Seerah - The Life of the Prophet (pbuh)

Rebuilding the Ka`bah
The Ka`bah was a small building existing from the time of the Prophet
Ibr\h|m u. The treasures within the building were vulnerable, for it
had no roof to protect them from the top. Being an ancient structure, it
had begun to exhibit signs of natural decline too. Adding to all this, a
flood had wrought extensive damage to the exterior. Considering all
this, the Quraysh took the decision to rebuild it.
It was decided that only *al\l money would be used in its
reconstruction. The Ka`bah was brought down to the foundations of
Ibr\h|m u. Not to deprive anyone of the honour of reconstruction,
various projects were assigned to various tribes. The work was carried
out in peace until the time came for the restoration of the sacred black
stone. This was a privilege no tribe wished to be deprived of.
Soon, a serious argument broke out and it seemed that the issue would
not be resolved without bloodshed. Fortunately, a proposition was
made and agreed upon by all. It was suggested that the first to enter the
*aram the following morning would arbitrate and decide, and his
decision would be accepted by all.
The first to enter the *aram in the morning was the young Mu#ammad
r. All were overjoyed and cried out in his praise, expressing their
willingness to go by his decision. Upon being informed of the situation,
the Prophet r called for a sheet and placed the stone upon it. He then
told each tribe to take hold of a corner of the sheet and carry it to
where the stone was to be placed. He then lifted the stone himself and
lodged it in its proper place. Thus he managed to resolve what seemed
to be an insoluble issue and averted the prospect of bloodshed.
11