Welcome to the Umrah International blog! As a premier travel agency dedicated to enriching your spiritual journey, we aim to provide you with insightful information about significant Islamic sites. Today, we delve into the captivating world of Masjid Al Nabawi, one of Islam’s holiest mosques located in the heart of Madinah.
A Spiritual Hub
Masjid Al Nabawi serves as a focal point for millions of Muslims who visit annually, many of whom aspire to pray in this sacred site at least once in their lifetime. While the mosque’s prominence is widely acknowledged, several intriguing aspects remain lesser-known. Here, we present ten fascinating facts about Masjid Al Nabawi that illuminate its rich history and significance.
1. Proximity to the Prophet’s Home
Masjid Al Nabawi is located adjacent to the home of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His sacred chamber, situated in the mosque’s southern section, is believed to be the very house where he lived with his wife, Aisha (RA).
2. The First Imam
The first imam of Masjid Al Nabawi was none other than Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself. During his lifetime, he led numerous prayers and delivered impactful sermons within its walls, establishing it as a cornerstone of Islamic worship.
3. Historical Significance
Construction of Masjid Al Nabawi began in September 622 AD (Rabi-ul-Awwal) and was completed eight months later in April 632 AD (Shawwal), making it over 1,400 years old. This remarkable history underscores its importance in Islamic heritage.
4. The Green Dome
The mosque’s iconic green dome, known as Gunbad-e-Khizra, is a defining feature. Originally not green, it has undergone several renovations since its construction in 678 AH. The color green holds special significance in Islam, often associated with the Prophet (PBUH) himself, who was known to wear a green turban and cloak.
5. Expansive Grounds
Spanning 82,000 square meters, Masjid Al Nabawi is larger than the old city of Yathrib (Madinah). It has expanded a hundredfold since its inception, accommodating over 3.2 million worshippers at once, making it the second-largest mosque in the world.
6. The Silver Dome
Visitors often notice a striking silver dome adjacent to the green dome. For over 600 years, Masjid Al Nabawi had no dome. In the 16th century, a wooden dome was constructed, but it was replaced with a 24-karat gold-plated stainless steel dome in the early 2000s. This dome weighs an impressive 160 tons.
7. Multiple Mihrabs
While the mosque features several mihrabs, the one used by the imam is historically significant as it was also used by the Prophet (PBUH). In total, there are six mihrabs, each serving a unique purpose within the mosque.
8. The First Adhan
Bilal ibn Rabah (RA), the Prophet’s muezzin, was the first to call the adhan (the call to prayer) in Masjid Al Nabawi. His voice resonated throughout Madinah, marking the establishment of a significant Islamic tradition.
9. An Empty Grave for Isa (AS)
Within the sacred Rawdah, which houses the graves of the Prophet (PBUH), Abu Bakr (RA), and Umar (RA), there is an empty grave reserved for Isa (AS). This symbolizes the belief that he will return and be buried beside the Prophet (PBUH).
10. A Modern Marvel
Masjid Al Nabawi was the first place in the Arabian Peninsula to be illuminated with electric lights in 1909. Today, it dazzles with over 100,000 light bulbs and features 1,000 speakers, ensuring the adhan reaches up to 10 kilometers away.
The Holiest Mosques in Islam
Masjid Al Nabawi holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, ranking second only to Masjid Al Haram in Makkah. Together with Masjid Al Aqsa, these three mosques are revered as the most sacred sites in Islam.
Conclusion
Originally established by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Madinah, Masjid Al Nabawi has evolved into a monumental symbol of faith, community, and history. Its profound legacy continues to inspire millions, serving not only as a place of worship but also as the final resting place of the Prophet and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA).
At Umrah International, we are committed to guiding you through your spiritual journey. Whether you’re planning to visit Masjid Al Nabawi or seeking to deepen your connection to Islam, we are here to support you every step of the way. Embrace the opportunity to explore this magnificent mosque and enrich your faith
