Situated in the southeastern part of Masjid e-Nabawi, Rawdah Mubarak holds immense reverence as one of the most esteemed mausoleums worldwide. This sacred site is adorned by an exquisite golden grille and serves as the final resting place for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), alongside two cherished companions and the initial two Caliphs of Islam, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA) and Umar bin Al-Khattab (RA)
Rawdah Mubarak, a resting place within the southeastern part of Masjid e-Nabawi, holds immense reverence globally. This sacred tomb is adorned with an exquisite golden grill and is the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as well as two esteemed companions and the initial two Caliphs of Islam, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA) and Umar bin Al-Khattab (RA).
What Is Rawdah Mubarak?
In the rich tapestry of Islamic history, Rawdah Mubarak holds a special place. Originally, it served as the cherished abode, known as hujra, of the esteemed Aisha (RA). Moreover, it was the very house where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sought solace during his final days.
Commonly referred to as al-Rawdah al-Shareef, which translates to “The Exalted Garden,” Rawdah Mubarak holds great significance as part of the Riyadhul Jannah, also known as the Gardens of Paradise. This sacred space encompasses the area between the residences of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), extending towards the Minbar, or Pulpit, of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah SWT said, “The area between my house and my pulpit is one of the gardens of Paradise.” (Bukhari)
Hence, while paying a visit to Rawdah Mubarak, it is highly advisable to engage in two Rakat Nafl prayers, preferably positioned behind the revered Pillar of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her).
Additionally, take the opportunity to earnestly supplicate for both your own well-being and that of your cherished ones. Seek forgiveness near the Pillar of Repentance, and generously send an abundance of blessings upon the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).
Inside of the Rawdha Mubarak
The Sacred Chamber is divided into two distinct areas. Within the Rawdah Mubarak lie the resting places of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA), and Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA). On the other hand, outside this sacred space reside the boundaries of the dwelling once belonging to Fatima (RA).
Here, you have the opportunity to respectfully come into contact with and appreciate the cherished garments of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), displayed with utmost reverence upon the wall.
Who’s Buried Next to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?
Next to the burial site of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), you will find the final resting places of two remarkable individuals who were not only his closest companions but also the first two Caliphs of Islam. These esteemed figures are Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (May Allah be pleased with him) and Umar ibn al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him).
Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA), before his demise, entrusted his will to his beloved daughter Aisha (RA). Among his heartfelt requests was to be laid to rest beside the honorable Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (RA) peacefully passed away at the age of 63 during the 13th year after Hijrah.
A Persian slave named Firoz also known as Abu Lulu stabbed Caliph Umar bin Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) while he was performing the Fajr prayer. Abu Lulu committed suicide after that.
Shortly before his demise, Umar (RA) said to his son Abdullah: “Go to the mother of the believers, Aisha (رضي الله عنها) and say, ‘Umar bin Al-Khattab sends his greetings to you,’ and request her to allow me to be buried with my two companions.”
To this, Aisha (RA) responded: “I had the idea of having this place for myself but today I will give preference to him over myself.”
Abdullah returned and said to his father Umar (RA): “She has allowed you (to be buried there).” On that Umar (RA) said: “Nothing was more important to me than to be buried in that (sacred) place.”
He passed away during the first day of Muharram in the year 24 AH, having served as Caliph for an impressive span of ten and a half years.
Precautions to Take When Visiting The Rawdha Mubarak
When visiting this magnificent Mosque, it’s important to remember that seeking blessings (barakah) from any element of the Prophet’s Mosque, including the walls, doors, pillars, mihraab, or minbar, through kissing or touching them, is not allowed. Additionally, seeking blessings from the Prophet’s hujrah (chamber) by kissing, touching, or rubbing one’s clothes against it, or even circling around it, is also not permitted. If anyone engages in any of these actions, it is advisable to sincerely repent and refrain from repeating them.
Conclusion
When pilgrims travel to Makkah, Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah, they often prioritize a visit to the Rawdah Mubarak in the esteemed Masjid e-Nabawi (Mosque of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)) in Madinah. This sacred site holds immense significance as it is situated between the residences of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Aisha (RA), with the Prophet’s (SAW) Minbar (pulpit) nearby. The Rawdah Mubarak spans an impressive area of 15 meters in width and 22 meters in length. Its serene atmosphere and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims seeking a truly enriching experience during their spiritual journey.