“Indeed, the first House [of worship] established for mankind was that at Bakkah – blessed and a guidance for the worlds.

In this ayah, Allah uses the word ‘Bakkah’ instead of ‘Makkah.’

Ibn Katheer says regarding this word: “Bakkah is one of the names of Makkah. Bakkah means, `it brings Buka’ (crying, weeping) to the tyrants and arrogant, meaning they cry and become humble in its vicinity. It was also said that Makkah was called Bakkah because people do Buka next to it, meaning they gather around it.”

Another implication of this word is explained. And that is that ‘Bakkah’ comes from the word ‘Bakk’ , a meaning of overcrowdedness/crowding.

The Qur’an is amazing because Allah places each word perfectly. So when He uses Bakkah, such as in this ayah, He mentions it in the context of Hajj since ‘Bakk’ signifies overcrowding and most overcrowding occurs at the time of Hajj.

And Allah knows best.

May Allah grant all those who have not been for Hajj, the opportunity to perform Hajj sooon, ameen.