A number of key historical sites dating back to the birth of Islam have been lost during recent expansion of Kaaba and Masjid-i-Nabvi and the authorities in Saudi Arabia have begun dismantling some of the oldest sections of Islam’s most important mosque as part of latest expansion.
The new construction has also eliminated place that was related with the event of Miraj. One column which is believed to have been ripped down is supposed to mark the spot where Muslims believe Muhammad sallallahu wasallam began his heavenly journey.
Many of the Ottoman and Abbasid columns in Mecca had been demolished that were inscribed with intricate Arabic calligraphy marking the names of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions and key moments in his life.
Today’s Mecca is different where you can not find important spot related with the life of Muhammad sallallahu wasallam including place from where Muhammad sallallahu wasallam took Miraj during a single night around the year 621. A brief sketch of the story is in sura 17 Al-Isra of the Quran, and other details come from the Hadith, supplemental writings about the life of Muhammad sallallahu wasallam. In the journey, Muhammad travels on the steed Buraq to “the farthest mosque” where he leads other prophets in prayer. He then ascends to heaven where he speaks to God, who gives Muhammad instructions to take back to the faithful regarding the details of prayer. According to traditions, the journey is associated with the Lailat al Mi’raj, as one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar
Saudi regime of course has no love for places related to many important events of the life of Muhammad sallallahu wasallam because many senior Wahabis are against the preservation of historical Islamic sites that are linked to the prophet because they believe it encourages shirq – the sin of idol worshiping.
In the last decade Mecca has been transformed from a dusty desert pilgrimage town into a gleaming metropolis of skyscrapers that tower over the Masjid al-Haram and are filled with a myriad of shopping malls, luxury apartments and five star hotels.
This is a letter sent by Muhammad Junaid from Riyadh. He has written is own opinion and DNd may not support his views.
