JOURNEY OF FAITH: MADINAH TOURS (HAJJ 2017)

ABOUT MADINAH

Madinah, officially known as Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah (The Enlightened City) is the second holiest city in Islam and the capital of the Madinah Province in Western Saudi Arabia. Known as the "City of the Prophet", it was a destination of the Prophet Muhammad's migration (Hijrah) in 622 CE and served as the first capital of the Islamic state. Madinah was known as Yathrib in the pre-Islamic times. 

Yathrib bin Qayina or Yathrib bin Qaniah is historically recognised as the founding figure and first settler of the oasis that became Madinah. He was a descendant of Noah through his son Shem or Sam. 

Prophet Muhammad s.a.w renamed the city Madinah or Taybah upon his migration in 622 CE. 

Madinah during Umrah in 2015

MASJID NABAWI

Kindly refer to : Zulheimymaamor.blogspot : Journey of Faith - Madinah & Prophet Mosque

PROPHET'S MARKET

The original market established by Prophet Muhammad in Madinah is historically known as Souq al-Manakhah (or Souq al-Nabi). Established over 1,400 years ago, it was designed as a revolutionary tax-free and accessible public space to break contemporary monopolies and ensure ethical trade.

While the original Souq al-Manakhah is no longer a functioning market in its ancient form, its historical site is marked and located west of the Prophet's Mosque. Today, several traditional and modern markets carry on the city's heritage near the The Prophet's Mosque.

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". 

Masjid Quba during 2015 Umrah

Masjid Quba during Hajj 2017

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.

Jabal Uhud during Umrah 2012

Jabal Uhud during Umrah 2015.

Jabal Uhud during Hajj 2017

1. The Battle of Uhud (23 March 625 CE)

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

• A pivotal conflict fought between Muslim community of Medina and the Quraysh of Mecca. 
• Muslims: Approximately 700 men (after 300 withdrew with Abdullah ibn Ubay).
• Quraysh: around 3,000 men, including 200 cavalry led by Khalid ibn Walid. 
• 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.
• The Outcome: The Prophet was wounded, and several high-ranking companion were martyred, including the Prophet's uncle Hamza ibn Abd Muttalib. 

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.

The Martyrs' Cemetery at Mount Uhud in 2012 (Umrah) and 2017 (Hajj)

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.

AL-BADAR AT MADINAH

Al-Badar Madinah, a historic region about 130 km to 150 km southwest of Madinah.It is globally significant as the site of the Battle of Badar (624 CE), first major battle in Islamic history. 

Key Landmarks:

1. Masjid Al-Arysh: built on the site where Prophet Muhammad s.a.w prayed during the battle. 
2. Cemetey of the Martyrs: the resting place of the 14 companions (sahaba) who were martyred in the battle. 
3. Jabal Malaikat (Mount of Angels) : the hill where it is believed angels descended to assist the Muslim army. 

KURMA FARM IN MADINAH

In Madinah, "kurma" (date) farms offer a blend of agricultural tourism, shopping, and historical significance. Many of these locations function as both active orchards and retail hubs where you can sample fresh varieties like Ajwa, Safawi, and Sukkari before purchasing. 

Many farms, such as Alia Al-Madinah Farms and Taiba Brothers Farms, allow you to buy directly from the producer, ensuring freshness and competitive pricing compared to city markets.

Kurma Farms at Madinah during Umrah 2012

Kurma Farms at Madinah during Umrah 2015

Kurma Farm at Madinah during Hajj 2017

OTHER HISTORIC MOSQUE IN MADINAH

1. Masjid Al-Qiblatayn: The historic site where the direction of prayer (Qibla) was change during a congregational prayer. While the original structure once held two mihrabs facing both direction, only the one facing Mekkah is now used for prayer. 
2. The Seven Mosque : or Masjid Tujuh, a group of small mosques located at the site of the Battle of the Trench. However as today, only 6 mosques left such as Masjid Al-Fath, Masjid Salman Al-Farisi, Masjid Abu Bakr, Masjid Umar, Masjid Ali and Masjid Fatimah. 
3. Masjid Al-Jumuah: the site where the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w led the first Friday prayer in Madinah after the Hijrah. 
4. Masjid Zulhulaifah: also known as "Bir Ali Mosque" and "Masjid Ash-Shajarah (Mosque of the Tree), the essential Miqat Station Pilgrims departing from Madinah for Hajj or Umrah.
5. Ghamamah Mosque: also known as the "Mosque of the Clouds", is a prominent historical landmark located just southwest of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. It marks the site where the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w led important congregational prayers during the final years of his life. 

The site for the Battle of the Trench (Wikipedia)

RAWAAE AL-ANWAR RESTAURANT, MADINAH

During my Hajj in 2017, Rawaae  Al-Anwar Restaurant was a popular Pakistani and India dining spot located in Madinah. Situated on Abu Ubaidah bin Al Jarrah Street, it was a frequent stop for pilgrims seeking affordable, authentic South Asian flavors. It specialised in Pakistani and Indian dishes, known for being a "Pak/Indian" eatery. 

Pakistani Cuisine

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