5 Fascinating Facts About the Green Dome of the Prophet's Mosque

The Prophet's Mosque, located in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, is one of the most revered sites in Islam. Known for its striking green dome, this mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also holds deep historical and spiritual significance. 

Here are five fascinating facts about the Green Dome of the Prophet's Mosque, built during the Umayyad Caliphate of Al-Walid I.

1. Constructed During the Umayyad Caliphate of Al-Walid I

Originally, the Prophet's Mosque featured a flat roof. Significant renovations between 879-895 AD, under the Umayyad Caliphate of Al-Walid I, transformed the mosque's structure by adding a dome. 

According to the book "Mosque Architecture" by Andika Saputra and Nur Rahmawati, this dome was constructed to mark the burial site of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions.

Sultan Kait Bey of Egypt further renovated the mosque, and in 1837 AD, the dome was painted green, making it a distinctive feature recognized by Muslims worldwide.

2. The Green Dome Covers the Prophet's Tomb

The Green Dome is situated directly above the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) tomb and the tombs of his companions. Its primary purpose is to protect the burial chamber, making it easy for pilgrims around the mosque to identify this sacred area. The dome not only enhances the mosque's beauty but also serves as a spiritual beacon for worshippers.

3. Golden Ornamentation on the Dome's Apex

At the apex of the Green Dome, there is a golden ornament that adds to its grandeur. This ornament was added by Sultan Mahmud II of the Ottoman Empire in 1813. The presence of this golden feature not only beautifies the dome but also increases its appeal to the pilgrims.

The Prophet's Mosque, which originally spanned just 50 by 50 meters, has now expanded to become one of the largest mosques in the world, second only to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Covering an area of about 400,000 square meters, the mosque can accommodate up to 1 million worshippers.

4. Guardians of the Prophet's Tomb

The tomb of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has always been under strict protection. Historically, the guardians were known as the Kasim from Abyssinia. These individuals lived a sacred life, rarely speaking with others, and were responsible for safeguarding the keys to the holy chamber where the Prophet's tomb is located.

With new regulations introduced by the Saudi government, the Kasim were replaced by the Askar, official security personnel tasked with protecting the Prophet's Mosque.

5. The Myth of a Corpse on the Green Dome

There is a myth that a man's corpse lies atop the Green Dome. According to Sheikh Al-Zubaidi, about 90 years ago, a man attempted to climb the dome to destroy it. A beam of light from the sky struck him down, burying him on the dome.

This story has been debunked as a false rumor. There is no human burial on the Green Dome. The protruding part on the dome is actually a window.

The Green Dome of the Prophet's Mosque is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of deep historical and spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. From its construction to its golden ornamentation, every detail of the dome adds to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the mosque.

For more insights into Islamic history and mosque architecture, feel free to explore the official site of the Prophet's Mosque or read credible history books. Share your thoughts and experiences about visiting the Prophet's Mosque in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with friends and family to spread this valuable knowledge.