From Quba To Uhud, Historical Journey Revives Spirit Of Sacrifice Among Haj Pilgrims

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MADINAH, April 21 (Bernama) -- Beginning at the Quba Mosque, stopping by the date farms and ending at Mount Uhud, Malaysian haj pilgrims embark on a journey that is both physical and spiritual.

The visit, organised by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), is more than just a journey through Madinah’s historic sites - it breathes life into the spirit of sacrifice, brotherhood and resilience, serving as spiritual preparation before the peak of the haj in Makkah.

TH Madinah guidance and ziarah manager Mohamad Zahir Hussin said the itinerary is carefully designed not merely as a visit, but as a process of spiritual nurturing (tarbiah), helping pilgrims internalise the values embodied in the struggles of Prophet Muhammad and his companions.

“At Quba, pilgrims begin with worship and blessings. At the date farms, they witness the simple rhythms of life in Madinah. Then at Mount Uhud, they are brought face to face with the meaning of struggle and sacrifice.

“It is not just a journey from one place to another, but a journey that shapes the soul before they take their next steps towards Makkah,” he told reporters during the visit held here on Tuesday.

He said the approach helps pilgrims understand the link between the history of Islam’s struggles and the challenges, patience and sacrifices that are integral to the performance of the haj.

As early as 6 am, the writer, together with other haj pilgrims, began the visit at the Quba Mosque - the first mosque built by Prophet Muhammad after the migration to Madinah - offering the opportunity to perform prayers and reflect on its significance.

The journey then continued to the date farms, providing an opportunity to see one of Madinah’s iconic agricultural products up close, with some also taking the opportunity to purchase souvenirs to bring home.

One of the pilgrims, Norma Said, from Solok Musai, Melaka, said the stop completed the visit experience before the journey continued to locations more deeply rooted in historical reflection.

“Although I am on my own, TH’s management has always ensured that I am able to take part in the organised programmes and receive clear guidance,” she said.

The writer also had the opportunity to make a brief stop at the Qiblatain Mosque to view the historic site, although the visit was limited due to ongoing renovation works.

According to Mohamad Zahir, despite the short visit, the stop remained meaningful as prospective pilgrims were reminded of the event marking the change in the direction of the qibla from Al-Aqsa Mosque to the Kaaba, symbolising obedience to Allah’s command.

The most profound moment of the visit for many came upon arrival at Mount Uhud, the site where Saidina Hamzah and 69 other companions were martyred during the Battle of Uhud.

Mohamad Zahir said that at the site, pilgrims are exposed to the values of sacrifice and resilience that form the core of the Islamic struggle and are deeply relevant to the spiritual experience of the haj.

For a husband and wife from Klebang, Melaka, Faizul Idris, 50, and Zaihasra Ruskiman, 49, the experience of the visit opened up a new dimension to their haj journey.

“Previously, I had only read about the Prophet’s struggles in books of sirah, but being here has given me a real sense of the sacrifices made - something I feel I would not be capable of myself,” Faizul said.

-- BERNAMA