Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, also known as the Prophet's Mosque, is a holy site for Muslims. Every year, millions of Muslims from all over the world flock to the city of Medina in Saudi Arabia to visit this spectacular building. Although the Prophet's Mosque is well-known for its aesthetic and spiritual value, there are still many mysteries to be discovered about it. This article explores ten fascinating little-known details about this holy site.
Unique Architecture and Expansions:
In the seventh century, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) constructed the first iteration of the Prophet's Mosque. The mosque has undergone multiple renovations and extensions throughout the years to suit the growing number of attendees. With a massive 400,500 square metres of space, the current building can accommodate over a million worshippers.
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The Green Dome:
The Green Dome in the mosque's interior is one of the building's most recognisable elements. The graves of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his two companions, Abu Bakr and Umar, are under its protection. The mosque's distinctive dome was constructed during the rule of the Ottoman Empire.
Rawdah:
The Rawdah is a small section of the Prophet's Mosque that is revered by Muslims as a miniature paradise. It is denoted by a green carpet and holds great religious significance for Muslims. It is believed that prayers made in this holy land will be answered more quickly.
Palm Trees in the Mosque:
The Prophet's Mosque, contrary to popular belief, has palm trees on its grounds. These palms are rooted in the original tree that offered miraculous shade to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) throughout his lifetime.
Underground Chambers:
The Prophet's Chamber, or Hujrat al-Nabi, is one of several underground chambers beneath the mosque. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his family lived in these quarters. Today, tourists can peek into these rooms and learn more about the Prophet's past.
The Dates Market:
Souq Al Zal, the Dates Market, is located right next to the Prophet's Mosque. Dates, a staple food on the Arabian Peninsula, may be found here in a vast variety. The market is a bustling centre where locals and visitors alike may sample the delicious dates.
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The Minbar of the Prophet:
The pulpit, or Minbar, where Muhammad (peace be upon him) preached is an important piece of Islamic history. It was built by one of the Prophet's companions and was first used by him to give discourses. The existing Minbar is a stunning teakwood building with intricate carvings.
The Old Mihrab:
An historic mihrab (prayer niche) at the Prophet's Mosque is referred to as the "Mihrab of Aisha." The Prophet's wife Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) is thought to have prayed at this mihrab. It's a symbol of the bond that united the Prophet with his loved ones.
The Quba Mosque:
The Quba Mosque, one of Islam's earliest places of worship, can be found right on the outskirts of the Prophet's Mosque complex. It is of great importance because the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) helped build it. For devout Muslims, a trip to the Quba Mosque is an exceptional spiritual experience.
The Well of Zamzam:
The Well of Zamzam is located inside the Prophet's Mosque. The Prophet and his companions were thirsty on the journey from Makkah to Medina, and it is said that Allah miraculously created this water for them. Pilgrims can now visit this holy well to partake of its waters and seek blessings.
The Prophet's Mosque is more than just a place of prayer; it also serves as a vivid reminder of Islam's long and illustrious past. These ten fascinating and previously unknown details about the mosque shed light on its magnificent design, profound religious meaning, and fascinating history. Whether you are a practising Muslim or just interested about Islam, a trip to the Prophet's Mosque will forever change you.
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