Pilgrims Embark on Spiritual Ziyara Across Sacred Madinah

Madinah, Saudi Arabia — As pilgrims continue their sacred journey in the revered city of Madinah, many are partaking in Ziyara—an enriching spiritual tour that offers a profound connection to the roots of Islam and the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Ziyara, a non-obligatory but spiritually recommended aspect of the pilgrimage, invites believers to visit and reflect at historical Islamic landmarks associated with the Prophet’s life and the early Muslim community.

Among the most iconic sites visited was the Quba Mosque, widely revered as the first mosque established by Prophet Muhammad and his companions following their migration to Madinah. Pilgrims described the visit as deeply moving, offering a glimpse into the Prophet’s foundational role in building the Islamic community.

The tour also included the Masjid al-Qiblatain, a significant location where the divine instruction to redirect the Qibla—from Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Makkah—was first revealed. Pilgrims observed this spiritual transformation with awe and reverence.

Venturing further out, pilgrims ascended to Mount Uhud, a historic battlefield where the early Muslims fought with valor during the Battle of Uhud. At its base lies the sacred Martyrs’ Cemetery, the final resting place of 70 companions of the Prophet. Pilgrims paused to offer prayers and reflect on the immense sacrifices made in defense of the Islamic faith.

Another key stop on the Ziyara was the Well of Ghars, intimately linked to the Prophet’s life. As narrated in Islamic tradition, this was the well from which the Prophet preferred his body be washed after death. Nigerian resident Ahmed Hassan, who has lived in Madinah for over 15 years, shared insights on the well’s continued significance, explaining that the Prophet regularly drank from it and that Sayyidina Ali and other companions fulfilled his final wish using its waters.

Sharing their personal reflections, Haruna Saidu, a pilgrim from Gombe, Nigeria, described the visitation as spiritually fulfilling, especially his prayer at the martyrs’ cemetery. Fellow pilgrim Mohammed Kumo, also from Gombe State, expressed that the journey was a humbling reminder of the faith and perseverance of early Muslims.

Ali Drame, a pilgrim from Senegal, noted the unity and shared devotion that the Ziyara fostered, describing it as an inspiring and unifying experience that transcends national boundaries.

Offering a religious perspective, Mallam Yahya Garba, Chief Imam of Area 10 Mosque in Abuja and a member of NAHCON’s Ulama Committee, emphasized that while Ziyara is not compulsory, it remains a spiritually enriching and commendable practice. He encouraged pilgrims to maximize their stay in Madinah by seeking spiritual growth, minimizing distractions, and exercising financial discipline.

By Taiwo Olatinwo | May 18, 2025