Loving Muhammad-ur- Rasoolal- Laah (Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam) said "None of you truly believes until he loves me more than his own self, wealth, children, parents and all people".
For the world's more than one billion Muslims, the Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islaam. It is the spiritual culmination of a Muslim's life to visit the Ka'abah, the House of God, in the Holy Mosque, towards which Muslims around the globe face to pray five times a day. On the other hand, Muslims are drawn to Madinah Al-Munnawara not as a religious duty as in the case of Makkah, but out of love and respect for God's [Allaah Almighty] last Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
The person chosen to deliver this message in this specific form and extra-ordinary style of love and hope was the most beloved of Allaah Ta'ala and became the Light of Divinity, to be shed upon the entire universe. This Light devastated all the domains of darkness and depression. The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam is not only the perfect human, but he is the splendor of humanity. He is not only for a single nation, one city, one town or one country, but he is the mercy unto the worlds until Qiyamat. All the levels and path that lead to Almighty Allaah find their basis from him. Thus, we should remember him in every breath, on every step and in every time. Al Madinah is the abode of the best of the creation. The radiance of this city reaches the hearts of the Muslims far and near. It is the abode of Ieemaan
He it is Who sends blessings on you, as do His angels, that He may bring you out from the depths of Darkness into Light: and
Madinah Al Munawwarah [The Illuminated City]
The City of the Beloved is the City of Love. "Raza! In Allaah’s eyes we will have no worth if we do not love Madinah on this earth".
Imaam Ahmed Raza Khan [May Allaah Kareem be Pleased With Him]
The Radiant City is called Al Munawarah because it was enlightened by the light of Islam, and the light [Noor] of our Beloved Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] ever since then and it continues to carry us into the light that illuminates the universe. It was the first capital of Islam, it is in this city that the Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] established the first Islamic community, spent the last years of his life. The city embraces the Prophet’s Mosque and contains the final resting place, of the most beloved of all time, the city which was chosen to be the residence of the Greatest of all humanity,It was the the city of the "Ansaar" and their brothers the "Muhaajireen", who together formed the first Islamic army which entered Makkah in triumph 8 years after the Prophet's Migration. While the Holy Mosque in Makkah was the spiritual center of Islam, Madinah became the administrative hub of the new Islamic state during the Prophet Muhammad's [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] lifetime. It was also in Madinah that the Prophet's companions compiled the verses of the Holy Qur'an and collected the Hadees [teachings and sayings of the Prophet] [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] that would serve as the basis of Shari'ah [Islamic law].
Date groves
An ancient oasis, Madinaah Shareef continues to cultivate extensive gardens and farms that produce a variety of dates and vegetables.Like the city itself, Madinah's traditional date farms and vegetable gardens have also prospered. Of the 500 varieties of dates produced in the country, some 120 are cultivated here. Indeed, some of the most popular varieties, including the Ajwaa, are grown primarily in the date groves surrounding the city.
While the lives of the people of Madinah al Munawwarah continue to revolve around the Prophet's [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] Mosque, and in the service of its visitors, the city's inhabitants now support a dynamic business and commercial sector. Thousands of new stores and shops have been established in recent decades to cater to the needs of visitors and inhabitants alike. In the latter part of the twentieth century, Madinah has evolved into a modern urban center while retaining its strong religious and cultural values.
The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] had great love for this city. It was a city which loved the Prophet and which he in turn loved. He once said that "There is a cure for every disease in the dust of Madinah"
It is known by more than 90 names that generally denote love respect and devotion, the city is most commonly called Madinah [city], short for Madinah Al-Nabee [City of the Prophet]
Taiebah [good, pleasant], is the name by which the Messenger of Allaah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] eloquently and lovingly spoke of it, some of the beloved city’s name are Al-Miskeenah [the Humble], Al-Jibaarah [the Extraordinary], Al-Mujboorah [the Formidable], Al Jaabirah [the Comforter], Al Mahboobah [the Beloved], Al Qasamah [the Destroyer of Disbelief], Daar Al Abraar [Abode of the Justified], Daar Al Hijrah [Centre of Emigration], Daar As Salaam [Abode of Peace], Daar Al Fath [Centre of Conquest], Al Mukhtarah [the Preferred], Al Saalihah [the Excellent], Daar Al Mustafa [Abode of the Chosen], Qariyah Al Ansaar [Village of the Helpers], Dhaat Al Nakhl [Possessed of Date Palms], Sayyidah Al Baldaan [Eminent of Towns], Dhaat Al Harraar [Possessor of Nobility], Daar Al Akhyaar [Abode of Superiority], Al Marhoomah [the Kindness], Al Khairah [the Best], Al Shaafa’ah [the Mediator], Al Mubaarakah [the Blessed]
The Messenger of Allaah Ta’aala our Beloved Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] said: "Madinah is the dome of Islam, the seat of faith, the land of emigration and the place of [the distinction between] the lawful and the unlawful.".....Narrated by Hazrat Anas -...[Radhi Allaahu anhu] The Prophet said, "O Allaah! Bestow on Madinah twice the blessings You bestowed on Makkaah." Whenever the Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] returned from a journey he would make his Mount go fast, he would make it gallop because of his love for Madinah.
The entire city of Madinah Munawwarah is blessed. Just as the soil of Blessed Madinah is sacred, likewise the skies above Madinah Munawwarah are also blessed.However, there are certain places within Madinah Munawwarah the “The Enlightened City” that have additional significance. Furthermore, these places have Baarakaat, and by visiting them one attains these blessings.
On the occasion of Mai’raaj, our Beloved Nabee [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] was instructed to perform salaah on Mount Sinai, where Allaah [Subhanahu wa Ta`ala] spoke to Moosa [Alaiehis-Salaam].Thereafter He was taken to Bait Laham [Bethlehem] to perform salaah where Prophet Hazrat Eesaa [Alaiehis-Salaam].was born, and thereafter to Bait ul Muqaddas . The Muhaddaseen explain that Rasool ul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] was taken to these places due to their additional significance.
HISTORICAL Although Madinah Shareef came to prominence with the introduction of Islam, its roots date back hundreds of years. Madinah Shareef is 210 miles [340 km] north of Makkah. At the time of the Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] Madinah was approximately the size of the present masjid and the surrounding white tiled area. Situated on a plain with surrounding hills, the city had abundant water supplies that fed vast date palms and vegetable gardens. The availability of food and water made Madinah an important re- provisioning point for caravans that plied the commercial routes from the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula along the Red Sea to Syria and Egypt. Its inhabitants sold food to these passing caravans and, over time, became involved in trade.
AERIAL VIEW OF MADINAH
Some Rare Old Images of Madinah Shareef
THE MASJID AL-NABAWI Admiration and Virtues of Beloved Prophet’s Mosque: Come, come, whoever you are, wanderer, worshiper, lover of leaving. This is not a caravan of despair. It doesn’t matter that you’ve broken your vow a thousand times, still come, and yet again, come. Maulaana Hazrat Room[Rumi -Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh]
The holy shrine of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and every nook and cranny of Masjid un Nabee particularly the old portion of the mosque are the most sacred and honorable place to visit. It is the second most revered Masjid in Islaam and the second largest in the world, after Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. When the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] entered Madinah” All of the Muslims desired that he would stay with them. Everyone was hoping that Allaah Kareem’s Beloved Prophet would stop by their house. The Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] would answer politely and kindly, “[This camel] is commanded by Allaah Taa'laa; wherever it stops, that will be my home.” The camel moved on with slackened reins, reaching the site of the present masjid and knelt down. The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] alighted and said, “This is the home” and inquired as to who owned the land. The land contained a few date trees, a resting spot for herds of cattle and was owned by two orphan brothers, Sahl and Suhail. The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] purchased the land, had the trees cleared.
Adjacent to the spot where the camel knelt was the house of Abu Ayyub Ansari [Radhi Allaahu anhu]who hurried to lift the saddle from the camel and took it to his home.
This is the approximate spot where existed the house of Abu Ayyub Ansari [Radhi Allaahu anhu]This is where the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] initially stayed for several months on his migration to Madinah, while Masjid-e-Nabwi and the adjoining rooms for his family was built. The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] gave the Muslims of Madinah the title of Ansar which means Helpers, whereas the Muslims of Quraish and other tribes who had left their homes and emigrated to the oasis he called Muhajirun, meaning Emigrants
He then gave orders that his newly acquired courtyard should be made into a Masjid [mosque] and work began immediately.
The Prophet (Peace be upon Him) himself participated in the construction of this mosque, called it "My Mosque" and led prayers in it for years. The first structure on today's site was a simple one supported by the trunks of standing palm trees. Most of the building was done by bricks made of stones and kneaded clay but in the middle of the northern wall [which faced the original Qibla in Jerusalem] stones were put on either side of the prayer niche. The palms in the courtyard were cut down and their trunks were used as pillars to support the roof of palm branches, but the greater part of the courtyard was left open. It was a rectangular enclosure of 30x35 meters, and accessed through three doors: Bab Rahmah to the south, Bab Jibraaeel to the west and Bab al-Nisa' to the east. At the rear of the masjid, the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] built a shaded area called as-Suffah in which the poor companions would spend the night.
The basic plan of the building has since been adopted in the building of other mosques throughout the world. Hazrat Umar [Radhi Allaahu anhu] narrated that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] said: “One salat offered in my Masjid is superior to one thousand salats offered in other Masjids except Masjid al-Haraam (Makkah al-Mukarramah). [Bukhari Shareef]
The masjid was built twice during the lifetime of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]The first time was shortly after he had made the Hijrah to Madinah in 622 CE, with the size of the masjid being approximately 35 x 30 meters and the height 2.5 meters. It was rebuilt seven years later after the Fath [opening]of Khaibar. The increasing number of Muslims by then necessitated an increase in the area of the mosque to accommodate more worshippers. The Khalifaa’s Hazrat Umar [Radhi Allaahu anhu] and Hazrat Usman[Radhi Allaahu anhu] expanded the mosque in 638 and 650, respectively. Further expansions were undertaken in the early and late parts of the eighth century AD. By this time, the rooms in which the Prophet and his companions Hazrat Abu Bakr [Radhi Allaahu anhu] and Hazrat Umar [Radhi Allaahu anhu] were buried were incorporated into the mosque and a dome had been built over the rooms. The masjid also served as a religious school, and a community center.
A hadees states that Rasool ul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]) said ‘Whoever visits me after I have passed, visits me as if it is during my lifetime’
Hazrat Imaam Ghazali [Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh] writes: “When first you set eyes on Madinah let this come into your mind that this is the city which Allaah [Subhanhu Wa Ta'alaa] had chosen for His Messenger [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and to which he was to flee for safety. This is the city where Allaah Ta’ala revealed to him the obligatory duties of a Muslim. He set forth the Sunnah of his Deen. Here at every step one finds the places where his feet trod. Proceeding forward step lightly in a dignified manner thinking that you are now treading on the soil where surely lie the footprints of Muhammad-ur- Rasoolal- Laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]. Keep in mind the description of his walk and gait as explained in the Hadees. Keep in mind his greatness and his elevated position. He whose name Allaah Ta’ala has connected to His own. Regarding this Imaam Ghazali [Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh] actually referred to the verse of the Qur’aan: O you believers, do not raise your voices above the Prophet’s, do not raise your voice when speaking to him as you do to one another, or your good deeds may be cancelled out without you knowing. Imaam Ghazaali [Rahmatul Laahi ‘Alaieh] continues: Then think about the time when the Sahabaa [Radhi Allaahu anhum] used to be with Rasoolul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] looking at him, listening to him and benefiting from him.
Hazrat Shaeikh-e-Akbar Mo'inuddin ibn Arabi [Radi Allaahu anhu] has stated that, "Those who claim to love and revere the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] should increase their recital of the Durood Shareef in patience and perseverance until, through the mercy of Rasool ul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam], they have the opportunity of witnessing his blessed countenance". The soul is the soil where the faith of Almighty Allaah is to be implanted firmly and faithfully which requires continuous recitation of Durood Shareef to thrive and flourish. We have been told by Sayyidinah Rasool ul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]that Durood Shareef is itself Light and when Light enters the soul every aspiration is achieved and every goal is won. Nothing remains thereafter to worry about.The highest blessing that Islaam has conferred on man is the perception of Tauheed [Oneness] of Allaah Al Kareem in its purest form. This has been furnished to mankind through Sayyidinah Rasool ul laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]the last of the Prophets. It is a fundamental duty of every Muslim man and woman, young and old to entertain the highest respect, regard, love and esteem for the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]and his family
It should be clear that obedience to the Beloved of Allaah Kareem is always to be charged with intense respect love and highest regard for him, for it is through love and esteem that truth can be comprehended and communion with the Creator can be granted It is therefore incumbent on those who love him, to pray to Allaah Ta'aala and His Angels in wishing for him peace according to the Divine Command. The reciter will get countless and matchless benefits in both the Worlds and can claim to be the lover of Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
Those who find this true love pursue neither wealth nor fame; rather, they find peace in the flames of their love and see their beloved's face amid the ashes of their own existence burned away. They are on an uninterrupted journey from the valleys of "self-annihilation in the existence of God" [Allaah Ta'aala] to the heights of "attainment to permanence through permanence of God."
ETIQUETTE OF HAZAARI [The Visiting Of The Beloved] Presenting one's self in the Sacred Court of Rasool ul-Laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] Whoever is blessed with the opportunity of making Ziyaarat of Rasoolul Laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] should have an understanding of the tremendous significance and the wonderful fortune of this Sacred Visit. It is the heartfelt wish of every Muslim that he/she should present himself/herself before the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] at least once in life. Those people are lucky whom Allaah [Subhaanhu Wa Ta'aalaa] has granted the honor of visiting the sanctuary of the Holy Prophet Peace be on you, Oh Prophet, [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and the mercy and blessings of Allaah al Mighty. With regards visiting Madinah and performing the Ziyarah [visiting the grave of] the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] said: “Whoever visits me after my death is like he who had visited me during my life.” [Tabraani] “Whoever performs his Hajj in Makkah, then comes to Madinah with the sole aim of visiting me in my Masjid, for him shall be written [the rewards of] two accepted Hajj.” [Daylami] “When a person stands at my grave reciting blessings on me, I hear it; and whoever calls for blessings on me in any other place, his every need in this world and in the hereafter is fulfilled and on the day of Qiyamat I shall be his witness and intercessor.” O Allaah Kareem! Make us worthy of his intercession in this world and in the hereafter. O Allaah, the Supreme! Shower your choicest abundant auspicious blessings upon our Master our Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and his progeny and upon all his followers until the day of judgment!
NEYAAT-[INTENTION] At the start of the journey, one need to make the following niyyat [intention]: "Oh Allaah Kareem, I start the journey to visit the Holy tomb of Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] Please accept it from me." During this journey, recite Durood Shareef frequently. When the city of Madinah is in sight, show your love for the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] by humbly entering the city, continuously reciting Durood Shareef, the Salawaat and Qasaa-id in his honour. Before visiting Masjid un-Nabawi [the Prophet's Mosque], take the time to settle in at your residence. Take a bath or perform ablutions [wudu], wear nice dress, apply perfume and proceed towards the Prophet's Mosque while uttering Darood Shareef. [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] Recite the Following
بسم الله دخلت و عليه توكلت و نويت سنت الاعتكاف
With the Blessed Name of Allaah Kareem have I entered (into the Masjid) and in Him have I placed my trust, and I have made the intention of the Sunnah of I’itikaaf.
The reward is that however much time one spends in the Masjid, the reward of staying for such duration is written in his Book of Deeds In shaa Allaah!!
There are thousands who currently have been invited to visit Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah these days, thousands who have just left, and thousands on their way, to be able to greet the best of creation, Al-Mustafaa
[Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] from within the confines of the city he brought enlightenment to.
Quraanic Instructions
Allaah Almighty says in the Qur’aan
و لو انهم إذ ظلموا أنفسهم جاءوك فاستغفروا الله واستغفر لهم الرسول لوجدوا الله توابا الرحيما "And when they impose on their lives [sin], they must come to your [the Nabi's] presence, then seek repentance from ALLAAH and the Rasool [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] also asks for their forgiveness. Then, they will indeed find Allaah Al Kareem Most Forgiving and Compassionate." Whenever any troubled person comes to the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam], his/her troubles are transformed into comforts. Here, the helpless are helped and the disgraceful are granted grace and honor. If a sinner comes, he/she returns with arms full of forgiveness and pardon, because Allaah [Subhanhu Wa Ta'alaa] has made the door of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] a means of eternal blessings and benedictions and the closest possible means of acquiring closeness to Allaah al Kareem. Allaah [Subhanhu Wa Ta'alaa] has made His door a great center for forgiveness.
With silent gratitude and flowing tears we gaze at the Gumbad e Khizraa, a Beautiful Dome...which give solace and comfort to billion of lovers around the world.A round shining green gem in a sea of white pearls where Our Dearest Prophet, the Beloved of the Merciful rest,may Allaah Kareem shower his infinite Blessing.... upon him and his Family and Companions, and upon all Prophet''s ...forever and forever...Aameen.
Gumbad e Khazra The most notable feature of the Prophet's Mosque is the green Dome of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] which rises higher amongst the sea of white domes. This is where the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
Bab[Door] al-Baqee' Shareef... An Entrance Door to the August Presence of Beloved Prophet [Peace and Blessings of Allaah be Upon Him] May Allaah Bless us with the opportunity to enter through this door reciting Salutations upon the Best of Creation and Die at this doorstep having our Ieemaan safe and sound... Aameen!!
Enter the mosque through Baab-e-Jibraaiel or Bab-us-Salaam. If that is not possible, one may enter through any other door. Place your right foot first in the entrance, praise Allaah [such as say Allaahu Akbar, Subhan Allaah, Alhamdu Lil laah, etc.), recite Durood and say: "Allaah hummaa aftah li abwabe Rahamti ka" If it is not undesirable (Makrooh) time, offer two rakaat's of naafil Tahiyyat Al-Masjid (greeting of the masjid) preferably in Riaz al-Jannah or otherwise anywhere else in the mosque.
When we enter the Prophet's Mosque from Baab Al-Salaam, (the Gate of Peace), we find ourself in the old building. The insides of the domes are painted very beautifully with geometric decorations and flora. Under the domes, the cylindrical columns, which are reinforced by lead, support stone arches, which in turn support the roof of the building. The two capitals (crowns) of the columns are decorated. The columns are painted a light ivory-cream colour. The walls in this building are decorated with in-laid mosaic tiles and running at a height of one and one-half metres along the south wall, there is a horizontal band, upon which are written verses from the Glorious Qur'an.
Beautiful ceiling in front of Rauzaa e Rasool [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] .
At the heart of the mosque is a small area called ar-Rauzaa an-Nabee (Arabic: الروضة النبوية), which extends from the pulpit and "Hujraah" [chamber,room] of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and pillars of the mosque are the sacred places to have oneself blessed with.
Riyaad [Riyaaz] -ul-Jannah is actually a part of land which was blessed and kissed by the feet of Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]thousands of time. Really, all lover’s of Prophet should feel good over this Sacred piece of land. Almighty Allaah, also love this small area of land and because of this fact, He [Almighty Allaah]has decided to lift it up at the Day of Judgment.
In Arabic, Riaz means Garden and Jannaah means Heaven. Therefore, this part of "Masjid-e-Nabvi" is called the garden of Heaven. It is presently distinguished by a green carpet and is also referred to as Rauzaa. The area from the house of Um mul Mu’mineen Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah (Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa) [now shrine of Prophet][Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] to Musalaa-e-Prophet
Please visit this site to read this soul and love stirring article "SECRET OF PROPHETIC CHAMBER" http://belovedprophetmuhammad.blogspot.com/2012/12/secrets-of-prophetic-chamber.html
Riyaad [Riyaaz] “Rauzaa” Ul Jannah Or Garden Of Paradise Hazrat Abu Hurairah [Radhi Allaahu anhu]narrated that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]said: “Between my house and my pulpit lays a garden from the gardens of Paradise, and my pulpit is upon my fountain [Al-Kausar].” [Bukhari Shareef].All pilgrims attempt to visit and pray in ar-Rauzaa, for there is a tradition that supplications and prayers uttered here are never rejected. Pulpit of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam], "Riyaad [Riyaaz]ul Jannah" [the heaven garden] Scholars have interpreted the above narration as follows: The Garden is parallel to a garden above it in Paradise. Or it is in reality a garden of paradise, which will be returned to paradise in the hereafter. Or it is like the gardens of paradise, because the peace and tranquility which is experienced in it when engaged in the remembrance of Allaah Almighty resembles that of paradise.
The original size Is approximately 22 meters in length and 15 meters in width, part of it is in the chamber of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
The Mubaarak Hujraah
To where the Divine look is directed; Maqam al-Mustafa this is! [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] The burial place of our Beloved Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] is actually the house of Um mul Mu’mineen Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] which was just adjacent to Masjid-e-Nabvi, but now it is inside the mosque. If you come into the mosque through "Bab-e-Baqqi", you will get it in your right hand which is the facing side of Rauzaa-e-Rasool and well known most revered holy golden fence (grill) is fixed there. The biggest circle of the golden grill indicates the exact facing positions of our Beloved Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam].
Here is an enlarged view of the blessed, radiant, honored, illuminated, admired, adored, esteemed, celebrated, revered, respected, eulogized, delightful, angelic, elegant, beloved, cherished, precious, magnificent, marvelous Hujrah Mubaarak where The Beloved Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] rest with his Much-loved Companion’s.
The Beautiful Golden screen [Grill] is the front part of the Rauza Mubaarak, the Sacred Chamber in which the Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] passed away and where he is buried. The viewing holes above are aligned to the faces of the inhabitants of the graves. The largest circle on the left directly faces the noble face of the Holy Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
In front of the sacred tomb of The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), there are three sections of brass screens and all three have holes in them. Look at the picture carefully. If you stand in front of the middle section between the pillars, you'll see a big round hole on your left. This is in front of the face of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu Alaieh Wa Sallam]. Adjacent to it is a door that stays closed. Right after it on the right side is a round hole which is in front of the face of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique. On the right of it, there is another round hole which is in front of the face of Hazrat Umar Farooq.[Radiyal Laahu Anhum]
Here the ardent followers and faithful present their humble Salaam from morning till night….. to thier Beloved Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam].
Salaam
When the Muslims visit the Holy Prophet Muhammad [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] in Madinah Munawwara, they greet him with Salaams at his Rauzaa Standing in front of it and facing it, the visitor says in a respectful and hushed voice: "Assalamu Alaieka, Ayyuhan-Nabiyya wa Rahmatul-laahi wa Barakatuhu - Peace be on you, Oh Prophet, [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] and the mercy and blessings of Allaah Almighty. Assalatu was-salamu alaieka ya Rasool-Allaah. Assalatu was-salamu alaieka ya Nabee-Allaah. Assalatu was-salamu Alaieka yaa Habeeb-Allaah." Now offer the salams that others have asked you to bring, doing so in your own language. Assalamu 'Alaieka Yaa As-Salaatu Was-Salaamu ‘Alaieka Yaa Rasoolal-Laah Assalamu 'Alaieka Yaa Kheerata'llaahi Min Khalqihi Assalamu 'Alaieka Yaa Habeeb'Allaah Assalamu 'Alaieka Yaa Sayyida'l Mursaleen Wa Khaatama'n Nabiyyeen
Salaams on you, O Rasoolul Laah of Allaah Almighty.
Salaams on you, O Allaah Kareem’s choicest one in all his creation.
Salaams on you, O the beloved of Almighty Allaah.
Salaams on you, O the leader of all the Prophets and the last of the Prophets.
Salaams on you and on your family and your companions
and your household and on all the prophets and on all well-known pious people.
I bear witness that you completed your duties as the Last Prophet of Allaah Almighty,
fulfilled your trusts, and sincerely advised your community.
May Allaah Kareem reward you on our behalf better than
the reward that any Messenger received on behalf of his community.
In front of the sacred tomb of The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), there are three sections of brass screens and all three have holes in them. Look at the picture carefully. If you stand in front of the middle section between the pillars, you'll see a big round hole on your left. This is in front of the face of the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu Alaieh Wa Sallam]. Adjacent to it is a door that stays closed. Right after it on the right side is a round hole which is in front of the face of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique [Radiyal Laah Anhu]. On the right of it, there is another round hole which is in front of the face of Hazrat Umar Farooq.[Radiyal Laah Anhu] Offer Salaam &Greetings of other
Now offer Salaam of relatives or friends in your own language Salaam on Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique. [Radiyal Laah Anhu] Then move a little to the right and stand before the grave of Hazrat Abu Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with him). Greet him and supplicate to bestow His mercy and forgiveness on him. Salaam on Hazrat Umar Farooq [Radiyal Laah Anhu] Again move a little to the right before the grave of Hazrat Umar ( may Allaah be pleased with him), and greet him and make supplication for him. Departure from Madinah. When you have to leave Madinah, offer your Salaam again to the Prophet (peace be upon him), cry at this separation, supplicate to Allaah Kareem] and leave with the earnest desire to come back.
Hazrat Shaiekh-e-Akbar Mo'inuddin ibn Arabi [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] has stated that, "Those who claim to love and revere the Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] should increase their recital of the Durood Shareef in patience and perseverance until, through the mercy of Rasoolullah ([Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] , they have the opportunity of witnessing his blessed countenance".
I have not seen anything more beautiful than the Messenger[Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] of Almighty Allaah It was as if the sun was shining in his face. When he laughed, it reflected from the wall. His laughter was a smile….his companions smiled rather than laughed in his presence out of respect for him and to imitate him. When he was happy he looked downwards. Generally his laughter consisted of a smile and he showed his teeth which were as white as hailstones. I did not see anyone who smiled more than Muhammad-ur- Rasoolal- Laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]. The laugh of Muhammad-ur- Rasoolal- Laah [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]was but a smile. …..Shamaa’il Tirmidhi.
Angel’s Visit
Hazrat Ka'ab [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] narrated, "70000 Angels use to visit the Holy Court every morning and 7000 in evening and they recite Durood Shareef on Nabee [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] One who visited will never visit again and this process will continue till Qiyamat." [Mishkat al-Masabih, Bab al-Karamat] May Allaah Ta’aala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasool [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] . May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Aameen. Oh Allaah Al Kareem, we ask that you continue to bless and protect this Holy place. May you accept our prayers, have mercy on us, and bestow upon us your grace. May Allaah Ta’alaa Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasool [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Aameen. Only if you resolve to act modestly, Nabee, go in this shrine, There where angels go round, and whereat prophets always kiss!
The Holy Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] prayed for about 16 months facing towards Al-Quds in Jerusalem on his arrival in Madinah. If one was to walk away from the ‘Hazrat Um mul Mu’mineen Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] column’, leaving it towards your back, the fifth column will be in line with the door marked as Bab-e-Jibraeel. This fifth column was the approximate praying spot of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]for the above period. It was near to the extreme north boundary of the original mosque. After the change in Qiblah, the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] offered salaat near ‘Hazrat Um mul Mu’mineen Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] column for a short period while facing towards the Ka’baah. Later he started leading salat at the spot where the Mahrab Nabawi is nowadays. In 91 AH, Umar bin Abdul Aziz made a praying niche in the form of a mahrab. Since then it is called Mahrab Nabawi. If you were to stand in the mahrab for offering salat, your place of sajdah will be where Prophet’s [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] feet used to be. The Prophet’s [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] place of sajdah is intentionally covered by the thick wall of the mehrab.
Major pillars of Masjid-e-Nabawi There are Seven Pillars (Ustawanah) in Garden of Paradise. They all are known as pillars of Blessings. In the first row there are four pillars of red stones. Their names are engraved on them. The diagram above is a plan view of the front part of Masjid Nabwi and identifies pillars [ustuwaanah] where a significant event or act occurred . Note that the position of these pillars was the same as in the time of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
Ustuwaanah Hannanah Pillar of Hanana
[The weeping pillar] The Tree Trunk that Yearned for the Prophet[ Peace and blessings be upon him]
This is also called the Ustuwaanah Mukhallaq. This is the most blessed of the pillars for this was the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]’s place of Salat.
Allaah Kareem supported His honorable Prophets with astounding miracles that prove their truthfulness. Our Prophet, peace be upon him, had the most miracles. The number of miracles are in thousand the one mention here is related to the Tree trunk who could not bear to be separated from our Beloved Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] .
When Prophet Muhammads mosque in Al-Madinah was first built, its roof supported by palm tree trunks. The trunks were spread out around the mosque. They had leaves coming out from their tops which protected people from the heat and the rain. Beautiful sunrays light filtered the building from the spaces between the trees and the leaves, illuminating the corners of the sacred mosque. The Prophet used to address the people of Madinah in the mosque. When he gave a speech he would place his blessed hand on one of the tree trunks. One day the Prophet said, “Standing is becoming difficult for me.” So the Prophet’s companions suggested building a Mimbar, a place where the Prophet could sit and address the people. The man who would build this Mimbar [Pulpit] was from the Ansaar, the people who supported the [Prophet peace be upon] him upon his immigration to Al-Madinah.He built the Pulpit [Mimbar]with three steps. On the day the new Mimbar was placed in the mosque, the Prophet ascended its three steps to address the people. As soon as he ascended the steps to give the sermon, such a bitter sound of weeping was heard from the tree that the whole masjid echoed; and those in the masjid started weeping. Then they understood where the sound was coming from: The tree trunk that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] used to lean on when he was giving a speech was moaning and crying, longing for the Prophet.[Peace be upon him]The sounds of crying kept increasing. It started to sound like the sound a camel makes when her young is taken away. Then the Prophet, [peace be upon him], the one with a merciful heart, descended from his Mimbar[Pulpit]. He went to the crying trunk and hugged it as a father would hug his child until the trunk became quiet. This was a great miracle for our Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] who said, “Don’t you wonder at this piece of wood that yearned and cried?” The people came closer to the trunk and heard its soft whimpering and they too began to cry. Then the Prophet said, “Had I not hugged it, it would have continued to cry until the Day of Judgment.” It is narrated that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said to the trunk, “You have a choice. You can be replanted in the place you were originally, where you will return as you were a solid non-feeling tree trunk, or you can be planted in Paradise where you will be watered from its rivers. Your fruits will improve and the pious servants of Allaah Kareem will eat from you.” The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] continued to say that the tree trunk chose to be in Paradise. So the Prophet ordered that it be buried near the mosque.
Mimbar_Pulpit - The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]used to stand on the third step while delivering his sermons. When Abu Bakr [Radhi Allaahu anhu] became Khalifaah, he stood on the second stair and Umar bin Khattab [Radhi Allaahu anhu]stood on the first. Khalifaah Hazrat Usmaan bin Affan did as Umar [Radhi Allaahu anhu]had done for six years before he returned to the old position of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]. Ameer Muawiyyah [Radhi Allaahu anhu] made a pulpit consisting of nine steps. The leaders started sitting on the seventh rung. The pulpit has since been kept in this form and the Khateeb has been sitting on the seventh step since that time. The pulpit has been replaced on many occasions throughout the centuries. The present pulpit was put up by Sultan Murad in 998 AH.
Ustuwaanah Hazrat Ali [Radhi Allaahu Anhu] Also known as Ustuwaanah Mah’ras or Hars. ‘Hars’ means to watch or protect. This used to be the place where some of the Sahaaba [Radhi Allaahu anhu] used to sit when keeping watch or acting as gatekeepers. Hazrat Ali [Radhi Allaahu anhu] used to be the one who mostly acted as such, for which it is often called Ustuwaanah Ali [Radhi Allaahu anhu] When the Prophet [Radhi Allaahu anhu] entered the masjid from the door of Hazrat Aisha’s [Radhi Allaahu anha] room, he passed this spot Pillar of Hars\Guard
Um mul Mu’mineen Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah [Radiyal Allaahu Ta’aalaa ‘Anhaa] The Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]used to say his prayers here and afterwards moved to the place at Ustuwaanah Hannanah. It is also called the Ustuwaanah Qu'raah. The reason for this is that Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah [Radhi Allaahu Anha] reports that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]said: "In this masjid is one such spot that if people knew the true blessed nature thereof, they would flock towards it in such in a manner to pray there they would have to cast such lots [ Qu'raah]." People asked her to point out the exact spot which she refused to do. Later on, at the persistence of Abdullah bin Zubair [Radhi Allaahu anhu] she pointed to this spot. Hence it is called Ustuwaanah Hazrat Aa‘ishah Siddeeqah, [Radhi Allaahu anha] because the Hadees is reported by her and the exact spot was shown by her. It is a fact that Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar [Radhi Allaahu anhu] very often used to pray here
Ustuwaanah Sareer
'Sareer' means sleeping place. It is reported that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]used to make i'tikaaf here also, and used to sleep here while in i'tikaaf. A platform of wood used to be put here for him to sleep on. Ustuwaanah Sareer 'Sareer' means sleeping place. It is reported that the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]used to make i'tikaaf here also, and used to sleep here while in i'tikaaf. A platform of wood used to be put here for him to sleep on.
Ustuwaanah Taubaah
Also known as Ustuwaanah Abu Lubabah. Abu Lubabah [Radhi Allaahu anhu] was one of the famous Sahaaba. This is where Hazrat Abu Lubaabah [Radhi Allaahu anhu] tied himself in atonement for his crime.
He thereupon came to the masjid and at this spot where a date-tree used to stand, he bound himself to the trunk saying: “As long as my repentance is not accepted by Allaah, I shall not untie myself from here. And the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]himself must undo my bonds.” When the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]heard this he said: “If he had come to me I would have begged forgiveness on his behalf. Now he had acted on his own initiative, I cannot untie him until his repentance has been accepted.” For many days he remained tied there, except for Salat and the call of nature. At such times his wife and daughter used to untie him and then again tied him to the tree. He remained without food and drink as a result of which his sight and hearing were affected. Then after a few days one morning while the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] was in tahajjud prayer he received the good news that his taubaah [repentence]had been accepted. The Sahaba [Radhi Allaahu anhu] conveyed the news to him, and wanted to untie him but he refused, saying: “As long as the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] does not untie me with his blessed hands, I shall not allow anyone else to do so.” When the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] entered for Fajr Salaat he untied him.
Ustuwaanah Wufood
‘Wufood’ means delegations. Whenever deputations arrived to meet the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam] on behalf of their tribes, they were seated here and here he used to meet them, conversed with them and taught them Islaam.
Ustuwaanah Tahajjud MEHRAB -E- TAHAJJUD
Just adjacent to the back wall of Prophet's shrine, you will see a small platform it is known as "Mehrab-e-Tahajjud", where Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]used to offer Tahajjud Prayer (midnight optional prayer). It is reported that this was the spot where late at night a carpet was spread for the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]to perform prayer, after all the people had left
Ustuwaanah Jibraeel Pillar of Jibraeel [Alaiehis Salaam]
This was the usual place where Jibraeel used to enter to visit the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]. Whenever he would come with Quraanic revelation in the garb of the companion Dahih Kalbi [Allaah Kareem Bless him], he used to sit here.Today it cannot be seen as it lies inside the sacred chamber of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
The Ashab us-Suffah were companions of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]who, along with the performance of religious duties, were mostly tradesmen or farmers. Some had, however, dedicated their lives exclusively for prayer and spiritual discipline in the close company of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
The precise number of the Ashab us-Suffah is not known, but it is estimated that the suffah could hold up to three hundred people at any one time, and that roughly seventy people made up its’ permanent residents. The initial inhabitants of the suffah were members who had migrated from Makkah and were without any accommodation. Some of the companions who at one time were members of the Ashab us-Suffah were:
Hazrat Abu Hurairaah [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Abu Dhar al-Ghifari [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Ka’ab ibn Maalik [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Salman al-Farsi [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Hanzalah bin Abi Amr [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Huzaifah bin Yaman [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ood [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Suhaib bin Sanan Roomi [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
Hazrat Bilaal bin Ribah [Radhi Allaahu anhu].
- The Ashab us-Suffah passed their lives in the service of the Prophet [Sallal Laahu ‘Alaiehi Wa Sallam]
In the morning they would listen to his words of wisdom and at night, after sleeping for a while, they would spend the rest of the time in prayer.
“Ya Khudaa Jism Mei Jab Tak Yeh Meri Jaan Rahay
Tujh Pay Sadqay Tere Mahboob Pay Qurbaan Rahay
Kuch Rahay Ya Na Rahay Par Yeh Dua Hai K Ameer
Nizaa Ke Waqt Salaamat Mera Imaan Rahay”
اللهم صلي وسلم علي سيدنا محمد ھم مدینے سے اللہ کیوں آگۓ قلب حیراں کی تسکیں وھیں رہ گی دل وھیں رہ گیا ، جاں وھیں رہ گی ، خم اسی در پہ اپنی جبیں رہ گی یاد آتے ھیں ھم کو وہ شام و سحر وہ سکون دلِ ِوجاں و روح نظر یہ انیہں کا کرم ھے انھی کی عطا ۔ ایک کیفیت دل نشین رہ گی اللہ اللہ وھاں کا درود و سلام ، اللہ اللہ وھاں کا سجود و قیام اللہ اللہ وھاں کا وہ کیف و دوام ،وہ صلواۃ ِ سکوں آفریں رہ گی جس جگہ سجدہ ریزی کی لذت ملی ، جس جگہ ھر قدم انکی رحمت ملی جس جگہ نور رھتا ھے شام وسحر ، وہ فللک رہ گیا وہ زمیں وہ گی پڑ ھ کے نصر من اللہ فتح قریب ، جب ھوۓ ھم رواں سوۓ کوۓ حبیب برکتیں رحمتیں ساتھہ چلنے لگیں ، بے بسی زندگی کی یہئں رہ گی زندگانی وھیں کاش ھوتی بسر ، کاش آتے نہ بہزاد ھم لوٹ کر اور پوری ھوئ ھر تمنا مگر۔یہ تمناۓ قلب ِ حزیں رہ گی Beautiful Naat Shareef written by Late Behzad Lakhnavi
************************************************************ Hazrat Jibraeel [Alaiehis Salam] once came to Prophet Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسلم and said
"Allaah Almighty has given me the knowledge to count every leaf on earth, every fish in the sea, every star in the sky and every particle of sand on earth, but there's only one thing I cant count.
Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسلم asked "What is it?", Hazrat Jibraeel [ Alaiehis Salaam]
replied,
"When one of Your Ummati [Follower] recites Durood or Salaams to You صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسلم , the blessings Allaah Almighty showers upon him become impossible for me to count." Sub haan Allaah !!!
Saiyyidina Abu Dardah
[Radial Laahu Ta'ala Anhu] reported: the Holy Prophet صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسلم said,
"Whoever recites durood on Me in the morning ten times and in the evening ten times, for him shall be My intercession on the day of Qiyamah."
"By Him in whose Hands My life is, none of you will have faith till he loves Me more than his father and children." -- Prophet Muhammad [صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسل ],