We present you 6 things to know about the Holy Prophet’s grave.
In the heart of Masjid al-Nabawi lies a place of profound significance for Muslims worldwide—the sacred chamber that houses the grave of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
This revered site, constructed with meticulous care and steeped in history, stands as a symbol of devotion and preservation.
Here are the 6 things to know about the Holy Prophet’s grave:
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Construction and Painting:
- The dome enclosing the Prophet’s grave, constructed in 1817 C.E., bears witness to centuries of veneration.
- In 1837 C.E., Ottoman Sultan Mahmud bestowed a green hue upon the dome, adding a touch of majesty to the sacred structure.
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Golden Grill and Inner Chamber:
- A golden grill serves as the front facade of the inner chamber, which cradles not only the Prophet’s grave but also those of his esteemed companions, Abu Bakr and Umar ibn al-Khattab.
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Proximity to Aisha’s House:
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) found his final resting place in Aisha’s house, where he was residing at the time of his passing.
- The simplicity of the Prophet’s wives’ dwellings, including Aisha and Hafsa, in close proximity to Masjid al-Nabawi, emphasises the modest lifestyle embraced by the early Muslim community.
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Viewing Holes and Orientation:
- Three viewing holes in the golden grill offer a glimpse into the inner chamber, strategically positioned to face the graves of the Prophet, Abu Bakr, and Umar.
- The larger left hole directly aligns with the Prophet’s grave, while the middle and right holes correspond to the resting places of Abu Bakr and Umar, respectively.
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Protective Measures:
- The walls surrounding the inner chamber, crafted from black stones, were erected by Umar bin Abdul Aziz in 91 AH to safeguard the sacred site.
- Sultan Nuruddin Zengi further fortified the chamber with molten lead, responding to past attempts by disbelievers to desecrate the resting place.
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Prophet’s Burial Wishes:
- Prophet Muhammad’s burial was carried out precisely at the spot where he drew his last breath, underlining his wish to be laid to rest where he passed away.
- This decision, conveyed by Abu Bakr, ensures the Prophet’s eternal connection to the place of his departure from this world.
The sacred chamber in Masjid al-Nabawi continues to attract pilgrims from across the globe, offering them a profound space for reflection, prayer, and the opportunity to pay their respects to the beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Through centuries of preservation efforts and historical significance, the sanctity of this burial site remains a testament to the enduring reverence Muslims hold for their Prophet.
