🕋 Rank: Second holiest mosque in Islam (after Masjid al-Haram, Makkah)

📖 Introduction

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, commonly known as The Prophet’s Mosque, holds a unique and sacred place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. Built by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself in the city of Madinah, this mosque is not only a place of prayer but a symbol of Islam’s unity, humility, and spiritual power. It is the final resting place of the Prophet ﷺ, making it one of the most visited and honored religious sites in the world.

🏗️ Historical Background

After migrating from Makkah to Yathrib (later named Madinah), Prophet Muhammad ﷺ constructed Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in 1 AH (622 CE). The land was purchased from orphans of Banu Najjar and the Prophet ﷺ personally participated in laying the foundation, carrying bricks and working alongside his companions.

🧱 Original Structure:

• Dimensions: Around 35 by 30 meters

• Materials: Palm trunks for pillars, palm leaves for roof, and mud bricks for walls

• Function: Place of worship, court, community center, shelter for the poor (Ahl al-Suffah), and seat of the Prophet’s leadership

🕌 Significant Historical Expansions

1. Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA)

   • Expanded the mosque due to growing Muslim population.

2. Caliph Uthman ibn Affan (RA)

   • Rebuilt it with stronger materials and a larger structure.

3. Umayyad and Abbasid Periods

   • Minarets, domes, and more artistic features were added.

4. Ottoman Empire (16th century onwards)

   • Suleiman the Magnificent and others contributed major expansions and decorations, including intricate tilework and new domes.

5. Saudi Era (20th–21st centuries)

   • Massive modern expansions, air conditioning, umbrella-shaded courtyards, and technology to accommodate over a million worshippers.

💚 The Sacred Chamber & Green Dome

• Rawdah ash-Sharifah: The area between the Prophet’s ﷺ home and his pulpit is considered a garden from Paradise.

• Tomb of the Prophet ﷺ: Located within the mosque, along with Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA).

• The Green Dome, built during the Mamluk era and modified later, has become a defining symbol of Madinah.

📚 Functions of the Mosque (Then and Now)

• Place of prayer and reflection

• Center of Islamic learning and education

• Meeting hall for state affairs in early Islam

• Spiritual center for Muslims performing Hajj and Umrah

🤲 Virtues and Hadiths

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“One prayer in my mosque is better than a thousand prayers anywhere else except for Al-Masjid Al-Haram.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

“What lies between my house and my pulpit is a garden from the gardens of Paradise.”
(Sahih Muslim)

🛕 Modern Features

• Automated doors and escalators

• Movable umbrellas that provide shade in the courtyard

• Separate prayer spaces for women

• Qur’an exhibition halls and libraries

• Green carpets aligned with Qibla for prayer ease

🧕 Etiquette for Visitors

• Dress modestly and respectfully

• Maintain silence and reverence, especially in the Rawdah

• Avoid pushing or crowding

• Make sincere du’a and offer Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ

🌍 Legacy of Light

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is more than a mosque; it is the spiritual heart of Madinah, a place that witnessed the life, teachings, and legacy of the Prophet ﷺ. Millions of Muslims flock to this blessed site every year, drawn not only by its beauty but by the deep serenity it offers.

🌟 Conclusion

Visiting Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is a dream for every Muslim. It connects believers to the Prophet’s ﷺ life, teachings, and final resting place. Through centuries of history and expansion, the mosque remains a beacon of faith, mercy, and unity.