Tucked away in Medina, Saudi Arabia, Masjid Al Manar beckons. This isn’t just any mosque. It holds a story waiting to be unveiled. Masjid Al Manar, also known as the Manartain Mosque, meaning “Mosque of the Two Towers,” isn’t named for minarets as you might expect. Its name originates from its location between two mountains, once referred to as towers, framing this sacred space. Imagine the early days, when Masjid Al Manar was a simple structure built of rocks by the Sahabah, the companions of the Prophet Muhammad. It was originally known as the Mosque of Bani Dinar, reflecting the Bani Dinar tribe who settled the area. The mosque stood as a testament to their faith, a beacon amidst the evolving landscape. Over time, the area around Masjid Al Manar saw changes. The old main street towards Mecca passed nearby. The mosque remained, a constant amidst the shifting patterns of the city. Years passed, and the original rock structure began to show the passage of time. Recognizing its historical significance, King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz ordered a restoration and expansion of Masjid Al Manar in 2003. Today, the mosque stands as a blend of old and new, a tribute to its enduring legacy. It’s a place where history whispers through the stones, a reminder of the devotion that first built this sacred sanctuary.
Jabal `Ayr
Why was Jabal `Ayr called the “Mountain of Hell”? Here, at the foot of this imposing peak south of Medina,