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The Rawdah is the area between النبي's pulpit and his burial chamber in Masjid al-Nabawi. النبي said: 'Between my house and my pulpit is one of the gardens of Paradise' (Bukhari). It is marked by green carpeting and access is managed through appointments. Praying in the Rawdah is highly virtuous.
النبي Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said: 'Between my house and my pulpit is one of the gardens of Paradise, and my pulpit is upon my basin (Hawd)' (Bukhari and Muslim). This hadith establishes the Rawdah as a uniquely blessed space — a piece of Paradise manifested on earth. Scholars have interpreted this hadith in several ways: some understand it literally, believing the physical space is genuinely connected to Paradise; others understand it metaphorically, meaning that the worship performed there leads to Paradise; and others combine both interpretations. Regardless of the scholarly interpretation, the practical consensus is that this area is among the most blessed places for الصلاة on earth.
The Rawdah is يقع في the southeastern section of Masjid al-Nabawi, spanning approximately 22 meters from النبي's pulpit (minbar) to the wall of his burial chamber, and about 15 meters in width. It is distinguished from the rest of the مسجد by its green carpeting (the general مسجد carpeting is red). Due to the enormous demand and the relatively small size of the Rawdah, access is carefully managed by the مسجد administration through timed appointment slots. During peak seasons (الحج and رمضان), waiting times can be several hours. Women have designated access times, typically during specific hours. Patience and respect for the management system are essential.
When you reach the Rawdah, pray two ركعةs (tahiyyat al-masjid or voluntary الصلاة), then make extended دعاء. This is one of the places where دعاء is most likely to be accepted. Do not push or shove others — the space is crowded and tempers can fray, but the sanctity of the location demands exemplary behavior. Do not raise your voice or argue. Spend your time in quiet worship: الصلاة, دعاء, القرآن recitation, and dhikr. Be mindful of others waiting for their turn — do not monopolize space unnecessarily. When visiting النبي's grave nearby, send salam (greetings) in a moderate voice: 'As-salamu alayka ya Rasul Allah' (Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allah).