The Well-Known Pillars of the Prophet's Mosque
The pillars of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina are distinctive landmarks that carry memories of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions, embodying the spirituality of the place. Located in the southern section of the mosque, each pillar holds a special position and profound significance.
Prominent Pillars, Their Locations, and Stories
1. The Perfumed Pillar (Ustuwanah al-Mukhlaqa)
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Location: In front of the Prophet’s Mihrab, facing the Qibla.
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Story: Named for its pleasant, fragrant scent, this pillar was where the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) performed obligatory prayers after the Qibla was changed. The companions sought to pray at this spot due to its significance.
2. The Pillar of the Lottery (Ustuwanah al-Qurah or Aishah’s Pillar)
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Location: The third from the Minbar, the third from the grave, and the third from the Qibla.
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Story: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) highlighted the virtue of this location. It was a gathering spot for the Quraysh migrants and was named "al-Qurah" because people would draw lots to pray there.
3. The Pillar of Repentance (Ustuwanah at-Tawbah or Abu Lubabah’s Pillar)
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Location: The fourth from the Minbar, the second from the grave, and the third from the Qibla.
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Story: Abu Lubabah tied himself to this pillar in repentance after betraying Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). His repentance was accepted here, making it a symbol of forgiveness.
4. The Pillar of the Bed (Ustuwanah as-Sarir)
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Location: East of the Pillar of Repentance, near the window overlooking the Noble Rawdah.
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Story: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would retreat at this pillar, where a bed of palm fronds and a pillow were placed for his rest.
5. The Pillar of the Guard (Ustuwanah al-Muharas)
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Location: Behind the Pillar of the Bed, opposite the small door (Khukhah) from which the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) exited for prayer.
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Story: Named for Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him), who sat there to guard the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).
6. The Pillar of the Delegates (Ustuwanah al-Wufud)
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Location: Behind the Pillar of the Guard to the north.
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Story: This was where the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) received delegations. Also known as the Council of the Necklace, it was a gathering place for the companions and their leaders.
7. The Square Tomb Pillar (Ustuwanah Muraba al-Qabr)
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Location: Inside the wall surrounding the Prophet’s Chamber, on the western side.
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Story: Known as the spot of Angel Jibril (peace be upon him), it was near the door to the house of Fatimah, the Prophet’s daughter (may Allah be pleased with her).
8. The Pillar of Night Prayer (Ustuwanah at-Tahajjud)
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Location: Behind the house of Fatimah, to the north, near a small mihrab.
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Story: This was the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) place for night prayers. Hadiths highlight the virtue of praying here, where the Prophet performed his Tahajjud prayers.
Spiritual Significance
These pillars are not merely locations but radiant stations that narrate stories of the Prophet’s life (peace and blessings be upon him), his mission, and his worship. Visiting them offers an opportunity to experience their spirituality and follow in his footsteps.