For Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, Raudhah is a must-visit destination while in the Holy Land. Known as the Garden of Paradise, Raudhah is a revered site believed to be a special place for prayers.
Located in the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid Nabawi) in Medina, it holds immense historical and spiritual significance in Islam. This article delves into the virtues of Raudhah, its history, and offers tips for pilgrims who wish to pray there.
Location and History of Raudhah
Raudhah is situated between the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) pulpit and his living quarters in Masjid Nabawi. According to a hadith narrated by Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "Between my house and my pulpit is a garden from the gardens of Paradise." (Sahih Muslim). This area spans approximately 53 cubits or around 26.5 meters.
In the early days of his preaching, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to deliver sermons standing on a date-palm trunk before his companions built a pulpit for him. Jabir (RA) narrated that after the pulpit was made, the Prophet heard the trunk crying, lamenting the loss of the dhikr (remembrance of Allah) that was once made on it. "The Prophet (SAW) said, 'It weeps for missing the dhikr that used to be made on it.'" (Sahih Bukhari).
Virtues of Raudhah
A Special Place for Prayers
Raudhah is renowned as a special place for prayers. In a hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "A prayer in my mosque (Masjid Nabawi) is better than a thousand prayers in any other mosque except Masjid al-Haram. A prayer in Masjid al-Haram is better by a hundred thousand times than a prayer in any other mosque," (Narrated by Ahmad, Ibn Khuzaymah, and Al-Hakim).
A Place of Blessing
Raudhah is one of the most revered spots, with an area of about 330 square meters. Hajj and Umrah pilgrims are willing to endure the crowd to perform two rak'ahs of prayer and supplicate in this blessed spot. Scholars refer to Raudhah as the Garden of Paradise because the deeds performed here will lead the doer to the gardens of Paradise.
Historical Pillars in Raudhah
Raudhah contains several historical pillars, each with its own significance and history:
- Pillar of Aisha (Usthuwanah Aisha): Located in the center of Raudhah, this pillar is where Aisha (RA) often prayed.
- Pillar of Repentance (Usthuwanah al-Tawbah): This pillar is known as the spot where the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) made repentance.
- Pillar of the Bed (Usthuwanah al-Sarir): Situated east of the Pillar of Repentance, this pillar is associated with the Prophet's sleeping place.
- Pillar of Guarding (Usthuwanah al-Haras): Located north of the Pillar of the Bed, this pillar was used by the companions as a security post to guard the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
- Pillar of Delegations (Usthuwanah al-Wufud): Positioned furthest north, this pillar marks the spot where the Prophet received important guests and dignitaries.
Tips for Praying in Raudhah
- Mental and Spiritual Preparation: Before entering Raudhah, prepare yourself with sincere intentions and complete submission to Allah (SWT).
- Choose the Right Time: Select a less crowded time, such as after the obligatory prayers, to avoid the throng.
- Respect Fellow Pilgrims: Show respect and avoid jostling with other pilgrims to ensure a smooth prayer experience.
- Recite Powerful Supplications: Utilize your time in Raudhah to recite the supplications taught by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), including seeking forgiveness and personal needs.
Conclusion
Raudhah is not just a historical site but a deeply revered place for prayers. By understanding its virtues and history, Hajj and Umrah pilgrims can make the most of their spiritual journey by praying at this blessed spot.
Remember to respect fellow pilgrims and pray with sincerity to gain the utmost blessings. For those who haven't had the chance yet, keep praying and striving for the opportunity to visit this Garden of Paradise one day.
For more information about the history of the Prophet's Mosque, you can read our article on The History of the Prophet's Mosque. If you want to learn more about the virtues of prayers in sacred places, visit The Virtues of Praying in Sacred Places.
0 Comments