Ḥujrah (حجرة)
Definition and Significance
The Ḥujrah (حجرة) refers to the “chamber” where the Prophet Muḥammad died and was subsequently buried. This chamber was originally the apartment allocated to ʿĀyishah, the Prophet’s beloved wife, in whose care Muḥammad spent his final moments. The Ḥujrah holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide and is situated in the Masjid al-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, in al-Madīnah (Medina).
Etymology
- Arabic Translation: حجرة (Ḥujrah)
- Turkish Translation: Hucura
The Arabic term “حجرة” (Ḥujrah) translates directly to “chamber” or “room,” highlighting its initial function as a private residential space for ʿĀyishah.
Historical Account and Structure
The Ḥujrah is located behind the Masjid al-Nabawi and is an irregular square of approximately fifty-five feet, separated from the main mosque by a passage of about twenty-six feet. Inside the Ḥujrah are the presumed tombs of:
- Prophet Muḥammad: Buried facing Makkah with his body stretched full length on his right side.
- Abū Bakr: The first Caliph, placed close behind Muḥammad with his face directed towards Muḥammad’s shoulder.
- ʿUmar: The second Caliph, situated similarly with respect to Abū Bakr.
Architectural Details
The tombs are encompassed by stone walls without apertures, or by strong planking, covered by a curtain similar to a four-post bed. The external railing is separated by a darker passage from the internal one and is designed with iron filigree, painted green and gold, forbidding male entry except through specific gates. These gates include:
- Bābu ʾl-Muwājihah (the Front Gate)
- Bābu Fāt̤imah (the Gate of Fāt̤imah)
- Bābu ʾsh-Shām (the Syrian Gate)
- Bābu ʾt-Taubah (the Gate of Repentance)
The Green Dome
Above the Ḥujrah is the iconic Green Dome, surmounted by a large gilt crescent originating from a series of globes. This dome is one of the most recognizable features of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Myths and Misconceptions
Among Christian historians, there existed a popular misconception that the coffin of the Prophet Muḥammad is suspended in the air. This notion has no basis in Islamic literature and is presumed to have originated from inaccurate artistic depictions sold to visitors.
Reformist views and Controversies
Muḥammad’s prayer to forbid idolatrous adoration of his tomb has influenced various Islamic reform movements. The Wahhābī movement, notable for its puritanical vision, deemed such veneration idolatrous. In 1804, the Wahhābī leader Saʿūd removed valuables from the tomb and denounced prayers directed at it as idolatrous.
Al-Rauẓah
The garden annexed to the tomb, known as ar-Rauẓah, is sometimes referred to as the tomb itself by various sources.
References in Islamic Literature
Abū Dāʾud narrates that al-Qāsim, the grandson of Abū Bakr, visited ʿĀyishah and requested to see the Prophet’s and his friends’ tombs. When the curtain was lifted, the graves were about a span high and covered with red gravel.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Hisham
- “The Sealed Nectar” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
- “Muhammad: Man and Prophet” by Adil Salahi
- “The History of al-Tabari” by Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari
Takeaways and Conclusion
- The Ḥujrah holds unparalleled historical and spiritual value in Islam, marking the final resting place of the Prophet.
- Its architectural features and reflective constraints highlight immense respect towards preserving its sacredness.
- The Wahhābī movement’s approaches underscore the dynamic and doctrinal debates surrounding veneration practices in Islamic history.
- Detailed accounts and literature enhance our understanding of this holy site’s significance.
Understanding the Ḥujrah is crucial in appreciating the sacred connections Muslims maintain with their historical and religious roots.
