2 – “And when We settled Abraham in the site of the House, [saying]: ‘Do not associate anything with Me, and purify My House for those who circumambulate it, and for those who stand, bow, and prostrate.’” (Al-Hajj 22:26)

Here Allah the Exalted recalls the majesty of the Sacred House and the honor of its builder, the intimate friend (khalīl) of the Most Merciful. His words “And when We settled Abraham in the site of the House” mean: We prepared the location for him and pointed it out, appointing some of his descendants to dwell around it.

Allah then commanded Abraham to construct the House. He and his son Ishmael raised its foundations on piety and Allah’s good pleasure, with truthful intention, humility, and sincere devotion, imploring that He accept this momentous deed. Allah did accept it, and the signs of that acceptance have remained evident in every age.

He also charged Abraham never to associate anything with Him—that he should rid himself, his progeny, and everyone who receives his summons of every trace of polytheism.

“And purify My House”—that is, cleanse it of idolatry, disobedience, and all physical and moral defilement. By ascribing the House to Himself, Allah granted it an honor upon honor and deepened its love in people’s hearts, for it is the House of the One they love most. Thus hearts are drawn toward it from every quarter, and its purity and exaltation are magnified for those who circle it and those who stand there engaged in the various acts of worship.

“…and those who bow and prostrate”—meaning the worshippers. Purify it for these noble servants whose only concern is obedience to their Master and whatever brings them nearer to Him. They have a rightful claim, and honoring them requires cleansing the House for them and preparing it for the devotions they seek to perform there.

Purification also includes removing loud, aimless voices that disturb those occupied with prayer, circumambulation, recitation, or any other form of worship.