Introduction:
Masjid-e-Nimrah is a historic mosque located in Arafat, near Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon during his last Hajj in 10 AH (632 CE). This sacred mosque holds great religious significance, especially on the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah) when it is filled with millions of Hajj pilgrims.
Historical and Religious Importance:
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stopped at this location on the Day of Arafah and led the congregational Zuhr and Asr prayers combined before delivering his Farewell Sermon, one of the most important messages in Islamic history.
- The sermon emphasized unity, human rights, and the completion of Islam as a religion.
- It is one of the most important landmarks of Hajj, as prayers are offered here before the pilgrims proceed with Wuquf-e-Arafah.
Architectural Features:
- The mosque is one of the largest in Makkah, with a capacity of over 350,000 worshippers.
- It features multiple domes, minarets, and an extensive prayer area to accommodate the huge number of pilgrims during Hajj.
- The mihrab (prayer niche) and mimbar (pulpit) mark the spot where the Prophet (PBUH) delivered his sermon.
- A significant portion of the mosque lies outside the boundary of Arafat, meaning only those praying inside the Arafat section fulfill the requirement of standing in Arafat.
Significance During Hajj:
- On 9th Dhul-Hijjah, the Imam of Masjid-e-Haram delivers the Hajj sermon from this mosque before leading the Zuhr and Asr prayers combined.
- Pilgrims listen to the sermon, offer their prayers, and then proceed to the Plain of Arafat for Wuquf, the most critical part of Hajj.
- The mosque remains closed for the rest of the year and is only opened for prayer on the Day of Arafah..
Visiting Masjid-e-Nimrah:
- Best Time to Visit: The mosque is open only on the Day of Arafah during Hajj.
- Spiritual Experience: Standing in the mosque and praying at the same place where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his final sermon is an incredibly moving experience for every Muslim.
Conclusion
Masjid-e-Nimrah is a symbol of Islamic unity, guidance, and spirituality. Its connection to the Farewell Sermon and the most sacred rituals of Hajj makes it a site of deep historical and religious significance, reminding Muslims of the core principles of Islam.