Saudi Arabia

Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah guidelines

Posted on by Nimra Guffar
25
Sep

Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah guidelines

An Etiquette and Guidelines for a Blessed Visit

For Muslims worldwide, a visit to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, known as Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, is a journey of profound spiritual significance. It is a place of peace, prayer, and reflection, offering believers a chance to connect with the legacy of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). To ensure your visit is respectful, peaceful, and spiritually rewarding, it is essential to be aware of the specific guidelines and etiquette.

This guide aims to prepare you for this blessed experience.

The State of Ihram: Is It Required?

A common question is whether one needs to be in the state of Ihram (the sacred state for pilgrimage) to visit Madinah. The clear ruling is that Ihram is not required for visiting the Prophet’s Mosque. Ihram is specifically mandatory for performing Hajj or Umrah. Your journey to Madinah can be made in ordinary clothing. However, maintaining a state of purity and mindful intention is always encouraged.

The Recommended Acts Upon Arrival

When you first arrive in Madinah, it is recommended (Sunnah) to:

  • Proceed directly to the Prophet’s Mosque.
  • Enter with your right foot first, reciting the supplication for entering any mosque: “Bismillah, allahumma aftah li abwaba rahmatik”(In the name of Allah, O Allah, open the doors of Your mercy for me).
  • Offer a two-rak’ah prayer of greeting(Tahiyyat al-Masjid). This can be performed in any available space within the mosque, though the Riyadh al-Jannah garden area is highly virtuous.

Visiting the Sacred Sites Within the Mosque

The mosque contains several key sites, each with its own etiquette.

Sending Salaam upon the Prophet (PBUH)

The primary purpose of the visit is to send peace and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The area adjacent to his final resting place is marked. It is Sunnah to stand facing the grave respectfully and recite softly:

“As-salamu alayka ayyuhan-Nabiyyu wa  rahmatullahi  wa  barakatuh.”

(Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings.)

It is important to note that one addresses the Prophet (PBUH) directly with Salaam, as the soul of a believer is alive and receives the greetings. This is an act of faith, not worship of the grave.

The Graves of Abu Bakr and Umar (RA)

To the right of the Prophet’s (PBUH) resting place are the graves of his two closest companions, Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them). It is also recommended to send Salaam upon them.

The Riyadh al-Jannah (Garden of Paradise)

This is the area between the Prophet’s (PBUH) pulpit (minbar) and his living quarters (now his grave). It is identified by distinct green carpets. A hadith indicates it as a garden from the gardens of Paradise. Praying here is immensely virtuous, but it is often crowded. Be patient and respectful; any prayer within the entire mosque is blessed.

Essential Guidelines and Etiquette

To ensure your visit is in accordance with Islamic principles and respectful to other visitors, please adhere to the following:

  • Dress Modestly:Both men and women must observe Islamic dress code. Men should wear clothing that covers from the navel to the knees. Women must wear loose, opaque clothing that covers their entire body except for the face and hands. The abaya is highly recommended.
  • Maintain Decorum:The mosque is a place for worship and quiet reflection. Avoid loud conversations, worldly discussions, and any behavior that may disturb others. Silence your mobile phone.
  • No Idolization:It is forbidden in Islam to worship anyone besides Allah. Do not face the grave for supplication (dua). Your dua should only be directed to Allah. Do not rub the walls or seek blessings from objects.
  • Respect and Patience:The mosque is often very crowded, especially during prayer times. Be patient, kind, and avoid pushing or shoving. Remember that everyone is there for the same spiritual purpose.
  • Hygiene and Purity:It is recommended to be in a state of ablution (wudu) when visiting the mosque. The facilities for wudu and bathrooms are extensive and well-maintained.

What to Avoid

  • Do not specifically travel to Madinah onlyto visit the mosque before performing Hajj or Umrah, as this was not the practice of the Prophet (PBUH). The visit should be made after completing your pilgrimage rites in Makkah.
  • Do not raise your hands towards the grave while making dua.
  • Do not take photographs or videos inside the mosque, especially of the sacred chamber, as it is disrespectful.
  • Avoid causing harm or inconvenience to other worshippers.

A visit to the Prophet’s Mosque is a unique mercy. By following these guidelines with a sincere heart and respectful demeanor, you can ensure your visit is a source of blessing, peace, and spiritual renewal—an experience that will, God willing, remain with you for a lifetime.