Masjid al-Ji’ranah (مسجد الجعرانة) is a historic mosque located near Makkah, in Saudi Arabia. It is one of the most designated miqat points for individuals who intend to perform Hajj or Umrah. The mosque holds deep historical significance as it marks the location where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ entered into the state of ihram after returning from the Battle of Hunayn. Today, it continues to serve as a miqat point for pilgrims residing within the area of the haram and for visitors travelling from nearby regions.
Historical background
The history of Masjid al-Ji’ranah is closely tied to the events following the battle with the hawazin and Thaqif points. After the victory, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ oversee the distribution of war spoils, which included a substantial amount of war booty. This distribution took place at Ji’ranah, where Muslims and companions such as Abu Bakr, Abbaas, and Abdullah bin Abbaas were present. The Prophet ﷺ gave large shares to new Muslims to strengthen their faith, while the Ansar observed his generosity, an act that reflected the Quran emphasis on justice and compassion.
The mosque that marks the location reflects this pivotal movement in Islamic history. It is also known as Masjid e Ji’ranah or مسجد الجعرانة, with Arabic inscriptions highlighting its historical and spiritual role, serving as a reminder of the Prophet’s role as both a spiritual guide and leader in managing the affairs of the community.
The Prophet ﷺ at Ji’ranah
The Prophet ﷺ entered ihram after returning from the battle, making Ji’ranah a unique site where worship and history intersect. Following the battle of Hunayn in 8 AH, he stayed in the area for several nights. A woman from the Quraysh approached him, requesting the return of her property, and he responded with fairness. Later, he proceeded to Makkah for Umrah, completing the rites with his companions.
This event made Ji’ranah a masjid that represents the location where the Prophet entered into the state of ihram coming back victorious. The role of Masjid al Ji’ranah in Islamic history is thus inseparable from these significant moments.
Role as a Miqat Point
Masjid al Ji’ranah is not only remembered for its history but also serves as the miqat point for people beginning their scared pilgrimage. It is one of the most designated point for individuals residing within area of the haram who intend to perform Hajj and Umrah. People enter the scared place Ihrām at this mosque before proceeding to Makkah for Umrah. The mosque serves as a place where the spiritual journey begins.
It allows individuals residing within the area or those returning from nearby regions to prepare for their scared regions. This role as a miqat point makes it an essential part of the religious landscape near Makkah.
Architectural & Cultural Features
Masjid al Ji’ranah is a modest yet spiritually significant mosque near Makkah. It features a prayer hall, open courtyard, and shaded areas for pilgrims to rest or offer supplications. The mosque’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, allowing pilgrims to assume Ihrām for Umrah comfortably. Walls often display Quranic verses in Arabic, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Narration in Arabic (optional addition): عَنْ عَبْدِ اللهِ بْنِ عَبَّاسٍ: «كَانَ رَسُولُ اللهِ ﷺ يُصَلِّي فِي الْجِعْرَانَةِ وَيُعَلِّمُ النَّاسَ دُعَاءَهُمْ» (Abdullah bin Abbas reported: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ prayed at Ji’ranah and taught the people their supplications.”)
Location and Surroundings
Masjid al Jiranah is located northeast of Makkah, close to Jabal Thawr, and not far from Madinah. Its proximity toAl Masjid al-Haram makes it convenient for those travelling from nearby areas. The Jiranah mosque is situated in a location that combines accessibility with spiritual depth, reminding pilgrims of its historical context.
The masjid provides as a landmark, guiding pilgrims who wish to enter Ihrām for Umrah. It continues to be a site of application, reflection and preparation for the rites of worship.
The Distribution of Booty After Hunayn
Following the Battle of Hunayn, a substantial amount of war booty was gathered. The Prophet ﷺ oversaw the division of it at Ji’ranah with wisdom and fairness. He gave large shares to new Muslims and to companions like Abdullah bin Abbaas, strengthening the bonds of the community. This moment also highlighted the justice of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, while some Ansaar initially questioned the distribution, the Prophet explained his reasoning, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who had recently embraced Islam.
His words touched their hearts and they remained steadfast in their loyalty. The event at Ji’ranah thus not become only about entering Ihrām for Umrah but also about unity, generosity and the growth of the Muslims Ummah.
Architecture and Present Significance
Today, Masjid al Ji’rranah stands as a modern masjid close to Makkah, rebuilt to accommodate the needs of pilgrims. While the original structure no longer exists, the site retains its sanctity as the mosque provide both spiritual and practical purposes. The design of the current Masjid al Jiranah reflects traditional Islamic architecture with modern facilities. It ensures that pilgrims can comfortably enter into ihram and prepare for their journey to Al Masjid al-Haram.
Companions and Legacy
At Jiranah, many companions witnessed the Prophet ﷺ enter Ihrām. Abu Bakr, Abbaas, and Abdulla bin Abbas were among those present. Their accounts preserved the memory of this site for future generations.
The holy masjid also symbolizes the unity of the community. It was at Ji’ranah that the Prophet ﷺ managed both the distribution of war spoils and the preparation for worship, showing the balance between leadership and devotion.
Conclusion
Masjid al-Ji’ranah remains one of the most significant mosques near Makkah, marking the site where the Prophet ﷺ entered the state of Ihrām after the Battle of Hunayn in 8 AH. It also witnessed the fair and wise distribution of booty, reflecting the Messenger’s ﷺ justice and devotion. Today, pilgrims continue to honor this mosque as a miqat point for Hajj and Umrah, connecting centuries of faith with present-day worship.
Many travelers, guided by thoughtfully organized arrangements like those by Alfalah Journey, can explore Masjid al-Ji’ranah along with nearby sacred sites such as Masjid Shajarah, gaining a deeper understanding of early Islamic history and the Prophet’s ﷺ enduring legacy while experiencing a spiritually enriching journey.
