The Mosque (of the Prophet) was built in the land of Banu al-Najjar which contained crops, palm trees and graves of the disbelievers. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Sell it to me for some price. They (Banu al-Najjar) replied: We do not want (any price). The palm-trees were cut off, and the crops removed and the graves of the disbelievers dug opened. He then narrated the rest of the tradition. But this version has the word "forgive" in the verse, instead of the word "help". Musa said: 'Abd al-Warith also narrated this tradition in a like manner. The version of 'Abd al-Warith has the word "dung-hill" (instead of crop), and he asserted that he narrated this tradition to Hammad.
Narrated by Anas b. Malik said:
Context
This hadith narrates the circumstances surrounding the establishment of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. The location was initially a garden with crops, palm trees, and the graves of disbelievers. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) sought to purchase the land, but the owners, Banu al-Najjar, refused any payment. Consequently, the area was cleared, and the mosque was built, symbolizing the transition from a place of disbelief to one of worship.
Modern Application
The principle of community cooperation and sacrifice is evident in today's society, where individuals often come together to support communal projects. Whether it's building a community center or organizing local events, the spirit of collaboration can lead to positive change and unity among people.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Community and Prophetic Conduct because it highlights the collective effort of the Banu al-Najjar in donating their land for the mosque and the Prophet's (ﷺ) leadership in establishing a place of worship.
Do not stand [for prayer] within it - ever. A mosque founded on righteousness from the first day is more worthy for you to stand in. Within it are men who love to purify themselves; and Allah loves those who purify themselves.
And [mention, O Muhammad], when We designated for Abraham the site of the House, [saying], "Do not associate anything with Me and purify My House for those who perform Tawaf and those who stand [in prayer] and those who bow and prostrate.
Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; and those with him are forceful against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and prostrating [in prayer], seeking bounty from Allah and [His] pleasure. Their mark is on their faces from the trace of prostration. That is their description in the Torah. And their description in the Gospel is as a plant which produces its offshoots and strengthens them so they grow firm and stand upon their stalks, delighting the sowers - so that Allah may enrage by them the disbelievers. Allah has promised those who believe and do righteous deeds among them forgiveness and a great reward.
It is not for a prophet to have captives [of war] until he inflicts a massacre [upon Allah 's enemies] in the land. Some Muslims desire the commodities of this world, but Allah desires [for you] the Hereafter. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.
