February 10, 2008
Details of various curtains that once graced the Hujrah, the Honoured Room of the most honoured of creation, Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Almutawaj belkarama
The one crowned with miracles
Almuzallal belghamama
The one shaded by clouds
Allah’s peace and blessings be upon the Prophet and his family.
This was the gold medallion shaped embroidered motif that used to cover the Muwajaha, exquisite!
Qur’anic verses and Salawaat adorn one of the curtains that used to surround the Abode of our Blessed Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
The first cover sent from Istanbul to Madinah, woven during the reign of Sultan Ahmad 1. Old covers would be sent back to Istanbul by the current Amir at the time and taken to the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari RadhiAllahu anhu where they would be displayed for some time before being sent to the Apartments of the Holy Mantle in the Topkapi Palace Museum.
Some narrations say it was the mother of Haroon Rashid, the Abbasid Caliph (786-809 CE) who donated the first curtain for the Hujrah, others say it was the wife. And Allah the Almighty knows best.
After that it was the Prime Minister of Egypt who ordered a white curtain decorated and embellished with Surah Yasin. Two years later the Caliph sent violet curtains with his name being the main motif! The next one recorded was black, which accompanied his mother when she came for Hajj, and then another sent to be placed over these two, forming three layers.
Thereafter, every six years a Kiswa made of white silk embroidered with gold and silver from Egypt was provided.
Kiswa al-Saadat, the Curtain of Bliss
When the Ottomans were in control they established the green curtain with red and gold calligraphy features as above.
Detail of the above,bearing inscriptions and greetings of peace and praise for The Holy Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
These designs are stunning, not only for their artisitic merit, which is superlative, but for the fact that they all once veiled our Blessed Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam! Allahu Akbar!
All of these examples are in the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul, and if unable to visit Turkey then vicariously travel to see these Mubarak relics in the magnificent volume, The Sacred Trusts.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
July 31, 2007
Celebrate the praises of your Lord before the rising and the setting of the sun; proclaim His praise in the night and at the end of every prayer.
(50: 39-40)
"Celebrating His Subhanahu wa Ta’ala praises" from the 14th floor of a hotel overlooking Masjid Nabawi and Jannatul Baqi just before Maghrib with a family visiting from the UK. Alhumdulillah. The section of the courtyard has just been re opened after months of being fenced off. Now they have begun work on the two sections either side.
A closer view with a section of the rooftop prayer area for men during the peak times. Masjid Quba was easily visible, but compressing the photo it becomes difficult to see. Just to the left of the building on the right is a crane in the far distance….the four minarets of Masjid Quba are to the left of this crane.
Narrated Abu Dhar RadhiAllahu anhu: The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam asked me at sunset, "Do you know where the sun goes at the time of sunset?" I replied, "Allah and His Apostle know better." He said, "It goes, travels till it prostrates itself underneath the Throne and takes the permission to rise again, and it is permitted and then a time will come when it will be about to prostrate itself but its prostration will not be accepted, and it will ask permission to go on its course but it will not be permitted, but it will be ordered to return whence it has come and so it will rise in the west. And that is the interpretation of the Statement of Allah:
The sun too, runs its determined course laid down for it by the Almighty, the All-Knowing. (36.38) (Bukhari)
After Maghrib Salat…the small domes decorate the northern side of Haram.
Sisters in the courtyard where a gentle breeze brings relief from the intense heat of the day….the sun already on its way to the Throne, SubhanAllah!
All the architectural features take on so many different qualities according to the time of the day or night.
A celebration of the Muhabbat connecting the Ummah….COOKIES…home made, and carried all the way from the UK by the current neighbours of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu laihi wasallam….so Yummy! JazakumuLlahu khairan Katheeran!
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
June 26, 2007
Whoever laid but a glance upon the Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was awestruck; whoever looked upon him repeatedly was drowned in love and said in praise: ‘I have neither seen anything so awesome before nor will I see the like again.’
Sayyidna Ali RadhiAllahu anhu
And so it is whenever we approach our Beloved’s Dome of Peace and Felicity, SubhanAllah. Regardless of what may be happening nearby; the heart is arrested and transported upon wave after wave, drowned in a love so awesome that all else fades into oblivion and numbness. After my longer than intended sojourn, I invite your heart to be transported through images from early this morning.
The south-east corner of Jannatul Baqi to the left. The large concrete facade of the building on the right is of a hotel that has recently been totally gutted, maybe to be demolished.
The eastern extension work progresses at a rapid pace. The wall of Jannatul Baqi in the background. You can compare the rate of development from two previous posts.
The Mubarak dust swirls around the entire Haram area with all the extensive construction, but still the workers continue with their diligent polishing! What a powerful metaphor for our continual polishing of the heart regardless of the mess and confusion around us, SubhanAllah!
The building on the left is the Oberoi. Incredible how close the excavation is to its foundations!
The northern courtyard where the massive work for laying the foundations for the installation of umbrellas continues. One small section has been completed, while new areas have been fenced off with the marble being lifted.
The precision of setting the marble slabs requires the expert attention of surveyors, one working in the shade of the umbrella.
A zoom on the initial slabs, setting the intricate pattern, each one meticulously and repeatedly checked for accuracy. Another metaphor for how we as individuals are placed and function within the Ummah!
Don’t seek in both worlds any place for the poor,
The Gate of Muhammad is there for the poor;
The zephyr that passes by Ahmad’s abode,
It raises and brings healing dust for the poor…
This rebel is naked, no shelter, no veil,
The kindness of Ahmad: a cloak for the poor!
Milad Ahmad, from And Muhammad is his Messenger, Annemarie Schimmel.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
June 10, 2007
Is it not time for the believers to humble their hearts to the remembrance of Allah and the Truth that has been revealed
(57:16)
One year ago I began this humble collection with this Ayat. (Only a different translation) The world, the external, changes in so many ways in one year, but the message of our Holy Book and Our Beloved Master of Madinatul-Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam will forever remain the same.
The phrase khushu’-ul-qalb according to Ibn Katheer means for “the heart to soften; to be receptive to advice; to be obedient; to submit.” While in the Qur’anic context of the above Ayat, according to Maulana Mufti Muhammad Shafi’ in his Tafseer Ma’ariful Qur’an it implies a willingness to yield to the Divine injunctions, or the Divine imperatives and prohibitions without allowing any laxity in following them [Ruh-ul-Ma’ani] Volume 8 page 323.
“This verse admonishes the believers. Sayyidna Abdullah ibn Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu reports that some of the believers were found to be lacking in firmness and laziness was found in their practices. So this verse was revealed. The Muslims are cautioned that they should prepare themselves to turn to Allah Ta’ala totally and completely, and act upon the teachings of their religion. All actions revolve around khushu’-ul-qalb. Sayyidna Shaddad ibn Aws narrates that the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “The first thing that will be taken away from the people will be their humility or humbleness.”
May our links to Allah Ta’ala and His Habib SallAllahu alahi wasallam be constantly on the increase and strengthened by all that is around us as reminders, with our hearts softened by all we perceive, near and far, remembrance perpetually in a humbled heart. May we truly take heed.
It is He who raised a messenger, among the people who had no Scripture, to recite His revelations to them, to make then grow spiritually and teach them the Scripture and wisdom. (62:2)
Two young Hifz students were visiting this Radiant City this past week and while here they did the these drawings reflecting their impressions of Masjid Nabawi. I have taken the liberty to use an emboss filter on them as the pencil lines were too delicate to scan successfully. JazakumuLlahu khairan Yahya and Hamza for your contribution to this "anniversary" edition of the blog. May Allah Ta’ala continue to bless your lives with His Book in your hearts and assist you in fulfilling your desire to devote to becoming Alims. May you both be blessed with khushu’-ul-qalb. Ameen.
And the now….
Views looking south towards Qiblah from the Movenpick hotel just before Maghrib. The tent in the middle is the Zam Zam filling area.
The majority of this western courtyard is under construction in preparation for the installation of the umbrellas.
This buidling extends the entire length of the western perimeter of the courtyard.
The accessible walkways are extremely limited with all the work in progress. The green spire adjacent to the Dome of Felicity awakens the longing from wherever we are for Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Do not ask me, friend: "Where is Muhammad?"
Hidden in my heart, there is Muhammad!
Is there need to wander to Medina?
Here and there, apparent is Muhammad.
In my heart and eyes resides forever
From the day of the Covenant, Muhammad….
(Milad Ahmad)
I have decided to take a short sojourn. Insha’Allah I will return after a week or so. You all remain in my Du’a, Insha’Allah, this humble speck is in need of your Du’a. I ask your forgiveness for my weaknesses and shortcomings over the past year. May Allah Ta’ala give us all Hidayah and Taufiq as we journey along the Siratul-Mustaqeem, Ameen.
I leave you with the opportunity to visit this Mubarak City over and over in my absence…..click on English, then ‘sites in 3D’ then Mosques, then Medine. Alhumdulillah! SubhanAllah! Allahu Akbar!
Marhaba sayyid-i makki-yi madini’l’arabi…..
Welcome, O Meccan, Medinan, Arab lord-
May my heart and soul be sacrificed for you – what wonderful surnames you have!
Open the eye of mercy, cast a glance at me,
O you with the epithets Quraishi, Hashimi, and Muttalibi….
(Qudsi Mashhadi)
Both verses from here.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
May 23, 2007
My Minbar is on my pool.
My Minbar is a tura’a (various translations describe tura’a as a door, a step and other scholars have said it means a garden in a raised platform) of Jannah.
The feet of my Minbar will be steps of a ladder for Jannah.
The corners of my Minbar are firmly planted in Jannah.
Such blessed descriptions from our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam of his Minbar. Whatever the external appearance the Minbar has, or ever will have, the fact remains that our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam addressed the stellar Sahabah RadhiAllahu with his weekly Khutab from the Mubarak ground where this lavish Ottoman structure now stands.
As mentioned in previous posts, Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam initially delivered the Khutbah leaning on a palm tree trunk which was positioned near the original Mihrab. During the eighth year after hijrah, when the number of Sahabah had greatly increased, and it was difficult for the assembled crowd to see and hear the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, it was suggested that a new raised Minbar be constructed.
Narrated Jabir RadhiAllahu anhu: “A woman said, "O Allah’s Apostle! Shall I get something constructed for you to sit on as I have a slave who is a carpenter?" He replied, "Yes, if you like." So she had that pulpit constructed.”
It is recorded that the wood for this simple three stepped edifice was from Al-Ghaba, a forested area approximately 10 kilometers north west of Masjid Nabawi. This land was owned by Az-Zabair ibn Al-‘Alawwam and his wife Asma RadhiAllahu anhum, they purchased it for one hundred and seventy thousand dirham. They established the first abattoir for the residents of this Enlightened City. When he died it was sold for one million six hundred thousand dirham! Ruins of a pond that existed at the time still exist till now.
The following two photos are from Al-Ghaba, also known as the Wild Park, is a popular picnic location for the locals. Credit to sister Anisah for these wonderful photos.
Sahl bin Sa’d was asked about the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam pulpit as to what thing it was made of? Sahl replied: "None remains alive amongst the people, who know about it better than I. It was made of tamarisk wood of the forest. So and so, the slave of so and so prepared it for Allah’s Apostle. When it was constructed and placed in the Masjid, Allah’s Apostle stood on it facing the Qibla and said ‘Allahu Akbar’, and the people stood behind him and led the people in prayer. He recited and bowed and the people bowed behind him. Then he raised his head and stepped back, got down and prostrated on the ground and then he again ascended the pulpit, recited, bowed, raised his head and stepped back, got down and prostrate on the ground. So, this is what I know about the pulpit."
Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to sit on the third step, placing his Mubarak feet on the second step. Later, Abu Bakr As-Siddiq RadhiAllahu anhu, would sit on the second step, placing his feet on the first step, and then ‘Umar ibn Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu would sit on the first step, placing his feet on the ground. For six years Caliph Uthman RadhiAllahu anhu followed the habit of ‘Umar RadhiAllahu anhu, but then began to deliver the Khutbah from the third rung as did Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Numerous renovations have taken place over the centuries.
When Mu’awiyah RadhiAllahu anhu was Amir, he extended the height of the Minbar to that of nine rungs, with the Khateeb sitting on the seventh rung.
It has been narrated that during this time the original three wooded steps were showing signs of deterioration. Wooden structures do not survive the intense weather conditions here, or the presence of white ants who favour all things wooden. So Mu’awiyah RadhiAllahu anhu decided to replace these three rings from the time of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. When the attempt to remove these steps began, the sky blackened, to the extent that stars appeared in the sky, even though it was day time. People were fearful, wondering what terrible punishment was being sent to them. Mu’awiyah RadhiAllahu anhu ordered the halt of the renovations and decided instead of replacing the three steps to place them as the top three rungs. SubhanAllah! Just as the palm tree trunk had wept and was so saddened, so too were these three steps.
In 654 A.H. the Minbar was burnt during the fire that damaged the Masjid, so in 656 A.H. Al-Muzahar who was the ruler of Yemen at the time sent a Minbar that was used for ten years. The next one was a gift from Egypt, from Al-Zahir Baibarus in the year 666 A.H. This was again replaced in 797 A.H. by Al-Zahir Barquq, and then another sent by Al-Muayid in 820 A.H.
In 886A.H. another fire destroyed the Minbar. This time the people of Madinah constructed a brick replacement, painting it with a coat of white paint. After two years Al-Ashraf Qaitabai sent a more sophisticated marble replacement which remained until the Ottoman Sultan Murad the Third in 998 A.H. sent the current Minbar. The elegant Qaitabai one is now in Masjid Quba, below.
The present Haram Shareef Minbar is made of an expensive marble with gold decorations. A dome sits on marble columns creating an elongated appearance. There are twelve steps, three which are outside the door, with nine inside. The richly ornamented door has the following written above it:
“Sultan Murad bin Saleem sent this to be rewarded on the Day of Judgement. May his kingdom be high forever. The best of cities be under his peaceful control. For the Garden of Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala’s Graces and Honours be bestowed upon him since all people received guidance through him. This pulpit is built with full sincerity to seek guidance and blessing. May much guidance be imparted from the top of this pulpit to thise who seek this guidance. Sa’ad composed these verses and the pulpit was made by Sultan Murad in 997 A.H.”
Ibn Najjar said: “The pulpit will be placed on the Haud Kawthar and it will be reborn just like all other creatures of Allah Ta’ala on the Day of Judgement.” And Ibn Hajar agrees with this explanation, while Khattabi explains this to mean that due to the good deeds enacted near the Minbar it will be honoured with being placed at the Haud Kawthar, SubhanAllah!
On the other hand according to a Hadith, if a person makes a false oath near the Prophet’s Minbar, even if it were about, or as little as a green siwak, then that person will take his place in Jahannam. Audhu BiLlah.
Narrated Aishah, Ummul Mu’minin RadhiAllahu anha: “The Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to setup a pulpit in the mosque for Hassan Radhiallahu anhu who would stand on it and satirize those who spoke against the Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. The Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam would say: The spirit of holiness, Gabriel is with Hassan RadhiAllahu anhu so long as he speaks in defense of the Apostle of Allah.”
On another occasion the beloved Hassan and Hussein RadhiAllahu anhuma, dressed in red shirts, playfully arrived in the Masjid when their blessed grandfather SallAllahu alaihi wasallam when he was on the Minbar. He came down from the Minbar, took them and ascended it with them. He then said: Allah truly said:
Your property and your children are only a test for you. (64.15),
Another narration states: Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam mounted the pulpit and called in a loud voice, "You who have accepted Islam with your tongues but whose hearts have not been reached by faith, do not annoy the Muslims, or revile them, or seek out their faults; for he who seeks out the faults of his brother Muslim will have his faults sought out by Allah and he whose faults are sought out by Allah will be exposed by Him, even though he should be in the interior of his house."
The Prophet led us in prayer and then went up to the pulpit and beckoned with both hands towards the Qiblah of the mosque and then said, "When I started leading you in prayer, I saw the display of Paradise and Hell on the wall of the mosque facing the Qiblah. I never saw good and bad as I have seen today." He repeated the last statement thrice.
Imagine! Any wonder that the sky turned black at the thought of these humble wooden steps to be removed. SubhanAllah, such a sublime heritage we have been blessed with.
SubhanAllah! Such a blessed piece of Jannah! With so much said at this hallowed place from the Mubarak lips of our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam to assist us on the path to Jannah! May we take heed and all meet in Jannah by the Haud Kawthar, Ameen.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
May 15, 2007
Al-Ustawanah, The Columns, The Pillars in the Sacred Garden.
“What is between my house and my minbar is a meadow of the meadows of Jannah, and my minbar is on my pool,” said our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Once again step into the delights of this Divine Meadow.
5. Ustuwanatal-Tawba, Column of Repentance, or the Pillar of Abu Lubabah.
This column is so named as it represents the place where Allah Ta’ala accepted the repentance of Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu.
Our Beloved Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam surrounded the Jewish Tribe of Bani Quraiza on the outskirts of Madinah for twenty five days due to their treachery. After their provisions were exhausted they requested to be given permission to travel safely to Syria. Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam told them that whatever decision Sa’ad ibn Muath RadhiAllahu anhu made as mediator, they should accept that. But the Jews requested that Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu be the one to negotiate with as he had been their ally before Islam, and he had family and property in this area, so they thought he would be kinder to them. The Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, forever displaying the fairest of manners in all dealings agreed to their request, and hence sent Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu to them. The tribe came rushing to him in distress, playing on his emotions. They asked what would become of them if they left the security of their fort, would they be safe. He replied in the affirmative, but while saying so gestured cutting of the throat with his hand, indicating that their head will be cut off. This was in fact the secret the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam made with Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu.
As soon as Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu did this he realized his grave betrayal, saying: “My legs had not moved from their place before I knew that I had betrayed Allah and His Messenger.” He immediately rushed to the Masjid where her bound himself to the pillar, vowing to remain in this condition until his repentance was accepted. Some narrations say he was there for seven days and seven nights, being untied only for ritual purification and prayers. He barely ate during this time and passed out several times. When Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam heard of what he had done he said: “He could have come directly to me and I would have prayed for his forgiveness. Now he has left the whole matter to Allah. He should wait till Allah accepts his repentance directly.”
At dawn on the seventh day, while the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was in Umm Salama RadhiAllahu anha’s house, she saw him smile. When she inquired why he was smiling he informed her that Allah Ta’ala had forgiven Abu Lubabah RadhiAllahu anhu. She asked if she could be the one to convey the happy news, whereupon the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “If you wish.” Umm Salama RadhiAllahu anha walked to the door of her house, being beside the Masjid, and called out to Abu Lubabah: “Receive the good news O Abu Lubabah! Allah has forgiven you!”
The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum present in the Masjid at the time rushed to congratulate and untie him, but he said: “Leave me until the Messenger of Allah, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, comes and unties me with his own hands!”
They left him and he was untied according to his wish when Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam came out for Fajr Salat.
Such drastic measures taken by the Sahabah to rectify a mistake! And now this very column is sought after by many as the auspicious place to make Tawba, SubhanAllah! May Allah Ta’ala save us, and accept our repentance. Ameen.
The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was said to often pray his Nawafil Salat at this pillar, and it was one of the main places he would sit to receive the poor, the weak, the needy, guest and others after Salatul Fajr. They would sit in circle around him listening to his advice, reciting the latest revelations to them and see to their needs. And Allah the Almighty knows best.
6. Ustuwanatul-Sarir, Column of the Bed
This marks the place where a mat made of palm fronds and a leather cushion filled with palm fibre used to be spread for the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam during his Itikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan.
It is narrated that our Blessed Lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anha, could sit at the door of their house washing and combing his Mubarak hair while our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was actually in the Masjid, as the door to their simple quarters was beside this pillar!
The Guard Column on the right and the Delegates Column on the left with the doorway that roughly corresponds to the Mubarak door our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to enter the Masjid from the narrow passageway that separated the houses of Lady Aishah and Lady Fatimah RahdiAllahu anhima.
7. Ustuwanatul-Haras, Column of the Guard.
The position of this column was adjacent to the Mubarak door leading to the humble home of our Blessed Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and our Beloved Lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anha, and it is where some of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum would stand guard. Narrations say that Ali RadhiAllahu anhu was the main guard, along with Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas and Abu Saeed Khudri RadhiAllahu anhum. Once Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam returned weary from battle saying to our Lady Aishah: “I wish a man of virtue should come to guard me tonight.” Soon after he heard the clanging of weapons outside his house, and when he inquired as to who was there, the reply came: “Sa’d, I have come to guard you.” So the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam slept.
Soon after Allah Ta’ala revealed:
And Allah will protect you from people… (5:67),
so Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam informed the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum that they were no longer needed to stand guard.
8. Ustuwanatul-Wufud, Column of the Delegations.
This column stands where Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to receive the numerous delegations that would arrive in Madinah from various tribes to announce their entry into Islam and pledge their allegiance to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, as well as other dignitaries from other lands.
Burzanji Rahmatullah alaihi said: “The bed, the guard and the delegates columns used to be somewhat inside the Sacred Chamber. In 888 A.H., the wall of the Sacred Chamber was rebuilt during the period of Qaitabai, when half of each column was built outside the wall to mark the locations.”
9. Grave Square Column.
This position is said to be one of the Maqamas of Jibreel Alaihis Sallam. This column is on the northwestern corner of Lady Aishah’s house, and since our Noble Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam is in this house which is almost square in shape, they refer to this as the Grave Square Column. This column cannot be seen as it is behind the metallic enclosure.
“O Allah, the leveler of the Plains, the Maker of the Firmament, and the Molder of Hearts into the good and the bad, grant Your noblest blessings, most fruitful favours and most loving kindness to our master Muhammad, Your Servant and Your Messenger, the opener of what was locked and the Sea; of what had gone before, the announcer of truth with truth, and the refuter of the forces of falsehood! He who took upon himself the responsibility of Your order in obedience to You, speedily seeking Your Pleasure, earnestly heeding Your Revelation, keeping Your Promise, carrying out and executing Your Command, so that, by kindling a burning brand for the seeker, his followers gain access through him to the blessings of Allah! Hearts were guided through him after having entered into discord and sin, and he gladdened with evident signs, with enlightening laws and illuminating Islam! And he is Your trustworthy one and safe custodian of Your secret Knowledge, Your witness on the Day of Judgement and Your envoy, a favour for us, and Your Messenger, in truth, a mercy for us! O Allah, widen for him his place in Your Eden and reward him doubly with the goodness of zyour Favour granting him untarnished felicitations from the victory of Your Reward, which is plentiful and fitting, and from Your Lofty Gift!” Dala’il al-Khayrat.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
May 14, 2007
Al-Ustawanah, The Columns, The Pillars in the Sacred Garden.
“What is between my house and my minbar is a meadow of the meadows of Jannah, and my minbar is on my pool,” said our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
SubhanAllah, the heart bursts. Exploding and descending into unimaginable depths of sweetness. Transported to realms heavenly and divine. Transfixed; not only due to the sanctity and sacredness of this chosen Mubarak piece of ground that Allah Ta’ala has blessed as the earthly parallel of Jannah, but this is where His Habib SallAllahu alaihi wasallam worshipped, taught, listened, received revelations from Jibreel Alaihis Sallam, walked, smiled, fasted, distributed booty, united so many in marriage, prayed Janazah over his daughters, his son, his companions, called for Jihad. This is the very place where thousands of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhu walked, sat, listened, worshipped, and where thousands of our illustrious predecessors Rahmatullah alaihum also graced the hallowed ground. And where today, and tomorrow, until Allah Ta’ala deems otherwise, our pious scholars raise their hands, praising, and seeking for the entire Ummah, where individuals from every far-flung corner of the globe humbly present themselves to the Mercy of the Worlds SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, where millions more turn their hearts from wherever they may be. Such Shukr that we have been blessed with the power of projecting our hearts and minds to this place regardless of where our physical body may be, and such Shukr that Allah Ta’ala has blessed us with Angels roaming the entire Universe to convey our Salam and Durood upon His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. SubhanAllah, Alhumdulillah, La ilaha illAllah, Allahu Akbar.
The columns, or pillars in the Sacred Rowdha stand in the exact place where the original palm tree trunks erected by our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and his Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum stood. Constructed under his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam gaze! This image in itself is enough to induce delirium, and a state of ecstasy! With all the expansions and renovations, the distinct positions have not altered. And each of these honoured places has a soul stirring tale to tell.
The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum loved to pray behind these columns, as did billions throughout the centuries and the millions now. Umar Radhiallahu anhu, used to say: “Those who pray have more right to the trunks than those who sit there conversing.” And when he saw a man praying away from them, he pulled him to behind a pillar saying: “pray facing it.” Anas ibn Malik RadhiAllahu anhu said: “I saw the elders among the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum rush to the pillars at Maghrib to pray, until the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam came out.”
These columns are marked with a relief medallion near the top, bearing the specific name inscribed in Arabic with golden letters on a green background. (Discernable in the photo below)
1. Al-Ustuwanatul-Mukhallaqah, also known as the Hannana column, and Column of the Mushaf.
This is the thickset column immediately behind the Mihrab.(detail above) It marks the place where Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to lead Salat after the direction of Qiblah was changed to the Ka’abah. Various narrations are cited as to the name of “the perfumed pillar”. One states that one day our Beloved Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam saw that someone had spat on the trunk, so one of the Sahabah cleaned it and then applied perfume (Khalooq) to the place. Another account is during the time of the caliph, Haroon Rashid, his mother, Al-Khayzuran, when she came for Hajj in 170 A.H. perfumed all the pillars, applying more to this one and Aishah’s Pillar.
This column is also named Hannana because it was the site of the trunk of a palm tree against which the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam used to lean during the Khutbah. When he began using the new Minbar the trunk shook and wept, shaking bitterly as if it was going to burst with agony, until our gentle Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam stepped down from the Minbar and calmed it with his hand. He continued to offer Salat at this trunk until work on extensions began during the time of the caliphate of Uthman RadhiAllahu anhu. Some narrations say that it was then moved to the house of Abu ibn Ka’b, where it remained until it decayed, some say it was buried where it was, others say it was buried under the Minbar, while I have also heard some scholars say that it was buried in Jannatul Baqi. And only Allah the Almighty knows the truth.
Hasan Basri Rahmatullah alaihi used to cry when he described these narrations saying: “O you believers, this piece of wood used to cry for the love of Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. You should display more enthusiasm and love to meet the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam on the Day of Judgement.”
Imam Shafi’ said: “The miracles given to the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam were not given to any other Prophet.” A person said to the Imam: “Isa, alaihis Sallam was given the miracle of bringing the dead back to life.” Whereupon Imam Shafi’ replied: “Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was given the miracle where a tree cried. Crying of a dead tree is a bigger miracle indeed.”
The reason why this same column is also known as the Column of the Mushaf is according to a narration by Malik ibn Anas, that Hajjaj ibn Yusuf sent copies of the Qur’an Majeed to many of the major cities at the time, and the one sent to Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah was placed in a box and kept to the right of this column. And Allah the Almighty knows best.
*
Insha’Allah, to be continued.
Pardon my recent absence. Allah Ta’ala writes “surprise package scripts” bringing a different focus to one’s sometimes “taken for granted routine”, and the fickle net connection here adds such an intriguing element of another sort! Alhumdulillah ‘alaa kulli hal!
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
May 10, 2007
TAHAJJUD….
And during a part of the night, pray tahajjud beyond what is incumbent on you; so that your Lord may elevate you to a position of great glory. (Al-Isra, 17:79)
Their sides forsake their couches as they call on their Lord in fear and hope…(As-Sajdah 32:16)
Is he who devotes the night hours to worship, prostrating himself and standing up in night prayer, aware of the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord…? (Az-Zumar 39:9)
And who spend the night before their Lord, prostrating themselves and standing up….(Al-Furqan 25:64)
Tahajudd, the night prayer that was observed by our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam from midnight up to the appearance of the early dawn. The word is derived from “Hujud”, meaning sleep, while "Tahajjud", literally signifies giving up of sleep.
The Prophet was asked to stand up in prayer at night and seek nearness to Allah Ta’ala by the following verses:
You [Prophet] enfolded in your cloak! Keep vigil throughout the night, all but a small part of it, half, or a little less, or a little more; recite the Qur’an slowly and distinctly. We shall send a momentous message down to you. Night prayer makes a deeper impression and sharpens words. (Al-Muzzammil 73:1-6)
A diagram of the position of the Mubarak Mihrab where our Beloved Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam would stand, until his feet were swollen and his beard soaked with his tears of pearls, entreating his Lord. The small room in front of this place of Tahajjud, was the house of the Queen of Jannah, Lady Fatimah, her blessed husband Ali and their children, RadhiAllahu anhum. (Insha’Allah I will expand on the other Mubarak pillars in the next post)
Mihrab At-Tahajjud before it was covered with a bookcase. Below, as it is today, hidden behind the bookcase to the left. This is an older photo, as all the pillars and supports are now painted in cream tones.
Great rewards and merits have been promised for the night prayer. Allah descends to the lowest heaven in the latter part of the night and invites invocations and petitions. Therefore the latter part of the night, is the opportune moment for acceptance of prayers. There is a moment in the night in which the prayer of a devotee is accepted. Night prayer expiates and prevents sins. The honoured among the Muslims are those learned in the Quran and those who pray at night.
If a man prays in the night and sleep overcomes him during it, Allah Ta’ala writes for him the reward of his prayer, and his sleep is sadaqa for him. SubhanAllah!
Insha’Allah it is also said that if we sleep in the state of Wudhu and with the intention of waking for Tahajjud, but for some reason we miss it, then it is written as having been performed. But not to make a habit of this generosity from Allah Ta’ala! Some scholars say to recite the following before sleeping helps one to wake for this prayer:
But those who believe and do good deeds will be given Gardens of Paradise. They will remain there never wishing to leave. Say [prophet], “If the whole ocean were ink for writing the words of my Lord, it would run dry before those words were exhausted”-even if We were to add another ocean to it. Say, “I am only a human being like you, to whom it has been revealed that your God is One-anyone who fears to meet his Lord should do good deeds and give no one a share in the worship due to his Lord. (Al-Kahf 18:107-110)
Relevant traditions from our Beloved Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam include:
“While any one of you is sleeping, Shaytan ties three knots on the nape of your neck, and all night long he strikes the spot where each knot is tied, keeping you asleep. But if you wake up and remember Allah, Exalted is He, one knot is undone; if you perform the ritual ablution, a second knot is untied; if you perform Prayer, the third knot is loosened and in the morning you will be fresh and in good spirits, otherwise the morning will find you bad-tempered and slothful.”
“Two cycles of Prayer performed in the middle of the night are better for a man than the world and all it contains. But for the hardship it would have caused my Ummah, I would have made them compulsory.”
“There is an hour of the night when, if any Muslim asks Allah, Exalted is He, for something good, He is sure to grant it to him. And that is every night.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam also said, "Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu, do you wish to enjoy Allah’s mercy in life and in death, in the tomb and at the Resurrection? The get up at night and pray! Do you wish for your Lord’s approval? The pray in the corners of your house; your house will be as radiant in the heaven as the light of the planets and stars is to people on earth.”
And he SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said to Abu Dharr, “If I were intending to make a journey, would I get provisions ready for it?” “Yes,” said he. “Well, Abu Dharr, how about the journey on the way to the Hereafter? Shall I not tell you what will be useful to you on that day?” “Of course! You are more to me than my father and mother.” “Fast on a very hot day, in preparation for the Day of Resurrection; perform two Prayer-cycles in the darkness of the night, in readiness for the desolation of the tomb; make a Pilgrimage, for the portentous events; do an act of charity, by giving alms to a pauper, by speaking a word of truth, or by holding back a word of evil.”
And, “Allah grants His mercy to a man who gets up in the night to pray, then wakes up his wife to pray also, sprinkling water on her face if she is unwilling, and Allah grants His mercy to a wife who gets up in the night to pray, then rouses her husband to pray also, sprinkling water on his face if he is unwilling. And if they both pray, they are recorded among the men and women who remember Allah often.”
And from our Noble Mother, Aishah RadhiAllahu anha:
“Once in the middle of the night Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam went out and prayed in the masjid and some men prayed with him. The next morning the people spoke about it and so more people gathered and prayed with him in the second night. They circulated the news in the morning, and so, on the third night the number of people increased greatly. Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam came out and they prayed behind him. On the fourth night the masjid was overwhelmed by the people till it could not accommodate them. Allah’s Apostle came out only for the Fajr prayer and when he finished the prayer, he faced the people and recited "Tashah-hud" (I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that Muhammad is His Apostle), and then said, "Amma ba’du. Verily your presence in the masjid at night was not hidden from me, but I was afraid that this Prayer of Tahajjud might be made compulsory and you might not be able to carry it out."
Masruq asked ‘Aishah RadhiAllahu anha, "What deed was the most beloved to the Prophet?" She said, "The regular constant one." I said, "At what time did he use to get up at night for the tahajjud night prayer?’ She said, "He used to get up on hearing the crowing of the cock, the last third of the night."
Also from our Noble Mother, Aishah RadhiAllahu anha, who said that our Blessed Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam would say:
“O Allah! All the praises are for you, You are the Holder of the Heavens and the Earth, And whatever is in them. All the praises are for You; You have the possession of the Heavens and the Earth And whatever is in them. All the praises are for You; You are the Light of the Heavens and the Earth And all the praises are for You; You are the King of the Heavens and the Earth; And all the praises are for You; You are the Truth and Your Promise is the truth, And to meet You is true, Your Word is the truth And Paradise is true And Hell is true And all the Prophets are true; And Muhammad is true, And the Day of Resurrection is true. O Allah ! I surrender (my will) to You; I believe in You and depend on You. And repent to You, And with Your help I argue (with my opponents, the non-believers) And I take You as a judge (to judge between us). Please forgive my previous and future sins; and whatever I concealed or revealed. And You are the One who make (some people) forward and (some) backward. There is none to be worshipped but You. “
And:
“He began weeping till the tears flowed on to his mubarak chest. He then performed ruku’, and continued crying in this posture. Then performed sajdah and kept on weeping in this posture too. He stood up from the sajdah and remained crying. He remained in this state till the morning when Bilal came to call out the adhan. I said: O Messenger of Allah, why did you cry so much? Allah Ta’ala has forgiven all your past and future sins’. Sayyidina Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam replied: ‘Should I not be a thankful servant of Allah? Then said: ‘Why should I not do so, when these ayat were revealed to me today, and he recited the ayat of the last ruku’ of Sura Aali ‘Imran’".
You who believe, be more steadfast, more steadfast than others; fortify yourselves; always be mindful of Allah, so that you may prosper.
And the reply on another occasion:
If you give thanks, I will surely give more. (Ibrahim 14:7)
Two Abdullahs, two dreams, and how their steadfastness on awaking for Tahajjud began:
· Narrated Abdullah Abu Salim RadhiAllahu anhu: In the life-time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasalam whosoever saw a dream would narrate it to him. I had a wish of seeing a dream to narrate it to Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasalam. I was a grown up boy and used to sleep in the Masjid in the life-time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasalam. I saw in the dream that two angels caught hold of me and took me to the Fire which was built like a well and had two poles in it and the people in it were known to me. I started saying, "I seek refuge with Allah from the Fire." Then I met another angel who told me not to be afraid. I narrated the dream to Lady Hafsa RadhiAllahu anha who told it to Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasalam, who said, "Abdullah is a good man. I wish he prayed Tahajjud." After that ‘Abdullah, Abu Salim RadhiAllahu anhu used to sleep but a little at night.
· Narrated Nafi RadhiAllahu anhu: Abdullah Ibn ‘Umar RadhiAllahu anhu said, "In the life-time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasalam I dreamt that a piece of silk cloth was in my hand and it flew with me to whichever part of Paradise I wanted. I also saw as if two angels came to me and wanted to take me to Hell. Then an angel met us and told me not to be afraid. He then told them to leave me. Lady Hafsa RadhiAllahu anha narrated my dream to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasalam who said, "Abdullah is a good man. Would that he offer the night prayer, Tahajjud!" So after that day ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar started offering Tahajjud.
Some traditions of the Companions and their Followers from Imam Al-Ghazali:
When others’ eyes were asleep Ibn Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhu, would get up and until morning a droning sound could be heard from him like the droning of bees.
It is said that Sufyan al-Thawri Rahmatullah alaihi ate his fill one night, saying, “When the donkey gets extra fodder, it works all the harder.” Then he kept vigil that night through till morning.
When Ta’us, Rahmatullah alaihi, reclined on his bed he would feel as restless as peas in a frying pan, so he would jump up and pray till morning. The he would say: “The recollection of Hell sends the sleep of the worshipful flying!”
Said Al-Hasan, Rahmatullah alaihi said: “We know of no harder act of piety than enduring through the night and offering up our money.” He was asked: “How is it that those people who observe the Prayers of night vigil are among the people with the most beautiful faces?” To this he replied: “Because they commune with the All-Merciful and He clothes them from His Light.”
Yusuf ibn Mihran said: “I have heard that beneath the Throne there is an Angel in the shape of a cock. Its talons are of pearl and its spurs of green topaz. When the first third of the night has passed it flaps its wings, crows and says: “Let those who get up arise!” When half the night is gone by it again flaps its wings, crows and says: “Let those who keep vigil arise!” Them when two thirds of the night have passed it once more flaps its wings, crows and says: “Let those who pray arise!” Finally when dawn breaks it flaps its wings, crows and says: “Let the heedless arise, bearing the weight of their sins!”
*
[Prophet], your Lord is well aware that you sometimes spend nearly two-thirds of the night at prayer-sometimes half, sometimes a third-as do some of your followers. (Al-Muzzammil 73:20)
May we be some of the followers mentioned in this Ayat, Ameen, Ameen, Ameen!
Take another glance at the position where the best of creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam spent his nights, by the wall of the house of the Queen of Jannah! Allow the heart to be transported, to fly high spiritually, to emulate this aspect of his noble practices in a corner of your house, clothed in His Light! Insha’Allah!
A beautiful selection of Ahadith from Shamaa-il Tirmidhi
http://www.inter-islam.org/hadeeth/st39.html
EXCELLENT answers from Sunnipath:
How to be consistent with your Tahajjud
http://qa.sunnipath.com/issue_view.asp?HD=1&ID=1241&CATE=4
http://qa.sunnipath.com/issue_view.asp?HD=7&ID=8054&CATE=3600
Virtues of Tahajjud
http://www.alinaam.org.za/library/tahajjud1.htm
JUMA’AH MUBARAK!
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
* blogsome being bothersome! this bold is NOT meant to be….but it persistently refuses to budge…Alhumdulillah!
March 15, 2007
The Prophet’s Masjid, though originally built in the most humble way, was the focal point of establishing all aspects of our Islamic society. It became the magnet for Islam, as well as being a defending fortress. The light of Islam spread from here as Allah Ta’ala had placed His chosen light of lights, Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam to illuminate the world through his teachings conducted within his Masjid. By the grace and mercy of Allah Ta’ala this light will continue to radiate, regardless of what form or shape the externals of the Masjid may take. And nothing can ever take away the heart’s ecstasy upon contemplating Jibreel Alaihis Sallam descending with new revelations to our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, or the voice of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam repeating these Sanctified Words of Allah Ta’ala, teaching them over and over to his faithful Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum, and they in turn conveying them to others. The whole of Madinah vibrated with the buzz of recitation. The beauty and sweetness, the nobility of the message, the power and vividness of its imagery, had a masterful sway over the hearts and minds of all. Such was the environment where the final message to mankind was completed and perfected, SubhanAllah!
The foremost task to shine from within the mud walls was the spiritual component, congregational Salat, the cohesive core of the Ummah unity, our individual response to the command of Allah Ta’ala, showing our obedience to Him, glorifying His Divinity and seeking His guidance. The establishment of prayer offered the way to purify the heart while strengthening the link between the slave and his Lord. The multi-purpose function of the Masjid was laid down; it became a sanctuary, for the traveler, the distressed, and the needy. It was a place of gathering, not only for local residents, but for foreign tribes and dispatching and receiving various foreign delegates. It was a university, conducting teaching and learning in all aspects of the Qur’an and Islamic sciences. It was a military command centre. The resounding call for Jihad echoed from this meek structure. During times of battle it even served as a hospital. And thus all aspects of a society emanated from Al-Masjid An-Nabawi as-Shairf, Alhumdulillah.
Sixty four date-palm trunks supported this original Mubarak Masjid, now there are 2725 marble columns, each 64 cm in diameter.
A low roof of thatched dried palm leaves was all that was between the worshippers and the searing sun, or the infrequent rains. Now there are 27 moving domes 14.70 meters in diameter and weighing 80 tons each, laminated with a ceramic outside surface, while the inside surface is carved Maple and Moroccan cedar inlaid with gold leaf and turquoise. Electronically controlled to open and shut according to the temperature and climatic conditions. Silently taking one minute to mechanically open and shut, or 30 minutes manually. 12 hydraulically operated umbrellas provide shade in the two internal open courtyards. Ornate ceilings richly carved and decorated and encrusted in all manner of glittering surfaces, giving the illusion of rising heavenward.
The natural mud floor instilled humility, the forehead cushioned on the hallowed dust of this most sanctified place on earth. Once when it rained the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s Mubarak face, and all others attending the Salat RadhiAllahu anhum, were smeared with mud from prostrating. Many of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum then began bringing in dry rubble and sand to spread over the earth. Upon seeing this Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “What a good carpet you have brought in!”
Polished Italian marble, at times one lifting the hem of your clothing like Bilqees due to it shimmering like the still reflective surface of water and thick plush decorative carpets are now under bare soles.
The highest house near the Masjid belonged to a woman of the Najjar clan. Just before dawn Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu would come there to sit on the roof waiting for the first faint light in the east. It is said that his call to prayer could be heard all over Madinah at the time.
Now a sound system of 206 amplifiers, each 600 watt, with 3500 speakers reverberate the Adhan across the city.
Three doors were all that were in the original Masjid. Now there are 85 decorative main entrance doors, each 3x6 meters, with countless smaller ones.
Straw fires lit in the open courtyard for evening prayers at the time of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Later oil lamps were attached to the date- palm trunks for the evening and dawn prayers. This was a welcomed innovation from Ash-Sham by Tamim ad-Dari RadhiAllahu anhu, who was more rewarded by the comment by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam saying to him: “You have illuminated our Masjid. May Allah Ta’ala illuminate your life.”
Now there are 11 electrical sub stations in the basement to power 67,000 brass lighting fixtures, 68 gold plated chandeliers each 6.8 meters in diameter and 110 entrance chandeliers .
The natural breeze was all that gave respite to the inhabitants at the time, now a huge air conditioning station located 7 km from the Masjid, connected by tunnels and kilometers of pipes ensures year round pleasant temperatures. The current work plans are to cover the entire outside courtyard with the heat resistant umbrellas.
After a time a date-palm trunk was set up for Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu to call Adhan from, now there are six main soaring minarets at 104 meters, the lower portion granite, the upper section coloured artificial stone, with a crescent made of gold plated bronze, this section weighing 4.5 tons at a height of 7 meters. There are four older minarets from previous expansions.
Other features include; CCTV monitoring and control system with 543 cameras! A Fire detection system, escalators, chilling facilities for Zamzam, two levels of underground car parking accommodating 4500 cars, with the new extensions adding hundreds more.
The current praying capacity, including the external courtyard, [but not the streets which are overflowing during the peak seasons], and roof area is approximately 800,000.
Let us for a moment imagine we are back in time listening to the very words of the first Khutbah delivered by our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam in his magnificent Masjid.
After praising Allah Ta’ala he said: “To proceed: O people, send forth [good deeds] for yourselves. You know, by Allah, that each one of you will be struck [by death]. Then he [that is each one of you] will leave behind his sheep, which will be left without a shepherd. Then, without a translator, and without a veil separating [Allah] from him, his Lord will say to him, ‘Did not My Messenger come to you and convey to you [My message]? I gave you wealth and I bestowed favours upon you; then what did you send forth [that is in terms of deeds] for yourselves?’ He will then look to his right and then to his left, and he will not see anything. Then he will look before him and all that he will see is the Hellfire. So whosoever is able to protect his face from the Hellfire even with part of a date [that is by giving it in charity], then let him do so. And whosoever does not find [even part of a date to give in charity], then let him do so with a good word, for the reward of a good deed is multiplied ten times, and up to seven hundred times. And may peace, the mercy of Allah, and His blessings be upon you.”
May our hearts forever be moved by all that went before, reliving through all means available to us the essence of our glorious Deen as shown to us by our most cherished of creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and his esteemed Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum in the most blessed of cities, this Forever Radiant Madinah, the Humble. Ameen.
JUMA’AH MUBARAK!
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
March 14, 2007
The Mihrabs
The Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam prayed for about sixteen months facing towards Al-Quds when he first arrived in Madinah, and then Allah Ta’ala revealed:
Turn your face towards Masjid al-Haram. (2:149)
Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam then began praying for some time (narrations vary as to how long, some say a few days, others a few months, and Allah Ta’ala knows best) at the place known as Ayesha’s Pillar. (green dot on plan below, blue arrow indicates direction of Qiblah) He SallAllahu alahi wasallam then started leading Salat at the place where the current Mihrab is. During the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam and his four Rightly Guided Caliphs RadhiAllahu anhum there was no mihrab. This mihrab is the most accurately placed on earth, as the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam assisted by Jibreel Alaihis Sallam directed its placement together, SubhanAllah! By standing in the mihrab for offering Salat, the place of Sajda will be where the Noble Nabi SallAllahu alahi wasallam’s feet would have been, as his place of Sajda has intentionally been covered by the thick wall of this Mihrab.
To the back of the mihrab is the Perfumed Pillar, (blue dot) where Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam used to offer his voluntary Salat. It is called the Perfumed Pillar because one day Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam saw that someone had spat on the palm trunk which was there at the time, and he was upset, whereupon one of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhu quickly rose and perfumed it, at which Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam was pleased.
In 91 AH Umar Abdul Aziz made a hollow prayer niche at this position.
Sultan Qaitbuy in 888AH rebuilt the mihrab in the present form, while King Fahd in 1404 AH renovated it.
Uthmani Mihrab, to the south of the place where the Prophet led Salat, is where the Imams now lead Salat. Caliph Uthman RadhiAllahu anhu constructed this mihrab when he extended the Masjid.
On the right side of this mihrab is an inscription reading: “The Prophet, may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him, said, ‘If it would please you that your prayers be accepted, let the scholars among you lead you in prayer [under this portion of the inscription another line reads: let the best among you lead you in prayer] for they are your mediators, between you and your Lord, August and Majestic is He.”
Another inscription under this reads: “O Allah, let your blessings and peace be upon Your noblest creation, Muhammad, and upon his family and all his Companions.”
On the left side the inscription reads: “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him, said, ‘Straighten your ranks, for your ranks correspond to those of the Angels. Align your elbows and leave no interval between you. Be soft to your brother’s hands; leave no spaces for the devil. He who completes a rank, Allah, Exhalted and Blessed is He, will reward him accordingly, and he who breaks a rank, Allah will sever him.”
Umar Abdul Aziz constructed a mihrab at this place in 91 AH.
To the west of where the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam used to pray is the Sulaimani mihrab, which did not exist at the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam or his Companions RadhiAllahu anhum. It was built at the time of by the ottoman Sultan Sulaiman for the Hanafi Imam to lead Salat for the Hanafis, leaving the main mihrab for the Imam of the Shafi congregation. As in Makkah at the time, the different Madhhabs would offer their respective Iqama according to their individual school of thought. Since the Saudi rule all are united behind one Hambali Imam, and thus this mihrab is no longer used. King Fahd ordered it to be decorated with colourful stones and a gold gilt.
Insha’Allah more on the Tahajjud Mihrab later.
The current Imams of Al-Masjid al-Nabawi with links to their recitations.
Sheikh Ali Abdur-Rahmaan Al Hudhaifi
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=43&TitleName=Quran_-_Ali_AbdurRehman_Huthayfe
http://quran.mangga.com/quran_mp3_hudhaifi.html
http://quran.al-islam.com/Display/recitation.asp?nType=1&l=eng&nSora=1&nAya=1&sel=1
This is the translation of Sheikh Hudhaifi’s Khutbah that resulted in his arrest in 1998, an interesting read. He has subsequently been under “house arrest” on other occasions since then as well.
http://www.robert-fisk.com/sheikh_hudhaifi_khutbah_mar13_1998.htm
Sheikh Abdul Bari Al-Thubaiti
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=13&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdul_Bary_Al-Thobaity
http://www.islamcan.com/cgi-bin/increaseiman/htmlfiles/static/104281147051740.shtml
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=35&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Husayn al Shaykh
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=54&TitleName=Quran_-_Hosain_Al-Alshaikh
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=163&vqerraa=1
Shaikh Dr. Salah Al Budair (has led taraweeh prayers at Masjid al-Haram since 2005)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=106&TitleName=Quran_-_Salah_Al-Budair
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=71&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Abdul Muhsin al Qasim (for taraweeh prayers)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=23&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdul_Mohsen_Alqasem
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=29&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Maahir Hamad Al-Mu’ayqili (for taraweeh prayers)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=220&TitleName=Quran_-_Mahir_Hamad_Al-M’eiqili
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=161&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Abdullaah `Awwaad Al-Juhanee (for taraweeh prayers, but from 2005 has led taraweeh prayers at Masjid al-Haram)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=194&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdullah_Awad_Al-Juhani
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=68&vqerraa=1
Compilation of four reciters fro Masjid Nabawi
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=23&vqerraa=1
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The following was in today’s paper….reminded me of Surah Al-Asr, where Allah Ta’ala swears by TIME. Ma’ariful Qur’an tafseer (the end of volume eight) reveals the state of loss man is in if we do not heed the rest of the message of this Surah. This clock tower seems to defy this very message. May Allah Ta’ala save us all. Ameen.
http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=93603&d=14&m=3&y=2007&pix=kingdom.jpg&category=Kingdom
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
March 7, 2007
Enter it in peace and safety, says the inscriptions in Arabic above all the entrances.
Insha’allah, this is the first of a series I intend to post focusing on the distinctive features of Al-Masjid An-Nabawi As-Sharif.
Pink: The original Masjid constructed by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam 1 Hijrah. Aishah RadhiAllahu anha said: "Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wassalam mounted his camel, which knelt down at the site of his Masjid. It belonged to two orphan boys, in the care of As’ad bin Zurarah; and when his mount knelt Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: ‘This, Allah willing, is the place where it has stopped.’ The he called for the two orphan boys and negotiated with them over the price of the land, in order to use it for the Masjid, but they said: ‘No, we will donate it to you, O Messenger of Allah!’ The he had the Masjid built on it and he began to move the bricks with them for the building of it, and he said:
‘This work is not the work of Khaybar,
This is more precious, O our Lord, and purer.’
And he said:
O Allah ! The reward is the reward of the Hereafter, so show mercy to the Ansar and the Muhajirun.’" (Bukhari)
And Nafi’ RadhiAllahu anhu said that Abdullah bin Umar RadhiAllahu anhu told him that in the time of Rasulullag SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, the Masjid was built from date-palm branches and its pillars were the trunks of the date-palm trees.
The Masjid measured 35x30m. From how we see the Masjid today, the original one included the Rowdha, plus two rows of pillars on the western side and two rows on the northern side. Insha’Allah I intend to cover these in greater detail later.
Dark Orange: The first expansion took place after the Battle of Khaybar due to the increase in the number of Muslims, Alhumdulillah. The foundations were made of stone and its walls from adobe bricks and the pillars from the trunks of the date-palm trees and the height of the roof was seven cubits. It was Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu who purchased the land for this extension. This extension became a sunnah for future efforts to expand the Masjid. Umar RadhiAllahu anhu was to have said during his Caliphate that had he not heard the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam say that he would increase the size of the Masjid, then he never would have done so.
There was no expansion as such during the Caliphate of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq RadhiAllahu anhu, but he supervised the replacement of the pillars made form date-palm trunks from the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam due to their decaying.
Yellow: The expansion during the Caliphate of Umar bin Al-Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu, 17 AH. It was built in the same style as done by The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, except that the stone foundations were built to the height of an average man, and the date-palm trunks were replaced with wood, adobe bricks and date-palm branches were still used.
Umar RadhiAllahu anhu made a public square outside the Masjid, known as Al-Butaiha’. He said about it: "Whoever wishes to make a noise, or raise his voice, or recite poetry, let him go out to it." This area was incorporated into the main Masjid during subsequent expansions.
A detail of the above. Each dot represents a column, so I have not stated that x number were added at each of the stages of expansion. Insha’Allah details regarding some of the pillars to be posted later.
Orange: During the time of Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu, 29 AH. Apart from the increase in size, the changes made during this expansion included use of carved stone and plaster for the walls and a roof of Saj, a soft wood from India which has a pleasant sweet smell. The current Mihrab is located where Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu used to lead the prayer from.
The eastern side was untouched as this was where the houses of Ummuhatul Mu’mineen were.
Blue: During the time of the Umayyad caliph, Al-Walid bin ‘Abdul-Malik, (88-91 AH), who sent the order to the then Governor of Madinah, Umar ibn ‘Abdal-Aziz to enlarge the Masjid and to incorporate into the extension the houses of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s widows RadhiAllahu anhunna, who had all passed on by then. A wall was built around the house of Lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anhu, containing the three tombs. Four minarets were added to the Masjid, one at each corner. The walls were built of carved stone and the pillars were hollowed-out stone, filled with iron and lead for supports. Two ceilings were made, an upper and a lower, the lower one being of Saj wood. The internal walls were decorated with geometric designs of marble and gold and mosaic. The gilding of the ceilings and tops of the columns and the lintels of the doors was completed, and twenty doors were opened.
Purple: During the time of Al-Mahdi, the Abbasid, 160-165 AH. The doors were increased to twenty four with the northern side expanded taking in the houses of Abdur-Rahman bin ‘Auf, which was known as Darul Mulaikah, the house of Shurahbil bin Hasanah and the remains of the house of Abdullah bin Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhuma, which was known as Darul-Qurra.
Brown: During the time of Qaitbay 886-888 AH. When the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s Masjid was burnt on the night of the 13th of Ramadhan 886 AH, Sultan Qaitbay undertook the task of a complete restoration of the Masjid. He widened the eastern side, and made a single ceiling at the height of twenty-two cubits, and he rebuilt the Chamber as it is now. The current Mihrab dates from then and the first Mukabbariyyah was erected at that time. These extensions remained for three hundred and seventy years!
Salmon: During the time of Sultan ‘Abdul-Majeed 1260-1277 AH. (More details of this time here) The Ottomans quarried a red rock, resembling carnelian from mountains around Madinah to use for this phase of the extensions. The floor was covered in marble and the pillars burnished to resemble the colour of the stone. The domes were engraved with designs and patterns and the pillars in the Rowdha were clad with white and red marble to distinguish them from the others.
Light Blue: The first Saudi extension, during the time of King ‘Abdul-’Aziz. 1370-1373 AH. This extension was distinguished by the fact that it was built in the form of a concrete edifice. Three of the five existing minarets were demolished, with two new ones erected at the eastern and western corners, the height of each being 72 meters. The number of pilgrims increased dramatically, so King Faisal in 1392 AH was responsible for the erection of large shaded enclosures made with metal roofing on the western side, but this did not affect the actual structure of the Masjid.
Green: The second Saudi extension, during the time of King Fahd bin ‘Abdul-’Aziz 1405-1414 AH. By far the largest extension increasing the surface area on all four sides, making the capacity to accommodate 650,000 worshippers. The number of minarets was increased to ten and the doors to 86, with the roof available for more pilgims during the high seasons, and the basement used as a two leveled car park.
And the THIRD Saudi extension….in progress, Insha’Allah! A huge increase hugging Jannatul Baqi! Masha’Allah.
To be continued, Insha’Allah.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
November 13, 2006
Dome of Felicity
"….with silent gratitude and flowing tears we gazed at the Dome of Felicity, a round shining green gem in a sea of white pearls from under which beckoned my liege-lord and Prophet, the dearest Beloved of the Merciful, upon him and his Family and Companions, and upon all Prophets Allah’s blessings and peace." From the Two Holy Sanctuaries by Gibril Fouad Haddad.
The Sacred Chamber had no dome until the year 678 A.H. (1282 A.D.) to distinguish the Chamber from the rest of the roof covering the Masjid building, there was a barrier of bricks running parallel to the room. Its height was about one metre. The Sultan Qalaawoon Al-Salihi became the first person to build a dome on the Sacred Chamber. It had a rectangular base supporting the octagonal structure for the dome. This foundation was made of timber and the dome of lead. According to Samhoudi in his Wafa’ al Wafaa there was an opening from the top from which one could see the lower ceiling. The dome was then called Al-Zarqa, as it was bluish in colour due to the nature of the lead.
The dome was renovated during the reign of Sultan of Al-Nassir Hassan ibn Muhammad Qalaawoon, and the repaired during the reign of Al-Ashraf Shaban ibn Hussein in the year 765 A.H. (1366 A.D.) and again during the reign of Sultan Qaitabai in the year 881 A.H. Rain would seep in damaging the timber, thus requiring these regular renovations.
The Sacred Chamber and the dome were burnt and damaged in a fire that swept through Masjid Nabawi in the year 886 A.D. (This was the second fire to damage the building, the first being earlier in the year 654 A.D.) After this fire the citizens of Madinah wrote to the ruler of Egypt Al-Ashraf Qaitabai who subsequently sent all the necessary materials and supplies, along with masons and money for the renovation of the Masjid. The building of the roof was completed in 888 A.H. while the entire reconstruction work was completed around 890 A.H. The new dome was white, known as Al-Baida, the White, while the columns supporting the dome were now made of sturdy bricks compared to the previous wood, and they extended to the ground, and parallel to the Masjid pillars. Windows of copper were opened in the compartment in the southern side facing Qiblah and windows of steel were built on the north-east and western sides. The upper side had layers of copper to prevent pigeons from getting inside.
Due to extreme weather conditions, and maybe the materials used the dome was constantly crumbling and cracking with repairs not lasting long at all. Sultan Qaitabai instructed the demolition of the upper part in the year 892 A.H., attempting to guard it against future fissures and cracks.
It seems that the next stage of major renovation was not until the Ottoman Sultan Mahmoud ibn Abdul Hameed’s time when he gave instructions for renovations in 1233 A.H. And this is how the edifice stands today. This is when the instructions for painting the dome green were executed, which has largely been adhered to till now, Alhumdulillah. From this time it is affectionately known as the Green Dome. Another name it has previously been called is Al-Faiha, the Fragrant.
Jazakallahu khairan katheeran abada to Yusuf for his delicate depiction of the Dome of Felicity. His attractive addition of rainbow birds soaring above this sanctified Abode of the Best of Creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, seem to symbolize the fervency the heart feels when contemplating our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam resting below. May Yusuf, along with all desirous of treading the perfumed dust and inhaling the Mubarak air surrounding our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam soon be one of the ones beckoned to this Noble Sanctuary. Ameen.
From the Mathnawi of Maulana Jaami R.A. in Virtues of Salaat Alan Nabi.
14. How wonderful would be that day when to your abode I shall come and blacken my eyes with the dust of Madinah. (May the Lord hasten that day of my arrival in Madinah, to refresh my eyes with the dust of Madinah.)
15. How wonderful would be that day, when after prayers of thanks, prostration of thanks, my soul shall fly midst the Holy Sepulchre?
16. When in loving madness, cheering heart and over flowing yearning, I shall walk around your grave and the Green Dome.
17. How glorious that day when from the clouds of my eyes, raindrops of tears shall sprinkle upon the threshold of your Haram and your grave.
18. When in joyful bliss I shall feel blessed to sweep away the dust of your Haram. And in ecstasy to remove all the dust from around you.
19. Though dust be hurtful to the eyes, yet will your dust be a light and cure for me, and though litter be of no benefit to wounds, to me the litter of Madinah shall be a perfect cure for the ills of my heart.
And from Qasidah Burda:
No perfume equals the earth, which is touching his (noble) body
Glad tidings to the person who smells and kisses it.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
July 8, 2006
ADHAN.
Piercing.
Riveting.
Piercing all the senses through to the core of the heart. Riveting the soul to focus all attention on The One!
ALLAHU AKBAR! resonates across the Enlightened City. Lighting hearts to the hope of another prayer to be offered, adding to their account, Insha’Allah. A prayer multiplied by 1,000 according to one narration, and 50,000 according to another when offered in Masjid Nabawi AsShareef. ALLAH AKBAR!
206 amplifiers with 3500 speakers boom the sound of the Mu’adhdhin, ricocheting from minaret to minaret. Echoing the passionate lilt from Masjid Nabawi are the thousands of other local Masaajid rendering their call to the sounds waves. All of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah seems to be vibrating with this ultimate invitation, the perfection of Da’wah, five times daily. The veneration increases with each phrase. First we hear the pinnacle of our Tauheed, ALLAHU AKBAR, etching deeper and deeper as it is repeated four times, the Greatness of Allah.
Allahu Akbar
Allah is Great
We then reaffirm out belief and Yaqeen in Allah as we hear twice,
Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah
I bear witness that there is no god except Allah.
Followed by our witness to Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam being His Messenger, said twice,
Ashadu anna Muhammadan Rasool Allah
I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
Hayya ‘ala-s-Salah
Hurry to prayer. Hurry to prayer. (Rise up for prayer)
Hayya ‘ala-l-Falah
Hurry to success. Hurry to success. (Rise up for Salvation)
Allahu Akbar
Allah is Great
La ilaha illa Allah
There is no god except Allah.
For the pre-dawn (fajr) prayer, the following phrase is inserted after "hurry to success"
As-salatu Khayrun Minan-nawm
Prayer is better than sleep, repeated twice.
SubhanAllah, from morning till night, a constant reminder, an ongoing affirmation, an opportunity for repetitive renewal of Iman, a perpetual celebration, a continual prompter, a permanent shake! May we all take heed. Only through prayer is the way to success. Success in both worlds.
For a moment contemplate how this call to success has reverberated across this blessed valley for more than fourteen centuries! SubhanAllah! Every dust particle and air molecule, every living creature, every human and jinn, witnessing, invited, seduced by the magnificence of this Daw’ah. SubhanAllah! And then stretch our imagination even more and try to conjure how it was with Sayyiduna Bilal
RadhiAllahu anhu, the first Mu’adhdhin appointed by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. His voice so sweet and yet so powerful it could reach the boundaries of Madinah at the time of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu used to stand on the stump of a palm trunk to deliver Adhan. The approximate position of this corresponds today to the entrance area for the men just inside Bab Baqi. (Diagonally opposite towards the Baqi direction from our Beloved Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.) For Salatul Juma’ah Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu would stand just in front of the Mimbar to recite Adhan, the position of the raised marble MUKABBARYA, where the Adhan is called from now.
Sayyiduna Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu has been so elevated in the Eyes of Allah Ta’ala. Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam heard his footsteps, or his presence in Jannah. When Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam asked Bilal, "What did you do to get to Jannah before me? I have never entered Jannah without hearing the rustling of your garments in front of me." He replied, "Messenger of Allah, I have never called the Adhan without praying two rak’ahs, and no impurity has ever happened to me without my performing ablution on the spot and thinking that I owed Allah two rak’ahs." Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "It is because of them."
In the initial days of Islam in Madinah Muslims gathered for Salah at the appointed times without being summoned. Later the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, thought about using a trumpet like the Jews used to summon to prayer. He disliked that idea and ordered a clapper made of two pieces of wood to be beaten at Salah times. Then Abdullah ibn Zayd, RadhiAllahu anhu, an Ansari, came to him and said: "O Messenger of Allah, I had a dream last night: A man wearing two green garments came to me holding a bell, so I offered to buy it. When he asked me what I wanted it for, I told him that it was to summon people to Salah, whereupon he offered to show me a better way. It was to say four times: ‘Allahu Akbar’, then to say twice: Ash-hadu allaa ilaaha ilia Allah, then twice: ash-hadu anna Muhammadar rasoolullah, then twice: hayya ‘alas-salah, then twice: hayya ‘alal-falah, then "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar laa ilaaha ilia Allah ." "It is a true vision insha Allah," said the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, adding, "Go and teach it to Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu for he has a more beautiful and far reaching voice." For the first time Madinah resonated with the Adhan as Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu was saying it. It was only fitting that the one who uttered the word of Tauheed under the harshest of torture should utter it during the Adhan. When Umar RadhiAllahu anhu heard the Adhan he rushed to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and said; "By the One Who has sent you with the Truth I had the same dream about it!" "Revelation has already preceded you," replied the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
The blissful days with the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam soon came to an end. Everyone in Madinah wept over the death of the dearest man ever on Earth. Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu was asked to make Adhan before the burial of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. He started the call: "Allahu Akbar…", but when he came to the name of the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, he was sobbing so heavily, he could not continue. He said: "By Allah I will not say the Adhan anymore." He asked the Khalifah, Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu, to allow him to go to ash-Sham for Jihad, where he spent the rest of his life. He made Adhan only twice since then. The first was when Umar RadhiAllahu anhu came to ash-Sham.
Once he beheld the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam in his dream saying to him: "O, Bilal! How is it that you never visit me?" No sooner did he get up than he set out for Madinah. On reaching there, Hasan and Husain RadhiAllahu anhuma (The Prophet’s SallAllahu alaihi wasallam grandsons) requested him to call out the Adhan. He could not refuse them, for they were very dear to him. This was the second time of calling Adhan since the departure of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. But as soon as he began the people of Madinah cried openly with anguish at the memory of the Prophet’s SallAllahu alaihi wasallam time. Even the women came out of their houses weeping. Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu left Madinah again after a few days and died in Damascus in 20 A.H. As mentioned in the last post, he will be resurrected at the feet of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. And Allah knows best.
Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam did not make Adhan at all throughout his life, except at the time of birth of his grandsons, when Adhan is said in the right ear and Iqama in the left. Adhan is complete Daw’ah and Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam the perfect Da’e, so strange that he never made Adhan. He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was Imam but never Mu’adhdhin.
The Ulema say the reason is to be found in one verse of Qur’an Majeed.
A messenger has come to you from among yourselves. Your suffering distresses him: he is deeply concerned for you and full of kindness and mercy towards the believers. (9:128)
If Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam has made Adhan he would have been calling people to "come to Salat". And even if only one person did not respond they would have been destined for Jahannam Audhu biLlah, because they would have rejected the command of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, THE MERCY TO ALL MANKIND. Such MERCY prevented him SallAllahu alaihi wasallam from ever calling Adhan and thus potentially harming any one of his Ummah
Subhanallah Subhanallah Subhanallah. How magnificently sublime is Allah Ta’ala’s Hikmah!!!!!!!!!!!
Some virtues related to Adhan based on Ahadith: Du’a made between the Adhan and the Iqamah is not rejected.
Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: He who calls Adhan for twelve years is assured of Paradise and sixty merits are recorded for him every day for every Adhan and thirty merits for every Iqamah.
Narrated Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu: Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "When the Adhan is pronounced Shaytan takes to his heels and passes wind with noise during his flight in order not to hear the Adhan. When the Adhan is completed he comes back and again takes to his heels when the Iqama is pronounced and after its completion he returns again till he whispers into the heart of the person to divert his attention from his prayer and makes him remember things which he does not recall to his mind before the prayer and that causes him to forget how much he has prayed."
Narrated ‘Abdul Rahman RadhiAllahu anhu: Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu anhu told my father, "I see you liking sheep and the wilderness. So whenever you are with your sheep or in the wilderness and you want to pronounce Adhan for the prayer raise your voice in doing so, for whoever hears the Adhan, whether a human being, a jinn or any other creature, will be a witness for you on the Day of Resurrection." Abu Said RadhiAllahu anhu added, "I heard this narration from Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam."
This photo was taken in a remote desert area approximately 25 km north west of Madinah at Maghrib time. The "masjid" consisted of low "walls" with the sky as the upper walls and ceiling, SubhanAllah. You will see the Mu’adhdhin standing inside this masjid having adjusted the "sound system" for Adhan!! Think of the thawab!
Abu Said Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu anhu also said that he heard Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam say, "Whenever you hear the Adhan, say what the Mu’adhdhin is saying."
Narrated Jabir bin ‘Abdullah RadhiAllahu anhu: Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "Whoever after listening to the Adhan says, ‘Allahumma Rabba hadhihi-d-da’ watit-tammati was-salatil qa’imati, ati Muhammadan al-wasilata wal-fadilata, wab’ athhu maqaman mahmudan-il-ladhi wa’ adtahu (O Allah! Lord of this perfect call (of not ascribing partners to You) and of the regular prayer which is going to be established! Kindly give Muhammad the right of intercession and superiority and send him (on the Day of Judgment) to the best and the highest place in Paradise which You promised him)’, then intercession for me will be permitted for him on the Day of Resurrection").
Narrated Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu: Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "If the people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row in congregational prayers and found no other way to get that except by drawing lots they would draw lots, and if they knew the reward of the Zuhr prayer (in the early moments of its stated time) they would race for it (go early) and if they knew the reward of ‘Isha’ and Fajr prayers in congregation, they would come to offer them even if they had to crawl."
I know of several people who have embraced Islam upon hearing Adhan. This is one account.
Such is the power of this passionate call, vibrating in the heart, whether Muslim or not, as all hearts ultimately belong to Allah Ta’ala, and are responding to His Fitrah.
An invitation repeated in rolling waves across the world day in and day out until the final Trumpet blast, Insha’Allah.
For those of the Ummah not in an Islamic country there are some options available for bringing Adhan into your daily routine. Audio downloads, special alarm clocks set to your local time, training all male family members, including young boys, to be the Mu’adhdhin, and thereby accruing all the rewards for this effort. And finally making Du’a for Islam to spread far and wide, gaining acceptance from the ones preventing Adahn to be called openly and publicly. As well as asking Allah Ta’ala to change the hearts of all authorities, where ever they may be, to allow our melodic call to Prayer and hence success be made wherever the Ummah is. Ameen.
All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
