Historical Significance and Architectural Marvels of Masjid al-Haram
Kaaba
Masjid al-Haram is one of the oldest and most important mosques in Islam. It is located in the holy city of Makkah and contains the sacred house of Allah Almighty in its vicinity. It is also known as the Forbidden Mosque because non-Muslims are prohibited. Another name for this mosque is the Grand Mosque. Millions of Muslims travel to this stunning mosque to perform Hajj and Umrah yearly.
Therefore, we cannot deny the historical significance and architectural marvels of Masjid al-Haram, considering its significant role in Islam and Islamic pillars. Islamic architecture is unmatched in its uniqueness and reflection of religion. It perfectly represents the unity of Muslims along with their aesthetic and religious consciousness.
Here are the important things you must know about the historical significance and architecture of the Grand Mosque.
Masjid Al-Haram
The history of Masjid al-Haram is as long as the earth itself and long before Islam was preached. According to the Holy Quran, the creation of Masjid al-Haram took place long before the creation of mankind. And this mosque is supposed to reflect the place of worship of angels in heaven. Therefore, it reflects al-Baytul-Ma’mur or the Place of Worship of Angels.
The construction of the Grand Mosque started in the 7th century under the rule of Caliph Omar ibn-Khattab. Due to the increase in the number of pilgrims, it was necessary to reconstruct the walls of the Holy Kaabah.
In 777, Abbasid Caliph Al Mahdi felt the need to demolish the whole mosque and rebuild it anew because he had a grid plan. Therefore, he built a more spacious mosque around the sacred house of Allah Almighty. Most of the buildings near this mosque date back to the year 1571.
But the number of pilgrims kept on increasing over time. And therefore, in 1950, the expansion of Masjid al-Haram took place to allow more pilgrims to perform Hajj and Umrah. The most recent renovation of this mosque is dated back to 2018. This time it expanded to 187 acres of land, making it the biggest mosque in the world that can host 2.5 million worshippers simultaneously.
Masjid al-Haram is undoubtedly the most stunning mosque in the world, with its golden structure and spacious area. Moreover, what enhanced the beauty of this mosque is the Holy Kaabah present in its vicinity. It is also a spiritual place for Muslims as they can feel the presence of Allah Almighty in every corner and inch of this marvellous mosque.
The Holy Kaabah stands in the middle of this mosque in all its glory. And what can be more magnificent and spiritual than millions of Muslims performing Tawaf around the symbolic house of Allah Almighty in unison? Well, this makes the mosque much more incredible than it already is.
The minarets of the Grand Mosque are illuminated at night with multiple lighting giving it the most ethereal look. Moreover, this mosque's architecture is unforgettable and is very close to the heart of believers in Islam. Muslims come in flooding this holy site day and night, all year around, asking for the forgiveness and blessings of Allah Almighty.
So, if you have gotten your December Umrah packages from the UK, you must get ready to experience this mosque's beauty and spirituality. Make sure you don't miss this chance to get closer to Allah Almighty and ask for forgiveness of all your mortal sins.
Grand Mosque is full of architectural marvels and sacred structures of great significance for the Muslims. Here are some of the most significant structures in Masjid al-Haram that have great religious and historic importance in Islam.
The most important building within this mosque is the Holy Kaabah. It is a cuboid-shaped structure present in the utmost centre of the Grand Mosque. This is the place or structure where Muslims worldwide direct to offer their daily prayers.
Another significant structure of the Grand Mosque is the sacred Black Stone. It is located in the eastern corner of the Holy Kaabah.
Rock is next to the Holy Kaabah, the Station of Ibrahim. This rock has the footprint of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
There are also the two most sacred hills near Masjid al-Haram. These are the hills where the wife of Hazrat Ibrahim ran in a state of distress to look for water for her son Ismail.
Another essential structure is the Zamzam well. The water of this well started flowing miraculously as a help to Hagar, Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s wife, from Allah Almighty. The water of this well keeps on flowing continuously.
If you are going to an Umrah, you must want to know about the historical significance and architectural marvels of Masjid al-Haram. It will allow you to explore Islamic history and feel the spirituality of being closer to Allah Almighty. Make sure you choose a reliable travel agency for Hajj and Umrah journey to spend a memorable time in Masjid al-Haram.