حِجر إسماعيل / الحَطيم
The Hijr Ismail (also called Hatim) is the semi-circular white marble wall on the northwest side of the الكعبة. Originally part of the الكعبة structure, praying inside this area is considered equivalent to praying inside the الكعبة itself. It is associated with Prophet Ismail (AS) and his mother Hajar.
When the Quraysh rebuilt the الكعبة before Islam, they ran short of lawful funds and could not complete the full original foundation laid by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). The portion they left out was marked by a low wall called the Hatim. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) confirmed that the Hijr was originally part of the الكعبة. It is also associated with Prophet Ismail (AS) and his mother Hajar (AS), and some narrations state they are buried in this area.
Praying inside the Hijr Ismail is considered equivalent to praying inside the الكعبة, as it was originally part of the sacred structure. It is one of the most blessed spots in المسجد الحرام and holds deep connections to the family of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
The Hijr Ismail is accessible to all الزوار and is a highly sought-after place for الصلاة since praying here is equivalent to praying inside the الكعبة. It becomes very crowded, especially after واجب الصلوات. The best times to access it are late at night or early morning. During الطواف, الحجاج must walk around the outside of the Hijr wall, not through it.