The History of the Holy City
of Makkah

Holy City of Makkah

Makkah (also known as Mecca) is a city in Saudi Arabia’s Hejaz area. It is considered Islam’s holiest city and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Holy City of Makkah was founded by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (A), who brought his son Ishmael (Ismail) (A) and his wife Hagar (A) to this barren valley upon Allah’s command.

Pre-Islamic Era:

Origins:

Makkah was founded by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (A), who brought his son Ishmael (Ismail) (A) and his wife Hagar (A) to this barren valley upon Allah’s command.

Kaba:

The Kaaba, a cube-shaped building located in the center of the Masjid al-Haram, is the holiest site in Islam. The cube-shaped structure (the word  Kabbah means “cube” in Arabic) is roughly 50 feet (15 meters) high, and it is about 35 by 40 feet (10 by 12 meters) at its base. Built from gray stone and marble, its corners are approximately aligned with the cardinal directions. Inside, there are only three pillars that uphold the roof, along with a few suspended lamps made of silver and gold. Throughout most of the year, the Kaaba is draped in a large black brocade cloth, the Kiswah.

Islamic Era of Makkah:

Birth of Hazrat Muhammad (SAW):

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW), ALLAH’s last messenger, was born in Makkah on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, 570 CE. He received his first revelation at the age of 40, which marked the start of Islam.
Over the centuries, the life and times of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) have continued to serve as significant foundation among the Muslim community. It is in the celebration of his birth that we are reminded about Allah’s mercy and how much possible is to have positive change within ourselves.

The Hijrah Makkah to Madinah:

Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) and his followers moved from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This is known as Hijra. Faced with oppression in Makkah, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his followers embarked on the momentous journey to Madinah in what is termed as the Hijrah within the chronicles of Islam during the year 622 A.C.E an era which proved to be crucial in the development of Islam as a religion. This was a turn of events that not only secured the survival of a vulnerable Muslim community but also established the basics of the Islamic state conceivably at its later days at Madinah.

630 CE:

After series of battles, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) return to Makkah and removes the Kaaba idols with his followers.

The Conquest of Makkah:

In 630 CE, Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) and his army conquered Makkah. After a long time of trials and tribulations, counting fights and arrangements, the pivotal occasion of the Victory of Makkah was in 630 CE. Prophet Muhammad (SAW), leading an army of Muslims, tenderly entered Makkah, signaling a triumph of faith and reconciliation. The icons including the Kaaba were removed, reestablishing its monotheistic ideals.

Pilgrimage:

The annual journey of Hajj, which must be done by all Muslims who can manage it every year, is to Mecca, Saudi Arabia homeland of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Expansion:

Over time Makkah City, capital of Saudi Arabia and holiest city in Islam has expanded tremendously. Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) is one of the most important religious sites in Islam and has been enlarged severally.

Development:

Under the rule of various Islamic empires, Mecca witnessed significant expansion and development. The city became a center of Islamic scholarship and pilgrimage, attracting millions of Muslims from around the world.

Modern Era of Makkah:

Saudi Rule:

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia takes over Mecca in the year 1925 after the Ottoman Empire crumbles. Saudi administration has done many modernization works in this town such as enlarging the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) as well as infrastructure developments to accommodate more tourists in Mecca.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Makkah, or Makkah city, faces significant challenges alongside its revered status as the holiest city in Islam. The Holy City of Makkah is not only a focal point for millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah but also deals with an ever-increasing influx of visitors each year. This growth brings about environmental concerns, such as waste management and pollution, which strain the city’s resources. Additionally, the Makkah city administration must balance modern development with the need to conserve its historical and cultural identities, ensuring that sacred sites are preserved for future generations.

Furthermore, Makkah provides unique opportunities for fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting a deeper understanding of Islam among people worldwide. Efforts to protect and respect the heritage of the Holy City of Makkah are essential for maintaining its spiritual significance while addressing the modern challenges it faces.

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Conclusion:

Makkah’s history is a fascinating tapestry made from strands of faith, tradition, and transformation. Mecca has played an important role in Islamic history, beginning with Prophet Ibrahim and the construction of the Kaaba and ending with the birth of Prophet Muhammad and the revelation of the Quran. The migration to Madinah, the conquering of Mecca, and the yearly pilgrimage of Hajj are all key events in the city’s history. Makkah continues to adapt in response to challenges and opportunities, balancing modernization with the preservation of its sacred legacy and serving as a global beacon of interfaith communication and understanding.