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Masjid-e-Quba (مسجد قباء) is one of the most sacred and beloved mosques in Islamic history. Located in Quba, near Madinah, it holds a unique honor: it is widely recognized as the first mosque built in Islam. This blessed place is not only a historical monument but also a living Sunnah—regularly visited by pilgrims who come seeking peace, reward, and closeness to Allah.
History: Who Built Masjid-e-Quba and When?
Masjid-e-Quba was established in 622 CE, during the famous Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah.
The Prophet’s Arrival in Quba
Before entering the main city of Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ stopped at a small village called Quba. This moment became historic because it marked the beginning of the Islamic community’s foundation in the Madinah region.
The Foundation and Stay
The Prophet ﷺ stayed in Quba for several days. Historians mention a period ranging from 4 to 14 days, and during this stay, he lived at the house of Kulthum bin Hadm (رضي الله عنه).
Personal Involvement in Building the Mosque
One of the most inspiring aspects of Masjid-e-Quba’s history is that the Prophet ﷺ did not merely supervise—he personally participated in the work.
He carried stones and building material with his own blessed hands, working alongside:
The Muhajirun (those who migrated from Makkah)
The Ansar (the helpers of Madinah)
This powerful example teaches Muslims that leadership in Islam is not about status—it is about service, humility, and sacrifice.
The Great Blessings of Masjid-e-Quba
Masjid-e-Quba is not only famous because it was built first—it is also famous because of the immense reward linked to worship performed there.
1. Reward Equal to an Umrah
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever purifies himself (performs wudu) in his house, then comes to the mosque of Quba and prays in it, he will have a reward like that of Umrah.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
This Hadith is one of the main reasons pilgrims make sure to visit Masjid-e-Quba. The reward is huge, yet the act is simple.
2. The Saturday Sunnah
It was the regular habit of the Prophet ﷺ to visit Masjid-e-Quba every Saturday, either walking or riding, and offer prayer there.
Many Muslims today follow this Sunnah when they are in Madinah, visiting Quba on Saturday to revive the Prophet’s blessed routine.
3. Spiritual Peace and Historical Weight
Masjid-e-Quba was among the earliest places where the Prophet ﷺ prayed openly with his companions in the Madinah region. This makes it a place filled with:
tranquility
spiritual calm
historical greatness
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as deeply peaceful and emotional, especially when they remember that this was the beginning of Islam’s establishment in Madinah.
Architectural Evolution: From Simple Mud Bricks to a Grand Landmark
Over the centuries, Masjid-e-Quba transformed from a simple structure into a magnificent mosque visited by thousands daily.
Here is a clear comparison:
| Feature | Original (622 CE) | Modern (Today) |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Mud bricks, palm trunks, palm leaves | White marble, concrete, modern finishes |
| Capacity | A small group of companions | 20,000+ worshippers |
| Minarets | None | 4 tall minarets |
| Domes / Roof | Simple roofing | 56 white domes of varying sizes |
The King Salman Expansion
In recent years, a major expansion project has been launched under King Salman to further increase the capacity. After completion, Masjid-e-Quba is expected to accommodate over 66,000 worshippers, making it a major hub for the growing number of visitors in Madinah.
Important Tips for Visitors (To Gain the Umrah Reward)
If you are planning to visit Masjid-e-Quba and want to earn the reward mentioned in the Hadith, remember these Sunnah-based steps:
✅ 1. Perform Wudu at Home / Hotel
The Hadith specifically mentions purifying yourself in your house, meaning at your place of stay.
✅ 2. Pray Two Rak’ahs Inside the Mosque
The special reward is linked to praying inside Masjid-e-Quba. Many people pray two rak’ahs nafl, and also make dua.
✅ 3. Walk If Possible
Masjid-e-Quba is about 3.5 km from Masjid an-Nabawi. If your health allows, walking this distance is a beautiful way to follow the Sunnah and feel the spiritual journey.
Conclusion
Masjid-e-Quba is not just the first mosque in Islam—it is a powerful symbol of sincerity, unity, and the beginning of Muslim life in Madinah. Built in 622 CE during Hijrah, the mosque was founded by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ with his companions, and it remains one of the most blessed places on earth.
With the reward of Umrah promised for praying there after making wudu at home, and the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ visiting it every Saturday, Masjid-e-Quba continues to inspire Muslims across generations.
For every believer, visiting Masjid-e-Quba is not only a journey of history—it is a journey of faith, peace, and spiritual victory.
