Masjid e Nabawi: History, Significance, and Facts
Masjid e Nabawi (also written as Masjid Nabawi or Masjid e Nabvi) is the second holiest mosque in Islam after Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Located in the sacred city of Madinah, Saudi Arabia, this blessed mosque holds immense historical, spiritual, and religious importance for Muslims all over the world.
Masjid e Nabawi was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself after his migration from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous expansions which makes it not only a place of worship but also a center of Islamic learning, guidance, and unity.
Every year, millions of Muslims visit Masjid e Nabawi while performing Hajj or Umrah, and countless others travel to Madinah solely to pray in this sacred mosque. It is the resting place of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), which adds even more spiritual significance to the site.
History of Masjid e Nabawi
The Establishment
When Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) migrated from Makkah to Madinah, the first task he undertook was to establish a masjid – a house of worship and community center. He purchased a piece of land from two orphan brothers, where Masjid e Nabawi was constructed.
At that time, the structure was very simple: walls made of mud bricks, a roof of palm leaves, and columns from palm trunks. Despite its humble design, it became the foundation of Islamic governance, spirituality, and education.
Expansions During the Prophet’s Life
The mosque was expanded twice during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the number of Muslims grew. It served not only as a place of prayer but also as a court, school, and gathering place for the companions.
After the Prophet (ﷺ)
Following the Prophet’s passing, Masjid e Nabawi became even more significant because his blessed grave is located inside it. The mosque was later expanded by the Caliphs, Umayyads, Abbasids, and Ottomans, each contributing to its architectural beauty.
Modern Expansions
Today, under the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Masjid e Nabawi has been expanded massively. The mosque can accommodate more than a million worshippers at one time. Its modern facilities include large courtyards, air-conditioning, electronic sound systems, and retractable umbrellas for shade.
Significance of Masjid e Nabawi
-
Second Holiest Mosque in Islam
Masjid e Nabawi is second only to Masjid al-Haram in Makkah in terms of sanctity. Praying here carries immense reward. -
Rawdah – A Garden of Paradise
The area between the Prophet’s grave and his pulpit is known as Riyad-ul-Jannah (Garden of Paradise). Praying here is one of the greatest blessings. -
Prophet Muhammad’s Resting Place
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is buried here, along with his close companions Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA). -
Center of Knowledge
From the earliest days, Masjid Nabawi has been a center of Islamic learning. Today, it still hosts scholars and programs to spread Islamic knowledge.
Architecture and Features of Masjid e Nabvi
The Green Dome
One of the most iconic features of Masjid e Nabawi is the Green Dome, which is situated above the chamber of the Prophet (ﷺ). It was built in the 13th century and has become a symbol of the mosque.
Minarets and Domes
The mosque today has ten minarets and 27 sliding domes that open to allow natural ventilation.
Umbrella Canopies
In the courtyards, giant umbrella-like structures provide shade for worshippers, making it easier to pray during hot days.
Modern Facilities
The mosque has escalators, air-conditioning, libraries, and electronic systems to assist worshippers.
Religious Importance of Masjid e Nabavi
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“One prayer in my mosque is better than a thousand prayers in any other mosque except Masjid al-Haram.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
This hadith highlights the immense virtue of offering prayers in Masjid e Nabawi. For Muslims, visiting the mosque is a way of strengthening faith, seeking forgiveness, and feeling connected to the Prophet (ﷺ).
Masjid e Nabawi and Islamic Learning
From the earliest days, Masjid e Nabvi has been a hub for Islamic education. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught his companions here, and later scholars continued the tradition. Even today, lectures and halaqas (study circles) are held inside the mosque.
This legacy reminds us of the importance of continuously learning and teaching the Quran and Sunnah.
Online Quran Learning – Continuing the Legacy
At our online Quran institute, our mission is to carry forward this legacy of learning. Just as Masjid e Nabawi served as a center of Quranic education, we aim to provide Muslims worldwide with the opportunity to learn the Quran from the comfort of their homes.
✅ We offer one-on-one online Quran classes.
✅ Our tutors are qualified male and female teachers from Egypt and Pakistan.
✅ We cover Quran recitation, Tajweed, memorization, and Islamic studies.
✅ Flexible schedules for children and adults.
By enrolling in our online Quran academy, you can take part in the same noble journey of knowledge that began in Masjid e Nabawi.
Visiting Masjid e Nabawi
Entering the Mosque
When entering Masjid Nabawi, it is Sunnah to enter with the right foot and recite the supplication for entering the mosque.
Praying in Rawdah
Worshippers should try to pray in Rawdah if possible, but they must do so respectfully, without pushing others.
Sending Salutations
Muslims should send peace and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) when visiting his grave.
Interesting Facts About Masjid e Nabawi
-
It was the first place in Madinah to have electricity.
-
The mosque covers around 400,000 square meters today.
-
It has dedicated areas for women worshippers.
-
Millions of free meals are distributed in its courtyards during Ramadan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Masjid e Nabawi located?
Masjid e Nabawi is located in the holy city of Madinah, Saudi Arabia.
2. Why is Masjid e Nabawi important?
It is the second holiest mosque in Islam, the resting place of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and home to Rawdah, which is considered a part of Paradise.
3. Can women pray in Masjid e Nabawi?
Yes, the mosque has dedicated areas for women, and women can also pray in Rawdah at specific times.
4. What is Rawdah in Masjid Nabawi?
Rawdah (Riyad-ul-Jannah) is the area between the Prophet’s grave and pulpit, which the Prophet (ﷺ) described as a garden from the gardens of Paradise.
5. What is the reward of praying in Masjid e Nabawi?
One prayer in Masjid e Nabawi is equal to the reward of 1,000 prayers in other mosques, except Masjid al-Haram.
6. Can I perform Itikaf in Masjid e Nabawi?
Yes, many Muslims perform Itikaf here during the last 10 days of Ramadan.
7. Who is buried in Masjid e Nabawi?
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Abu Bakr (RA), and Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) are buried in the chamber under the Green Dome.
Conclusion
Masjid e Nabvi is not only an architectural wonder but also a place filled with deep spirituality and history. It stands as a symbol of the Prophet’s mission, the spread of Islam, and the unity of the Muslim Ummah.
For Muslims, visiting Masjid e Nabawi is a cherished dream, but even if one cannot physically visit, staying connected to the Quran and Sunnah is the best way to honor the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
