It still stands majestically today...

It still stands majestically today, frequently enlarged and beautified throughout the last fourteen centuries. The tomb of (S) is situated within its enclosure, and draws millions of Muslims from all over the world. Fraternization The second important step taken by the Prophet in Madina was the fraternizing of 'Muhajireen' (Makkan Immigrants) with the 'Ansar' (Madinite Helpers) in the bonds of Islamic brotherhood.

He fraternised each Muhajir with an Ansar, joining them together as brothers in faith. And he himself clasped the hand of his beloved cousin Ali bin Abi Talib (a) as the supreme symbol of brotherhood, fraternity and solidarity in the Islamic society. Before proceeding further let us say a few words about the Muhajireen and the Ansar, who formed the pillars of the Islamic State.

Allah, the Exalted describes them in the Qur'an as follows: “And as for the first and foremost of the Muhajireen (emigrants) and the Ansar (helpers), and those who followed suit in good deeds; Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him; and He has prepared for them gardens watered by running streams, therein dwelling forever; that is a supreme triumph.” (9:100) The Muhajireen as the name suggests were the Muslim emigrants from Makkah who had followed the Prophet of Madina to safeguard their faith and to escape persecution from the infidels.

They had embraced Islam in its early formative years and most of them had steadfastly endured severe pain and hardship in the way of liberty, truth and justice. On the other hand, the Ansar were the indigenous inhabitants of Madina, who believed in the Message of Islam and rallied to the help of the Prophet. They welcomed him to their city, and fought alongside him against the pagans of Arabia.

It was their faith and selfless devotion which cemented Islamic unity and brought many a glorious victory for Islam. At the time of the H4ra most of the Muhajireen were poor and possessed nothing, but the Ansar displaying the finest example of Islamic brotherhood, provided them with their needs such as houses, money and food. They lodged them in their own houses, shared their wealth with them and gave their daughters in marriage to the Makkan Muslims.

Such were the Muhajireen and the Ansar - brothers sharing food, clothing and residence, and defending and helping each other as ordered by the Almighty.