How do we respond to those who claim that the rituals of Hajj, such as circumambulating the Kaaba and kissing the Black Stone, are pagan practices and idol worship?

Hajj is one of the pillars of Islam, and slandering its rituals is slandering Islam and apostasy from the religion. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, performed Hajj and carried out rituals such as circumambulating the Kaaba (Tawaf) and kissing the Black Stone. He said: "Learn your rituals from me." These rituals are not idolatrous, for Islam came to fight idolatry, and the Companions detested it. Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, kissed the Stone, saying: "I know that you are a stone, you neither harm nor benefit. Had I not seen the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, kissing you, I would not have kissed you." This is proof of submission to Allah's command and following His Messenger. These rituals are from the piety of hearts and a revival of the memory of Ibrahim, peace be upon him.