Comprehensive Definition
Ḥujrah (حجرة): The term Ḥujrah refers specifically to the sacred chamber originally designated for ʿĀyishah, the favorite wife of the Prophet Muhammad. This chamber is now part of the Prophet’s Mosque in al-Madīnah and contains the graves of the Prophet Muhammad, Abū Bakr, and ʿUmar. It is a place of deep spiritual importance and reverence within the Islamic world.
Etymology
The Arabic word “Ḥujrah” (حجرة) translates to “chamber” or “room.” The name itself conveys the intimate and personal nature of the space as it was originally a private apartment within the Prophet Muhammad’s household.
Background
The Ḥujrah holds immense significance as it is the place where the Prophet Muhammad passed away and was subsequently buried. The chamber also includes the tombs of his close companions and the first two caliphs of Islam, Abū Bakr and ʿUmar. There is also a controversial narrative that the chamber hosts a reserved space for Jesus Christ’s future burial, which complements Islamic eschatology.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Cultural Differences
- Wahhābī Criticism: Unlike mainstream Islamic reverence for the Ḥujrah, the Wahhābī sect views venerating the chamber as idolatrous.
- Regional Custody: Al-Madīnah and, thus the Ḥujrah falls under the politically significant Saudi regime, which enforces Wahhābī ideologies, sometimes clashing with broader Muslim traditions.
Cultural Similarities
- Pilgrimage: Muslims from across the globe travel to al-Madīnah, mirroring Christian pilgrimages to sacred burial sites.
- Respect and Sanctity: Like many religious traditions revere the resting places of their leaders, Muslims show deep respect for the Ḥujrah.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Chamber of the Prophet (حجرة النبي)
- Sacred Chamber
- Noble Chamber
Antonyms:
- Profane Space
- Ordinary Room
Related Terms with Definitions
- Masjidu ʾn-Nabī (المسجد النبوي): The Prophet’s Mosque in al-Madīnah, regarded as one of the three holiest sites in Islam.
- Rauda al-Jannah (روضة الجنة): Meaning the “Garden of Paradise”, a part of the Prophet’s Mosque located between his pulpit and residence, believed to be part of the paradise on earth.
- Al-Madīnah (المدينة): The city otherwise known as Medina, the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca.
Exciting Facts
- Green Dome: Above the Ḥujrah lies a green dome topped with a golden crescent, which has become an iconic symbol of the Prophet’s Mosque.
- Historical Annotations: The Wahhābī takeover in 1804 led to significant stripping of valuables, emphasizing doctrinal differences within the Islamic practices.
- Reserved Burial for Jesus: The idea that Jesus Christ will return and be buried here adds layers to the chamber’s theological narrative and underscores integration with Christian eschatological traditions.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Sir Richard Francis Burton: In “Personal Narrative of a Pilgrimage to Al-Madinah and Meccah,” Burton notes, “Here the Faithful believe repose their Prophet’s hallowed remains, surrounded by the Saints and dearest to him on earth.”
- Marmaduke Pickthall: “That chamber not merely holds the founder of Islam but serves as a heart beating spiritual vigor to the sprawling ummah.”
Suggested Literature and Sources
- Burton, Richard F. Personal Narrative of a Pilgrimage to Al-Madinah and Meccah
- Burckhardt, John L. Travels in Arabia
- Elad, Amikam. Medieval Jerusalem and Islamic Worship: Holy Places, Ceremonies, Pilgrimage
- As-Sallabi, Ali M. Umar Ibn Al-Khattab His Life and Times
Quizzes
A parting note from the author: With each step toward understanding the sacred sites of our past, we gather threads of wisdom weaving the beautiful tapestry of shared human spirituality.
Amina Al-Fahad
– October 8, 2023
