The Prophet’s Mosque welcomed 4,000 worshipers from 120 countries for Itikaf during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, according to Arab News.
Recently, Saudi authorities have completed preparations for accommodating 10,000 Itikaf worshippers in the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, according to Gulf News.
At the Prophet’s Mosque, the authorities directed worshipers to their designated areas, as follows:
- The western rooftop section for men, accessible via staircases No. 6 and 10
- The northeastern section for women, with entry through doors 24 and 25A
Chief of Presidency of Religious Affairs in the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, Abdulrahman Al Sudais, stressed the significance of providing Itikaf performers with an appropriate environment for performing rituals.
Currently, worshippers can find a dedicated help desk to secure lockers for their belongings, medical clinics as well as first aid.
In addition, other services include multilingual translation support, religious lessons and full meal provisions for iftar, dinner, and sahoor.
Itikaf represents a deeply revered Islamic practice that starts on Ramadan 20 (March 20) and continue until the end of the fasting month.
During the Itikaf period, Muslims should dedicate themselves to worship, seclusion in a mosque, prayer as well as reflection, following the example of the Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him).
Furthermore, participants spend their full time in reciting the Quran, making supplications, and performing additional prayers.
They often spend the entire time within the mosque’s premises, eating and sleeping there as well.
Therefore, it provides Muslims with an important opportunity to strengthen one’s connection with Allah, away from the distractions of daily life.
Related Topics:
10,000 Worshippers to Perform Itikaf at Mecca and Medina Mosques
Saudi Arabia Opens Online Registration for Itikaf at Two Holy Mosques
