Among the scared sites in Mina, none holds the same reverence as Masjid al-Khayf, often
remembered as the mosque of the Prophets. This mosque has been honored in Islamic
tradition as a place where seventy prophets are said to have prayed. Known locally as مسجد
الخيف, it stands as an important mosque in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, treasured by
pilgrims for its profound historical significance. From the time of the Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) to the present, it has remained a beacon of worship where believers gather to
glorify Allah during the scared rites of Hajj and Umrah.
Location in Mina and Surroundings
The al-Khayf mosque is situated in the south of mina, nestled against a mountain in the
south, close to the smallest jamraat where Muslims perform symbolic stoning, Unlike the
Masjid al-haram in Makkah or the mosques in Arafat. It is directly linked with the rites of
pilgrimage in mecca. Its location near the smallest Jamraat makes it central to the
movements of millions of worshippers. The mosque itself has become a landmark for those
staying in Mina, serving as a spiritual anchor during the Hajj season.
Historical Roots of Masjid al-Khayf
The mosque was built in the early centuries of Islam, marking its place in Islamic history.
Early narrations describe how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once prayed
here, and companions such as Abdullah bin Abbas and Yazeed bin Aswad recalled
moments of salah in its precincts. Reports even mention Abdur-Rahman bin Mu’adh
narrating that the Prophet (PBUH) addressed Muslims in Mina, while others such as bin
Muadh are remembered in the mosque’s tradition. Stories of the Ansar, Abu, and other
companions add depth to its past. Over time, rulers expanded it, and successive dynasties
ensured its preservation. Later, the imam of the mosque became a symbolic figure, guiding
Muslims through prayers and reminders of devotion.
Religious Significance in Hajj
Masjid al-Khayf has always been linked to the hajj pilgrimage. During the Days of
Tashreeq, pilgrims gather in Mina, many offering fajr salah within this masjid. It was here
that the Prophet (pbuh) once instructed the muhajireen to set their camps and remain
steadfast in worship. According to hadith, not only did the Prophet himself pray here, but
also seventy other prophets and many other prophets who traveled through the land.
Accounts state that some companions even performed prayer alongside him, reinforcing
its aura as a mosque of the prophets. This direct link to the Hajj with the Prophet
highlights its sanctity, with narrations preserved in Arabic hadiths that have shaped the
mosque’s identity.
Architectural Design and Features
The structure of Masjid al-Khayf today is both historic and modern. It contains four
minarets, spacious domes, and large prayer halls that can accommodate thousands of
pilgrims. Its prayer area includes a section of the masjid where imams lead worship,
recalling the moments when the Nabi himself guided his followers. The facilities are
advanced, with 410 air conditioning units ensuring comfort for worshippers, and a
cooling system spread across the halls. Records mention 410 as a significant installation
figure. The mosque also offers shaded courtyards behind the mosque, designed to manage
the crowds. Compared to its early form, today’s mosque represents the care of the Saudi
Arabia government in enhancing an crucial mosque for global worshippers.
Masjid al-Khayf and the Prophet’s Legacy
This mosque is inseparable from the legacy of the Messenger of Allah. He is remembered for
leading prayers here, including fajar salah with the Messenger of Allah, which
companions like Ibn Abbas and Yazeed bin Aswad narrated. It is also tied to events where
he instructed the muhajireen and the banu tribes to remain disciplined in Mina. In some
accounts, he delivered guidance here just as he did with his sermon on the plain of Arafat.
Worshippers today recall these narrations when they perform prayer, recognizing that this
mosque connects directly to the footsteps of the Messenger of Allah, making it one of the
most important mosques of Islamic devotion.
Modern-Day Experience for Pilgrims
For today’s pilgrim, visiting Masjid al Khayf is an emotional and spiritual experience.
During the Hajj season, worshippers gather inside to offer Dhuhr, Asr, and fajr prayers,
often reflecting on the hadiths about the khayf that he performed here. Many take
inspiration from narrations about performed hajj with the Prophet, cherishing the sense
of walking the same grounds. The site is equipped with services from the kingdom of Saudi
Arabia, with caretakers ensuring cleanliness and security. With its location close to the
smallest jamarat, it remains an active center of devotion where the spirit of the Messenger
of Allah (PBUH) and the legacy of seventy prophets are kept alive.
Conclusion: Lasting Legacy and Importance
Masjid al Khayf is more than just a building; it is a sanctuary where prophets prayed,
where hadith lives on, and where the memory of Hajj and Umrah continues to inspire. It
stands among the greatest landmarks, alongside the Kaaba and al-Haram. For Muslims
across the world, this mosque is a symbol of unity, faith, and heritage. Whether one recalls
the sermon on the plain, the muhajireen to set up camp, or the accounts of seventy
other prophets, it remains an enduring testament to the spiritual journey that binds
believers to Allah. Its preservation and prominence today confirm why it continues to be a
vital house of worship in the heart of Mina, ensuring its story is carried forward for
generations.
Pilgrims visiting Masjid al-Khayf can reach this historic mosque and other nearby sacred sites in Mina smoothly with Alfalah Journey’s thoughtfully arranged Ziyarat services, allowing them to focus on reflection, history, and devotion without worrying about the logistics of moving between key locations.
