5 Must visit Holy gems of Mecca During Your Umrah Pilgrimage
If you are visiting Mecca, there is no doubt that the Holy Kaaba will be your primary destination. Are you searching for other significant sites and wish to visit them as well? Worry not! You have come to the right place, where we will discuss the must visit holy places that hold great Muslim historical value and a special place in the hearts of believers. Here is a list of 5 must visit holy gems of Mecca that you can visit during your Umrah pilgrimage.
Ayesha Mosque
The second-largest mosque in Mecca, known as Ayesha Masjid or Masjid e Taneem, roughly 7.5 km from Masjid al-Haram, serves as the gateway to Umrah. Pilgrims enter this mosque and come out wearing the Ihram. This mosque has a remarkable history in Muslim books, as it is where Hazrat Ayesha (R.A) performed her Umrah with the permission of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The mosque provides bathing facilities for individuals to change into their Ihram attire before proceeding toward the Holy Kaaba. This Miqat is obligatory for Muslims performing Umrah. You can visit this mosque to explore its historical significance and admire its architectural style, which reflects the unity and strength of the Muslim community.
Bay’ah Mosque
The Bay’ah Mosque, also known as “the mosque of pledges,” is located near Mina. This mosque holds special historical importance, as it witnessed the two significant pledges, the Ansar of Madinah pledge and the Aqaba pledge. With a simple architectural design and an open courtyard, it lies below the Wadi Mina, just 300 meters away from the Jamrah al-Aqaba. The structure is devoid of elaborate decorations and features simple engraved patterns. The central arched area consists of five pillars with distinct designs and patterns. The prayer hall follows a simple design, and prayer rugs are available for anyone to offer prayers in this modest yet significant mosque.
Jannat ul-Mualla Cemetery
Jannat ul-Mualla, also known as the “Garden of the Mu’alla,” is a renowned cemetery situated in Mecca. Many of Muhammad’s ancestors and the wife of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) are buried in this sacred place, which holds a special place in Muslim history. Khadija, the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with Abu Talib and Abdul Mutallib (Muhammad’s grandfather), find their eternal rest here. The cemetery is surrounded by a long white wall, and it is highly regarded and respected by all pilgrims.
Cave of Hira
The Cave of Hira, also known as Jabal al-Hira, is a mountain located two miles from the Holy Kaaba. This cave has a profound historical significance, as it is the place where the Holy Prophet received the first revelations and the Quranic revelation began. The cave measures 1.5 meters in width and 4 meters in length. Due to the Holy Prophet’s solitary meditation in this cave, the mountain is also referred to as the “Mountain of Illumination.” Its sacred significance as the birthplace of Islam’s spiritual journey continues to inspire believers worldwide.
Birthplace of Muhammad (PBUH)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born in 570 CE in a mountain town situated on a high desert plateau in western Arabia. The house of Prophet Muhammad PBUH) is located on Suq al-Layl Street, in close proximity to the Holy Kaaba and the Great Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This house has undergone renovation and has been transformed into a library where one can access a wealth of information. The library is filled with Islamic books and offers valuable insights into history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mecca is not only the home to the revered Holy Kaaba but also a city rich in Islamic history, culture, and significance. From mosques that tell tales of devotion and unity to the very birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), each site has its own story to share. Embarking on an Umrah pilgrimage is undeniably a profound spiritual journey, and by exploring these hidden gems, one can truly immerse themselves in the depth of Islam’s legacy. Whether it’s a meditative moment in the Cave of Hira or a reflective visit to Jannat ul-Mualla Cemetery, these sites provide an enriching experience that complements the essence of the pilgrimage.
