Quba, a village known for its lush oasis, abundant wells, and date gardens, was situated strategically along the route connecting Mecca and Medina. The name “Quba” originated from a prominent well in the region. During the pivotal migration (hijrah) from Mecca to Medina, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his companions found shelter in Quba, just an hour’s walk from Medina. Their sojourn in Quba lasted 14 days, where Prophet Muhammad resided in the homes of Gulsom ibn al-Hedm and Sa’d ibn Haysema al-Ansari.
This period saw the active involvement of Prophet Muhammad in the construction of the first mosque in Islam, where he not only performed prayers but also engaged in discussions with his companions. The location where Prophet Muhammad prayed and interacted with his companions remained preserved until the urban development project of 1985, which included the renovation of Masjid al-Quba.
Masjid al-Quba holds a distinct rank among mosques, succeeding the Masjid al-Haram, the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi), and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Prophet Muhammad regarded praying in Masjid al-Quba as equivalent to performing an Umrah (minor pilgrimage). His visits to the mosque on Saturdays, occasional Mondays, and the 17th day of Ramadan were marked by leading prayers, delivering Quranic lessons, and addressing queries from the community.
Surah Al-Tawbah (9:108) is widely interpreted to refer to Masjid al-Quba, emphasizing its foundation on piety and the inhabitants’ commitment to cleanliness. The historical and spiritual significance of Masjid al-Quba is further underscored by Prophet Muhammad’s recommendation to visit and pray there. He established a tradition of regular visits, either on foot or by mount, encouraging Muslims to purify themselves at home and visit Masjid al-Quba solely for prayers. Such visits, undertaken with the exclusive intention of prayer, were promised the spiritual reward equivalent to that of an Umrah, showcasing the profound connection between this mosque and the practice of Islamic devotion.