Medina Live

Medina, The City of Light and Peace

Medina, known in the Islamic world as “Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah” (The Illuminated City), is not just a city but a symbol of faith, peace, and a fundamental pillar in the history of Islam. Located in the Hijaz region of Saudi Arabia, this sacred city holds a place of reverence in the hearts of millions of Muslims worldwide. It is the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the home of the second holiest mosque in Islam, the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi).

The history of Medina is intrinsically linked to the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). When he faced persecution in Mecca, he emigrated to Medina in the year 622 AD, an event known as the Hijra. This was a decisive moment that marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The city, which at that time was called Yathrib, welcomed the Prophet and his followers with open arms. The people of Medina, known as the Ansar (the helpers), and the immigrants from Mecca, the Muhajirun, formed a united community that served as the foundation for the first Islamic society.

The heart of Medina is the Prophet’s Mosque. Built by the Prophet Muhammad himself, this mosque has been expanded and beautified over the centuries, becoming a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its majestic green dome, the Green Dome, which rises over the Prophet’s tomb, is one of Islam’s most recognizable and revered landmarks. Pilgrims who visit the Prophet’s Mosque come to pay their respects to the Prophet and his first two caliphs, Abu Bakr and Umar ibn al-Khattab, who are also buried there.

Medina is a place of profound spirituality and tranquility. Unlike the bustle of Mecca during the Hajj (the major pilgrimage), Medina offers an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Visitors can walk the same paths the Prophet once walked, contemplate the date palm gardens, and visit historical sites like the Quba Mosque, the first mosque built in Islam.

The city is not just a pilgrimage destination but also a center of knowledge and culture. Medina’s universities and libraries attract students and researchers from all over the world who seek to deepen their understanding of Islam and its rich history.

In short, Medina is more than just a city. It is a beacon of light that has illuminated the world for centuries. It is a place where history, faith, and peace intertwine, offering an unforgettable spiritual experience to all who visit. It is the city of the Prophet, a refuge of peace, and the eternal home of the Hijra.