Quba Mosque is the first mosque in Islam, and Jabal Uhud witnessed the martyrs' sacrifice. Here is their merit and visiting etiquette.
During their stay in Madinah, umrah and hajj pilgrims are usually taken to visit several historic sites around the city. Two of the best-known destinations are Masjid Quba and Jabal Uhud. Both hold historical value and merit worth understanding before visiting.
Masjid Quba is the first mosque built in the history of Islam. It was founded by the Prophet (peace be upon him) together with his companions when he first arrived in the Quba area during the migration from Makkah to Madinah. The Qur'an even mentions a mosque founded on piety from the very first day, which many scholars say refers to Masjid Quba. Its merit is remarkable: a hadith states that whoever performs wudu at home, then comes to Masjid Quba and prays two rak'ah there, has a reward like that of an umrah. For this reason, many pilgrims take the time to offer two voluntary rak'ah in this calm and pleasant mosque.
Jabal Uhud is a large mountain to the north of Madinah that witnessed the Battle of Uhud, one of the important battles in the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him). In this battle many companions fell as martyrs, including the Prophet's uncle, Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib. At the foot of the mountain lie the graves of the martyrs of Uhud, often visited. The Prophet (peace be upon him) himself expressed his love for Uhud, so this place holds a special position in the hearts of Muslims.
When visiting these two places, pilgrims should observe some etiquette. At Masjid Quba, use the opportunity to pray voluntary prayers and supplicate calmly, and keep the mosque clean and orderly. At Jabal Uhud and the martyrs' graves, greet the martyrs, pray for them, and draw lessons about sacrifice in defending the faith.
It must be stressed that visiting the martyrs' graves aims to pray for them and to remember death, not to ask anything of the deceased. All prayers and requests remain directed to Allah alone. Also avoid unprescribed practices, such as wiping the graves or believing in a special blessing in their stones.
By understanding the history and merit of Masjid Quba and Jabal Uhud, the visit in Madinah becomes more meaningful. Pilgrims do not merely visit but also reflect on the struggle of the first generation of Islam, returning with firmer faith and deeper love for the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions.
One sunnah connected to Masjid Quba is the Prophet's habit (peace be upon him) of visiting it regularly, especially on Saturdays, whether on foot or riding, and then praying two rak'ah there. Pilgrims who have the chance can follow this good practice during their stay in Madinah.
In the Uhud area there is also a small hill known as the Archers' Hill (Jabal Rumat). From this hill an important lesson of the Battle of Uhud can be drawn, namely the importance of obedience to the leader's command and the danger of hastily chasing worldly gain. When some of the archers left their positions, the tide of the battle turned. This story teaches discipline, patience, and sincerity. By reflecting on the history behind each place, the visit in Madinah does not remain a mere physical outing, but becomes a life lesson that guides pilgrims to become better people.
