How to Use a Kaaba Compass as a Normal Compass

Kaaba, or Qibla, compasses orient you toward Mecca and true north.

The Kaaba compass, also spelled and spoken as Ka'aba or Qibla, locates the direction of Mecca. This tool allows Muslim individuals to complete their daily prayers facing toward Mecca. Like a standard compass, the needles on a Kaaba compass are magnetically sensitive so individuals can use the compass at from any given location. While orienting yourself with a Kaaba compass may be slightly confusing because of its unique markings, it works in a manner similar to a traditional compass.

Instructions

1. Adjust your Kaaba compass to point toward Mecca. Most Kaaba compasses come with a scale around the perimeter of the circle with a numbered or lettered system. These compasses should come with a booklet with corresponding compass codes for your location, based upon local cities. Match the red compass needle on the compass with the code in your accompanying booklet. The minaret spike on the Kaaba compass should point toward Mecca when this red point matches with your city code on the marked compass.

2. Examine the red tip of the compass needle after you have pointed your Kaaba compass toward Mecca. This red tip should always point toward the earth's magnetic north pole.

3. Hold the compass in your hand with the red compass needle lined up with the north marking, "N." Make sure the compass is lying flat in the palm of your hand.

4. Decide which direction you want to travel in, for example east. Turn your whole body in a clockwise circle keeping the Kaaba compass flat in your hand until the red end of the arrow hits the “E” for east marking. Turn the compass housing, the cover piece that holds the letters, “N,” “S,” “W” and “E,” until the “N” matches up with the red arrow again. Utilize the new placement of the letters to go in the direction you wish, for example east.

References

• Moonsighting: Qibla Direction
• Learn Orienteering: How to Use a Compass