Ramazan in Madinah: what a feeling it is!
This refers to the month that is just here. Are you looking for solace and purification of soul during this holy month. There is only one destination for Muslims all over the world and fortunate amongst us are those that reap the most of what this month has to offer one would definitely like to be in the city of light and glory and that city is, “Al-Madinah al Munawarah ,”–-a believer's dream destination, a great place for the deprived souls, and broken hearts. Masjid Al-Nabawi and Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah holds a special place for all believers. Along with the fasting, prayer and spending the Ramadan here with much devotion cannot simply be forgotten. The pull of the Haram, the Sanctuary, is everywhere. As the pilgrims approach near the Holy city they have thoughts only for the Prophet’s Mosque. Well decorated shops and buildings pass by, visitors come here for one place, and for one personality alone----our beloved Prophet –Peace be upon him. Whenever we approach our beloved’s Green Dome of Peace and Felicity, the heart feels lighter upon wave after wave, drowned in a love so awesome that all else fades into oblivion and numbness. Visitors who have not set foot in Medina before are often in tears on the first sight of Green dome. Visiting such a sacred place full of awe and reverence, a dream is accomplished, hearts softened, and tongues vibrate involuntarily with dhikr (remembrance) and durood (recitations in praise of prophet), ocean of tears emerge from the eyes. The proximity is overwhelming for some pilgrims, whose humility forces them to sit at a respectful distance, perhaps some way down the mosque. Others cannot sit too close. Everywhere, there is worship, bowing and prostration, the mellifluous murmuring of the Qur’an, and wordless contemplation. `Enter it in peace and safety’, says the inscriptions in Arabic above all the entrances, reminding the blessings of Allah (swt) on this blest place. Prayer in the Rawda (Riyazul Jannat) is especially sought after. A hadith affirms that ‘the space between my grave and my pulpit is one of the Meadows of Paradise.’ Here, listening to the awesome gravity of Allah’s word, the continuity with the blessed past is felt intensely. If there is one month that can be designated the month of personal piety, then it has to be Ramadan. It is the month for striving against oneself and conquering one’s will. And how honored are the chosen inhabitants of this ground.The Ramadan in Al Madinah al Munawarah is very special and unique, light upon light and recitation of the Noble Qur’an during taraweeh, heart breaking standing supplications penetrates our souls when darkness fades away and vanishes from people’s souls once they repent with tearful eyes to Allah; special midnight prayer during last ten days humbles your burdened heart with a feeling if having worshiped for more than a thousand months and wiped of all wrongdoings! Ramadan in Madinah is especially marked by a huge influx of visiting Muslims from all over the world. The Masjid Al-Nabawi is jam packed during the month and entertains a very warming and welcoming environment within its walls. Madinah remains a very buzzing city throughout the month.Anyone who hasn’t seen the Ramadan of Madinah Munawarah, has missed something he will remember all his life. Just take some time and seek blessings here in the month of all blessings.
Dr.Fiaz Fazili
Madina, KSA
