Masjid Jirranah – Mosque, Miqat & Distribution of War Spoils
Masjid Al Ji’ranah, stands as a sacred beacon, near Masjid al-Haram, as a haven for spiritual reflection and connection.
The mosque or Makkah masjid holds a special place in the hearts of the Muslim community, but it is its religious and historical significance pertaining to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that makes it a pivotal stop for pilgrims in Makkah.
The Madinah or Makkah mosque serves as a designated Miqat point for residents within the Haram area who intend to embark on the sacred journeys of Hajj or Umrah.
Find it easily on the Makkah map during Hajj or Umrah ask around in Makkah and Madinah for the location. Pilgrims to Madinah can also guide you during Hajj or Umrah.
History of Masjid Al Ji’ranah
Masjid Al-Ji’ranah located at the site wherein the Holy Prophet (PBUH) entered into Ihram from the Hunayn Battle near Makkah.
This masjid which lies a long distance from Madinah also serves as one of the designated Miqat points for residents within the Haram area who intend to perform Hajj or the shorter, but equally significant, Umrah.
Origin of the Name Ji’ranah
This locality is named in honour of a woman from the Quraysh, who hailed from the Banu Tameem tribe, named Reeta, bearing the title Ji’irranah.
Her life was marked by mental instability, as she devoted her entire day to knitting cloth only to tear it up into shreds.
According to Abdullah bin Abbas (RA), it is this particular woman who is referenced in the Quranic Surah Nahl, where it recounts:
“And do not become like the woman who, after painstakingly spun her yarn, caused it to disintegrate into pieces…”
(Quran 16:92)
Distribution of Booty after the Battle of Hunanyn
The Prophet (SAW) besieged Taif, which lies more than 400 km from Madinah and a futile effort later abandoned. Surprisingly, the city surrendered voluntarily weeks later.
At Jirana, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) distributed war spoils from the Battle of Hunayn. Remarkably, the share allocated to Abu Sufyan and his Umayyad clan surpassed all others.
Despite prior animosity, Abu Sufyan, overwhelmed by the Prophet (PBUH)’s generosity, exclaimed, “You are generous in war and peace.” Contrary to suggestions, this act wasn’t a bribe but a display of magnanimity.
After Makkah’s conquest, the Umayyads were at the Prophet (PBUH)’s mercy. His gesture aimed to quell animosity, not buy loyalty. The gifts symbolised a desire for harmony, earning them the name ‘Muallafa Qulubuhum’ – those whose hearts were won.
Various types of people require their hearts to be won. Abu Ya’la al-Farra, a notable jurist, categorised them into four groups:
- Those needing reconciliation for supporting Muslims;
- Those to be won over to prevent harm to Muslims;
- Individuals naturally drawn to Islam;
- Those pivotal for facilitating the conversion of their tribal members to Islam.
It was here at Ji’rranah that an incident took place which was a great source of pride for the Ansar.
The Prophet (ﷺ) gave large shares of the booty to the people with the intention of winning them over to Islam and to strengthen the conviction of the new Muslims.
Because none of the Ansar received such generous sums, some Ansar youth were disturbed by it. This news reached the Prophet (ﷺ) who gathered the Ansar and proclaimed,
“O assembly of Ansar! Does it not please you that while others may take goats and sheep home with them, you will be taking the Messenger of Allah home with you?”
This filled their eyes with tears and they expressed their pleasure with the distribution.
Masjid Al Ji’ranah Distance from Haram
Located around 24km northeast of Masjid al-Haram, Masjid al-Ji’rranah serves as a Miqat point, where pilgrims initiate Ihram for Umrah.
In the 8th year after Hijra, the Prophet (PBUH) camped here for a few days post the Battle of Hunayn.
It was from these places that he entered into Ihram before proceeding to Makkah or Madinah Makkah for Umrah.
Masjid Al Ji’ranah Bus Number
Pilgrims and visitors who wish to travel to the Makkah mosque can take bus number 10, a free transportation service which can be availed from the bus stand ahead of the library and bridge.
For more information, Madinah or Makkah local guides can help you find appropriate transportation as per designated timings in Makkah and Madinah during Hajj or Umrah.
Ask around Madinah for similar transportation to the masjid during Hajj or Umrah. You may find a different bus from Madinah during Hajj or Umrah or a different transportation option from Madinah to get you to the masjid.
Summary – Masjid Al Ji’ranah
In conclusion, Masjid Al Ji’ranah emerges as a sacred bridge or guide between history and spirituality, nestled in the spiritual tapestry near Masjid al-Haram.
Its role as a Miqat point for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims adds a layer of significance, inviting reflection on the profound Makkah or Madinah journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) after the Battle of Hunayn.
The historical roots, traced back to Reeta with the title Ji’irranah, echo the intricate interweaving of personal narratives into the broader Islamic tapestry.
The generosity displayed in the distribution of booty after the Battle of Hunayn, particularly towards Abu Sufyan and the Umayyads, reflects the Prophet (PBUH)’s magnanimity and strategic wisdom.
The Prophet (PBUH)’s dialogue with the Ansar serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of Islam, emphasising unity, guidance, and prosperity.
The Prophet (PBUH)’s rhetorical Makkah and Madinah questions underscore not only the historical journey but also the profound impact he had on individuals’ lives, fostering a sense of gratitude and unity among the Ansar.
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