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 The Hizam |
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The hizam is part of the textile covering for the Ka'bah in Makkah (Mecca). It is the belt-like band that engirdles the upper part of
the building, and is renewed every year during the Pilgrimage season. In the 19th century the hizam took the form of eight calligraphic
panels, two to a side. This hizam would have been positioned on the south side of the Ka'bah.
The inscription is written in thuluth script. Developed by the late 9th century it is characterized by curved letters written with
barbed heads, and is recognised as the appropriate ornamental script for calligraphic inscriptions, titles and headings. The letters
are linked and sometimes intersecting, creating an impression of complexity and constant movement.
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The inscription on this hizam reads:
"God has spoken the truth.
Follow the religion of Abraham,
The Upright in faith
He was not of the Polytheists."
Surely, the first House
Appointed for people was at Bakkah;
Full of blessing, and a guidance
for all kinds of beings:
In it are Manifest Signs,
The Station of Abraham.
- The Qur'an 3:95, 97 (partial)
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On a sunny day the sun glints off the Kiswa's gold and silver embroidered hizam. At night the hizam shines softly in the open courtyard
of the Masjid al-Haram (Great Mosque). The overall effect is inspiring and becomes part of the memory of the Hajj, to be revisited
many times.
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