Mecca, being the most sacred city in Islam, holds a special place in the hearts of the Muslims. Its significance lies in it being the birthplace of our beloved prophet (P.B.U.H), Islam, and home to the holy Ka’aba. The spiritual and historical significance of this city attracts Muslims from around the globe to not only strengthen their faith but also become close to Allah Almighty. Each year many Muslims book Umrah Packages from the UK to perform Umrah and spend quality time in this sacred land. This article will shed light on the immense value of Mecca and its significance for Muslims. One of its sections will also talk about the prime role of Ka’aba and how it changed into its current state over time.
The Heart of Islam – Mecca
Mecca lies in a desert area in the west of Saudi Arabia. Its significance is matchless as it is called the heart of Islam and the Muslim faith. The last prophet of Islam, Muhammad (P.B.U.H), was born here, that alone is enough to amplify its value. Islam was born here and Allah Almighty commanded Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S) to construct His home, the holy Ka’aba here. Thus, it began to be called a holy land due to these prime reasons.
This place has a special aura that draws millions of Muslims every year to perform Hajj and Umrah. Its sanctity also reflects from the fact that the first-ever verses of the Quran were also revealed in this city in the cave of Hira. This cave is situated at a short distance from the Holy Ka’aba. Moreover, this city unites Muslims of different cultures and ethnicities from around the world and binds them together around the Ka’aba to worship the Oneness of Allah. In the holy Quran, Allah has called Mecca the “mother of cities” (Um-al-Qura).
The Historical Significance of Mecca
Mecca was always the focal point of trade and pilgrimage, even before the birth of Islam. The Quraish tribe used to take care of the Ka’aaba and its surrounding areas as they were the rulers at that time. Although idols were placed inside the Ka’aaba after it was originally built as a monotheistic worshipping center, it was still regarded as a refuge for Arabian tribes. After the birth of Islam, the value of Mecca increased. The prophet (P.B.U.H) received the first revelation here. Moreover, on the day of the conquest of Mecca, he cleansed the Ka’aba of all idols, restoring it as the worshipping place of only one God, Allah. Thus, the city was then known as the spiritual hub of the Islamic world.
The Role of Mecca in Hajj and Umrah
The holy Ka’aba is situated in the city of Mecca in the heart of Masjid al-Haram. Pilgrims have to travel here to perform Hajj and Umrah. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam which is the mandatory pilgrimage for Muslims who are physically healthy and financially able to take. Whereas, Umrah, called the lesser pilgrimage, is not obligatory. It is rather cheaper than Hajj but holds great rewards. This is the chance for the Muslims to purify themselves, connect with Allah Almighty, and renew their faith.
Journey to Mecca Before Modernization
In the older days, traveling to Mecca was very hard. It would take days and even months to reach. Pilgrims would have to face many hurdles on their way. They had to pack food and immense water to carry with them. But, this journey was also considered an act of devotion, rewards, and seeking blessings. Pilgrims would often travel in groups, like even today, but with less number of facilities and technological distractions, they would spend more time in contemplation on the way too. Hence, this journey provided them a chance to have a deeper and more personal engagement with the holy rituals and prepare for the Hajj and Umrah in advance.
The Holy House of Worship – Ka’aba
One of the most holy sites in Islam, the Ka’aba, was built by Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S) and his son Hazrat Ismail (A.S) on the commands of Allah. They built it to declare it as the center of monotheistic worshipping. As the time went by, it underwent many renovations. Every new ruler brought changes in its overall look. However, despite apparent changes, its value and spiritual essence remained the same. The Ka’aba is not just a cuboid-shaped stone structure that is covered in black silk, but it is a symbol of the unity of Muslims and the oneness of Allah. It is called the Qibla for Muslims, where every one of them turns their face to say prayers. Moreover, during Umrah and Hajj, Muslims circumambulate (Tawaf) around it to show devotion to their Creator.
How the Holy Ka’aba Changed Over Time?
Over centuries, Ka’aba underwent multiple reconstructions due to various factors like natural disasters, fires, and sometimes to strengthen its structure. Below is the general timeline of the events that resulted in its transformation.
In the pre-Islamic era, the Ka’aba was in the shape of a rectangle with no roof. Arabian tribes used to place their idols around it. When the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) won the conquest of Mecca, he abolished all the idols from the inside and declared it as the worshipping place of Allah only. Moreover, during his time, Ka’aba was heavily affected due to floods. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) took part in its reconstruction and also placed the black stone (Hajar e Aswad) with his blessed hands.
Moving a bit forward in history, in the time of the Umayyad and Abbasids, the walls of the Ka’aba were strengthened with stones, and a roof was also added to it to give it total protection. Furthermore, when Ottomans came to rule, they started the tradition of adding a cloth called Kiswah, on it to cover it as a symbol of respect. This tradition continues to date. In the modern era, now, the surroundings of Ka’aba have been expanded to accommodate a large number of pilgrims. Masjid al-Haram has also been built around it to enhance the experience of the pilgrims. All these changes did not undermine the value and spiritual significance of the Ka’aba. They only changed the outer appearance of it but kept its essence intact.
Final Thoughts
Mecca is a sacred city in the Islamic tradition and history and holds great value for Muslims. From being a simple city to transitioning into a modern-day landscape, it continues to be the source of utmost respect and devotion. Its value increases manifold due to Ka’aba which is the center of unifying Muslims despite their cultural and historical differences. As Mecca is more than just a destination, travelling here means a step towards reinforcing faith, reflecting on yourself, and building a deeper bond with the Creator. This holy land will continue to serve as the epitome of spiritual significance to the generations to come. So, are you ready to enter the holy city of Mecca to feel its spiritual magic and delve into its history? Book special Family Umrah Packages from the UK with Muslims Holy Travel at the best prices to enjoy your pilgrimage.
