Al-Arqam (the house of Al-Aqram) was the home of Al-Aqram Abi al-Arqam رضي الله عنه, a young companion of the Prophet (RA). Situated near Mount Safa in Makkah, this humble house became the first secret Islamic place of worship and educational institute in Islam. It was here that the Messenger of Allah proclaimed his prophethood to a small group, teaching them the Quran, the salah, the foundations of faith in Islam while the wider Quraysh opposed the new message.
Conversions and Prophetic Teachings
Dar al Arqam was a turning point in the early prophetic mission. Many people embraced Islam here, listening to the words of Messenger of Allahﷺ as he recited the Qur’an and led them in prayer, Ammar and Suhayb were among the first to join, followed a few days later by others, One of the most powerful moments was when Umar ibn al-Khattab رضي الله عنه entered the house. Days later, after hearing the Qu’ran, he accepted Islam and the Muslim grew stronger. This historic event marked the transition from confidentiality to openly practicing Islam at the Kaaba and the central mosque.
Educational Role of Al-Arqam
The place was more than a shelter, it was an academic institute where the Prophet acted as the first shaykh and Imam, guiding his followers with wisdom. Companions learned not only the Quran and hadith but also how to perform salah and live by the Sunnah. It became the first Islamic institution, a true hub of praising and education.
Location and Legacy
Located near Masjid al-haram, al Arqam was eventually absorbed into the masjid expansion. Today pilgrims on Hajj and Umrah pass by its area when performing safa and marwah. The Bab al-Arqam gate of the masjid point towards its original site. For Muslims, it remains a reminder of the struggle of the first followers, the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad, and the resilience of partners like Ammar bin Yasir and Suhayb bin Sinan رضي الله عنهم.
Lasting Importance in Islam
Dar al-Arqam represents much more than a home, it represents the beginning of Islamic worship and learning. It was the place where partners, guided by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, found strength in unity and prepared themselves to spread Islam across the world.
Its importance lies in:
- Being the first Islamic educational organization.
- A center where the Qur’an and hadith were taught in secrecy.
- The site of many conversions, including that of Umar ibn al-Khattab.
- A model of how Islamic institutions should combine knowledge, devotion, and brotherhood.
For Muslims today, Dar al-Arqam remains a source of inspiration. It reminds us of the struggles of the earliest believers, the resilience of companions like Ammar bin Yasir and Suhayb رضي الله عنهم, and the guidance of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Truly, Dar al-Arqam is not only part of history but also a timeless lesson in the growth of the Islamic faith.
