LOCATED 275 miles north of Makkah, in the historic city of Madina is the Prophet's Mosque. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), said: “A Muslim should only set out (i.e. traveling with the intention of worship) for three mosques: The Holy Mosque (in Makkah), this Mosque of Mine and AI-Aqsa Mosque (in Jerusalem).” Visiting Madina Al-Munawwarah and the Prophet's Mosque is a Sunnah and may be performed before or after Haj. Having been reassured about his place of residence and belongings, it is advisable for the visitor to wash his body, use perfumes, put on his best clothes and proceed to the Prophet's Mosque, entering with his right foot first while uttering: “In the Name of Allah and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah. I seek refuge in Allah Almighty and in His noble countenance and His eternal power from Satan the Rejected.” “O Allah, open to me the doors of Your Mercy.” The visitor then heads to the sanctified Rawdah (Garden) of the Prophet, situated between the Prophet's grave and pulpit. He performs the two Raka'hs of “Tahiyyat AI-Masjid,” i.e. greeting to the Mosque. He then offers whatever supplications he wishes. The Messenger of Allah, (peace be upon him) said: “There is a garden in paradise situated between my grave and my pulpit.” The visitor then proceeds towards the Prophet's grave stopping three to four cubits away. He should not touch, kiss or circle the apartment containing the Prophet's grave. The visitor should utter in a low voice: “Greetings be to Allah's Messenger, Allah's Mercy and blessings be upon you.” Greetings be to Allah's Prophet. Prayers and peace be on thee the best of Allah's creation. Prayers and peace be on the leader of Messengers and Imam of the pious. I bear witness that you communicated the message, fulfilled the mission entrusted to you, sincerely advised the Ummah (Islamic nation) and you truly struggled in the way of Allah.” Then he moves about one cubit to his right side to face the grave of Abu Bakr Al-Siddeeq (may Allah be pleased with him) and says: “Greetings and peace be upon you, successor of the Messenger of Allah. Greetings to you, the companion of the Messenger of Allah in the cave (Al-Ghar).” “Greetings to you the companion of his travels. Peace be upon you his confidant. May Allah Grant you the best reward granted to a leader for the services he has rendered for the Ummah of His Prophet.” Then he moves about one cubit towards the grave of Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) and says: “Greetings be to you Emir of the Faithful. Greetings be to you who demolished the idols. May Allah grant you the best reward for the great services you have rendered to us (Muslims).” Then he turns toward Qiblah and prays for himself, his parents and all those who asked to be remembered there. – From the book “At the Service of Allah's Guests” by the Ministry of Information, Saudi Arabia. __
