JOURNEY OF FAITH: MADINAH TOURS (HAJJ 2017)

MASJID QUBA

In 2017, the Masjid Quba (Quba Mosque) remained one of the most significant spiritual landmarks for the roughly 2 million pilgrims who traveled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj. While the core Hajj rituals take place in Makkah, the "Ziyarat" (visitation) to Madinah—and specifically Masjid Quba—is a deeply cherished tradition for almost every pilgrim.

It was established by Prophet Muhammad s.a.w in 622 CE during the Hijrah (migration) from Mekkah to Madinah. The Prophet himself participated in its construction, laying the first stone.

There is a hadiths which states that performing Wudu' (ablution) at home (or one's hotel) and then offering two Rak'aat of prayer in Masjid Quba earns the rewards of a complete Umrah. 

It is believed to be the mosque referred to in Surah At-Tawbah (9:108) as the mosque "founded on piety from the first day". 

JABAL UHUD

Jabal Uhud (Mount Uhud) is perhaps the most significant historical site in Madinah after the Prophet's Mosque. Located about 5 km north of the city center, it is a massive volcanic mountain range that stretches nearly 7 km and stands over 1,000 meters high.

For pilgrims, a visit to Uhud is not just sightseeing; it is a profound lesson in history, discipline, and sacrifice.

1. The Battle of Uhud (625 CE)

Uhud is the site of the second major battle in Islamic history.

• The Strategy: Prophet Muhammad positioned 50 archers on a small hill (now known as Jabal al-Rumah or Archers' Hill) to protect the rear of the Muslim army.
• The Turning Point: Believing the battle was won, most archers left their posts to collect war spoils, despite the Prophet’s strict orders to stay. This allowed the Meccan cavalry (led by Khalid ibn al-Walid at the time) to circle the mountain and launch a devastating surprise attack.
• The Lesson: For pilgrims, Uhud serves as a permanent reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the dangers of prioritizing worldly gains over spiritual instructions.

2. Key Sites to Visit at Uhud

When you visit the area today, there are three primary landmarks to focus on:

Jabal al-Rumah (Archers' Hill)

This is the small, rocky mound where the archers were stationed.

• Activity: Most pilgrims climb this hill. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the entire battlefield and can visualize how the events unfolded.
• Perspective: Standing here helps you understand the strategic geography of the valley.

The Martyrs' Cemetery (Shuhada Uhud)

At the base of the mountain lies a gated cemetery containing the graves of 70 companions who were martyred in the battle.

• Notable Grave: The most prominent is that of Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib, the Prophet’s uncle, known as Sayyid al-Shuhada (the Master of Martyrs).
• Protocol: Pilgrims usually stand by the fence to offer Salam (greetings) and prayers for the deceased.

Sayyid al-Shuhada Mosque

A beautiful, large mosque was recently expanded and completed near the site (around 2017). It can accommodate thousands of worshippers and provides a cool, serene place for pilgrims to pray after exploring the battlefield.

3. The Prophet’s Love for Uhud

Despite the tragedy that occurred there, the Prophet Muhammad expressed a deep, mystical affection for the mountain. He famously stated:

"Uhud is a mountain which loves us and which we love." > — (Sahih Bukhari)

This sentiment transforms the mountain from a "site of defeat" into a "site of love and resilience" for the Muslim community.

In 2017,Madinah (Medina), the second-holiest city in Islam, experienced significant developments in tourism infrastructure and local events. As the capital of the Medina Province in Saudi Arabia, it remained a primary destination for millions of pilgrims.

Compiled by:

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Hajj 2017 Pilgrim

30/12/2025: 9.30 p.m