A Journey to the First Mosque in Islam
When walking through the palm groves of Madinah, one structure stands out. It isn’t just the gleaming white minarets that catch the eye, but its profound place in history. Masjid Quba is more than a place of worship; it is a symbol of a new beginning and the first milestone of the Islamic era.
Whether you are planning a visit or exploring Islamic heritage, here is the story of this extraordinary mosque.
The First Stones: A Historical Beginning
The story of Masjid Quba begins in 622 CE. During the Hijrah (migration) from Makkah to Madinah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) stopped in the village of Quba.
The Prophet himself helped lay the first stones of what became the first mosque ever built. This site served as the spiritual and communal foundation for the Muslim community before they even entered the heart of Madinah.
The Spiritual Significance
Masjid Quba holds a unique status in Islamic tradition. The Prophet (peace be upon him) visited the mosque every Saturday—sometimes riding, sometimes walking—to offer prayers.
The spiritual rewards of visiting remain immense. According to a well-known Hadith:
“Whoever purifies himself in his house, then comes to Masjid Quba and offers a prayer in it, will have a reward like that of an ‘Umrah.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i)
For pilgrims, Masjid Quba is an essential stop. It offers a moment of deep reflection and a direct connection to the early days of the faith.
Architectural Evolution
Over the centuries, the mosque has transformed from a simple square of palm trunks and mud bricks into an architectural masterpiece.
- The Modern Expansion: Architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil completed the current building in the late 1980s.
- Design Elements: The structure features four tall minarets and 56 small domes. These elements provide natural light and ventilation to the prayer hall.
- The Courtyard: A beautiful open-air courtyard defines the interior. It uses a retractable roof to cool the space during the intense Hijaz heat.
The Quba Walkway
One of the most beautiful recent additions to Madinah is the Quba Front (Darb al-Sunnah). This pedestrian-only boulevard connects the Prophet’s Mosque to Masjid Quba. Lined with cafes, shops, and seating areas, the walkway allows visitors to follow the footsteps of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in a serene, modern environment.
Final Thoughts
Masjid Quba reminds us that every great journey begins with a single step—or in this case, a single stone. It represents the transition from struggle to a community built on peace and faith.
