yamani during Tawaf and encouraged his followers to do the same.
Virtues and Sunnah of Rukn-e-Yamani
1. Wiping Rukn-e-Yamani Erases Sins
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Touching the Black Stone and Rukn-e-Yamani removes sins.”
(Reported in Ahmad and Tirmidhi)
This Hadith highlights that gently touching Rukn-e-Yamani during Tawaf is a way to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT).
2. Following the Sunnah in Tawaf
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to touch Rukn-e-Yamani with his right hand while performing Tawaf.
- Unlike Hajr-e-Aswad, the Prophet did not kiss or point towards Rukn-e-Yamani from a distance.
- If unable to touch it, one should continue without stopping or raising hands towards it.
3. The Special Dua Between Rukn-e-Yamani and Hajr-e-Aswad
Between Rukn-e-Yamani and Hajr-e-Aswad, the Prophet (PBUH) used to recite this powerful Dua:
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhab an-nar.”
(O our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.)
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201)
This Sunnah is still followed by millions of Muslims performing Tawaf around the Ka’bah.
Etiquette and Respect for Rukn-e-Yamani
- Touch it with your right hand during Tawaf if possible, without pushing others.
- Do not kiss it or point towards it (unlike Hajr-e-Aswad).
- Recite the Sunnah Dua when walking between Rukn-e-Yamani and Hajr-e-Aswad.
- Avoid harming other pilgrims in an attempt to touch it.