Uhud Mountain, encompassing the northern plain of Medina-i Munawwarah, spans 8 kilometers in length and reaches a height of 110 meters. Positioned 5 kilometers from the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid-i Nabawi), Uhud Mountain stands distinct, unassociated with any mountain range, and its unique individuality earned it the name “Uhud.” Today, it has become integrated into the expanding city of Medina, bordered by the Medina Airport road to the east and Tariqul Yun to the west.
The historical significance and nomenclature of Uhud Mountain derive from the Battle of Uhud, a pivotal event in the confrontation against the Meccan polytheists.
Hz. Anas (RA) recounted an incident when Prophet Muhammad (SAW), along with companions Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman (RA), ascended Uhud Mountain. The mountain resonated with joy, prompting the Prophet to affirm its steadfastness with the words, “Stay firm, O Uhud, for on you is a Prophet, a truthful one, and two martyrs.”
In various narrations, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) expressed a special connection with Uhud, stating, “Uhud is a mountain that loves us, and we love it. Uhud is one of the cornerstones of Paradise.”
The Battle of Uhud unfolded when, a year after the Battle of Badr, Meccan polytheists assembled a formidable army of 3,000 seeking vengeance. Although initially intending to remain in defensive positions in Medina, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) yielded to the insistence of young Muslims and companions, deciding to confront the Meccan forces at Uhud with 700 companions. The strategic placement of 50 archers on Aynain hill was crucial, yet their departure altered the course of the battle.
Despite an initial advantage, the Muslims faced a reversal as the Meccan forces attacked from the rear. The misinformation of Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) martyrdom slowed the battle, and the Muslims eventually retreated to the foothills of Uhud Mountain. The separation of the two armies marked the end of the battle.
The aftermath of the Battle of Uhud involved the Prophet burying the martyrs and leading their funeral prayers.
Visiting the Martyrs of Uhud became a practice endorsed by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He expressed a desire to spend a night at the foot of Uhud and conveyed that the martyrs would respond to anyone visiting and greeting them until the Day of Judgment.
Prophet Muhammad’s family and companions, including Hz. Fatimah (RA), Ummu Salama (RA), and Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas (RA), continued the tradition of visiting the Uhud Martyrs. The graves at Uhud, marked by small stones at the head and foot, became a significant historical site. Despite some graves being relocated to Jannat al-Baqi, the Uhud Martyrs’ site retains its historical importance.
Throughout history, various rulers and caliphs, including Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, contributed to the preservation and restoration of the Uhud Martyrs’ site, constructing domed structures and shrines. Today, Uhud Martyrs’ site remains an open area enclosed by walls, visited for its historical significance.