A Garden from Paradise on Earth

🪷Pilgrims often affectionately call Riyazul Jannah the “Garden of Paradise.” This area represents the most sacred and sought-after section within Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Each year, millions of visitors yearn to pray within its hallowed boundaries, a testament to its immense spiritual significance.

What is Riyazul Jannah?

Riyazul Jannah is a small, distinct area between the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings be upon him) sacred chamber and his pulpit (Minbar Nabawi). The Prophet’s own words elevate this space:

“What is between my house and my minbar is one of the gardens of Paradise, and my minbar is upon my Hawd (cistern).” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Scholars interpret this profound Hadith in three ways:

1. It is a piece of the actual Paradise that Allah will transfer there on the Day of Judgment.
2. It is a place where good deeds lead the believer directly to Paradise.
3. It is a spot where Allah’s special mercy and tranquility descend, resembling a garden of Jannah.

The mosque authorities use unique green carpeting to mark this area, which contrasts sharply with the red carpets found elsewhere in the building.

History and the Sacred Pillars

This area originally served as an extension of the Prophet’s house and the first mosque he established in Madinah. As the focal point of the early Muslim community, the Prophet delivered sermons, led prayers, and received revelations here.

The area measures approximately 22 meters by 15 meters. This limited space remains a precious commodity, especially during peak seasons like Hajj and Ramadan. Within the Rawdah, several notable columns (Ustuwanah) stand, each marking a historical event or person from the Prophet’s time:

• Ustuwanah Al-Hannana: The Weeping Pillar.
• Ustuwanah Al-Tawbah: The Column of Repentance.
• Ustuwanat Aishah: The Column of Aishah (R.A.).
• Ustuwanah Al-Haras: The Column of the Guard.

The Blessings of Prayer

Muslims believe that offering prayers (Salah) in Riyazul Jannah carries an extraordinary reward. Many scholars hold that Allah multiplies the reward of a single prayer in this sacred space. This conviction, alongside the belief that Allah rarely rejects supplications (Du’a) made here, draws pilgrims from across the globe.

Access and Appointments

Because of the immense demand and limited capacity, the Saudi Arabian government regulates access. Currently, pilgrims must book a specific time slot through the official Nusuk or Tawakkalna apps to ensure a peaceful and organized visit.