ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION In the Qur'an. Muslims are enjoined to face the sacred precincts in Mecca during their prayers. The relevant verse (2.144) translates: 'turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque; wherever you may be, turn your face towards it ...'. The physical focus of Muslim worship is actually the Ka'ba, the cube-shaped edifice in the heart of Mecca. This formerly pagan shrine of uncertain historical origin became the physical focus of the new religion of Islam, a pointer to the presence of God.
