Makkah al-Mukarramah (1880) 3D Virtual Tour / Worldwide First

Summary

This video provides a historical and spiritual journey through the Masjid al-Haram in 1880 during the Ottoman era, highlighting its sacred landmarks and the Ottoman Empire's contributions to its maintenance. Key sites such as the Kaaba, Tawaf area, Makam Ibrahim, and the Zamzam well are explored, emphasizing their deep religious significance. The narrative also showcases the rich history, from the architectural efforts of Sinan to the preservation of the mosque's holiness by the Ottomans. The video offers a profound connection to the past and the enduring reverence Muslims hold for these sacred spaces.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ottoman Empire showed immense respect for Masjid al-Haram and the Kaaba, often not hoisting their flag in the area as a sign of reverence.
• 😀 The Masjid al-Haram's construction, initiated by Architect Sinan, was completed during Sultan Murad III's reign in 1576, with further developments by later Ottoman sultans.
• 😀 Ottoman efforts ensured that the Hajj pilgrimage was performed appropriately, with buildings around Masjid al-Haram constructed in a way that did not overshadow the Kaaba.
• 😀 The Ottomans valued education, as evidenced by the Suleimanya Madressa, built adjacent to Masjid al-Haram.
• 😀 The Bani Shaiba Gate and its connection to the Shaiba family symbolize the custodianship of the Kaaba keys, with a strong historical link to the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) traditions.
• 😀 The Tawaf area was carefully designed, with specific stations for the four Sunni schools of thought, each having its own Imam leading prayers.
• 😀 The use of rose oil in the lamps around the Tawaf area reflects the Ottomans' deep affection for the holy places.
• 😀 The Hajar al-Aswad, the black stone sent down to earth with Adam (AS), marks the starting point for Tawaf and is highly revered by pilgrims.
• 😀 The area of Makam Ibrahim, associated with the footprint of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), is one of the most important parts of Masjid al-Haram, offering spiritual significance.
• 😀 The Zamzam well, encased in a silver fence as a gift from Sultan Ahmed I, plays a central role in providing water to pilgrims and is surrounded by fountains for public use.

Q & A

Why did the Ottomans refrain from hoisting their flag on Ajit fortress?

The Ottomans refrained from hoisting their flag on Ajit fortress out of respect for the Masjid al-Haram, as they considered themselves mere servants of these sacred lands.

Who was the architect behind the first architectural drawings of Masjid al-Haram?

The first architectural drawings of Masjid al-Haram were made by the renowned architect Sinan.

When was the construction of the holy ground of Masjid al-Haram completed?

The construction of the holy ground was completed in 1576 during the reign of Sultan Murad III.

What effort did the Ottomans make regarding the buildings surrounding Masjid al-Haram?

The Ottomans ensured that all buildings in the vicinity of Masjid al-Haram were built in a way that none overshadowed the Kaaba, maintaining its sanctity.

What is the significance of the Suleimanya Madressa located near Masjid al-Haram?

The Suleimanya Madressa, built adjacent to Masjid al-Haram, highlights the Ottomans' commitment to education, reflecting their deep respect for scholarly pursuits.

What does Baba Salam refer to, and what is its significance?

Baba Salam is the Gate of Salam, constructed in honor of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It also bears the names of the Ottoman sultans from Osman Ghazi to Sultan Murad III.

What is the significance of the Bani Shaiba Gate?

The Bani Shaiba Gate marks the entrance for pilgrims during Tawaf and is a symbol of the Shaiba family, the custodians of the Kaaba's keys.

What role did the four stations (Hanifi, Maliki, Hambali, and Shafi) play in Masjid al-Haram?

The four stations represented the four Sunni madhabs (Islamic schools of thought), and different imams led prayers at these stations during their respective times.

What is the significance of Hajr al-Aswad in the pilgrimage?

Hajr al-Aswad is a sacred stone believed to have come from paradise. It is placed at the starting point of Tawaf and holds great spiritual importance for pilgrims.

Why was the Zamzam well surrounded by a silver fence by the Ottomans?

The Zamzam well was surrounded by a silver fence, which was a gift from Sultan Ahmed I. The Ottomans also built the first structure over the well in 1517, highlighting its significance.