Did Prophet Muhammad Leave Saudi Arabia or the Earth?

The question of whether Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, ever left Saudi Arabia can be approached from multiple perspectives, including historical and theological. This article delves into the topic, examining both the spiritual and temporal aspects of Prophet Muhammad's travels.

Geographical and Historical Context

It is important to note that the region known today as Saudi Arabia was not called Saudi Arabia during the time of Prophet Muhammad. In those days, the region was known as the Arabian Peninsula, a more accurate term reflecting the geographical reality of the time. Saudi Arabia as a modern state came into existence much later, in 1932.

Did Prophet Muhammad Truly Leave the Arabian Peninsula?

The answer to the question largely depends on the specific context. If we refer to commercial and personal travels within his lifetime, early records indicate that Muhammad did indeed conduct business trips for his first wife, Kha?ījah bint ?ayyān. These trips likely took place within the broader context of the Arabian Peninsula, including regions like Syria and Yemen. However, these were limited to mercantile activities and not indefinite stays or permanent residency elsewhere.

The Miraj: A Supernatural Journey

Prophet Muhammad's life included a spiritual journey known as the Miraj (also spelled Al-Mi?rāj). This extraordinary event is described in Islamic texts, specifically in the Quran, and involves a journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and eventually to the heavens. The Miraj is a significant moment in Islamic faith, symbolizing a direct encounter between a human being and the divine. According to the following passages from the Quran:

Al-Isra (Surah 17):
“Indeed, it is We who brought you from the cradle to full manhood, that there may be witness from Us. And privately I planned with them a plan, and I was a watcher over them as long as I pleased, then I brought you up (again).”

Al-Najm (Surah 53):
“I did not inform any mortal the length of the time (I took or showed you the way), except the guardian of that excellently tied-up (hanga) house, (who tied you up, for safety, in the house of Ibrahim).”

The Miraj is characterized by the extraordinary nature of the journey. Prophet Muhammad was transported to Jerusalem, where he led the prophets in prayer, before ascending to the seventh heaven (Paradise). This event is considered a miracle and a demonstration of Allah's power and support for his prophetic mission. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad remained in Makkah and Madina until his death, not undertaking any journeys by human means beyond this spiritual journey.

Travels During His Prophetic Mission

After the prophetic mission, there were no recorded journeys outside the Arabian Peninsula. Prophet Muhammad traveled between Makkah and Madina, which are located within the Arabian Peninsula. These travels were primarily for religious, political, and humanitarian reasons, and not for indefinite residence elsewhere. Furthermore, the safety and unity of Muslims were paramount, and leaving the region was not considered in the best interests of the community.

Conclusion

In summary, Prophet Muhammad never left Saudi Arabia in the traditional sense, nor did he leave the Earth itself. His travels were limited to the Arabian Peninsula for mercantile and other purposes, and his extraordinary journey, the Miraj, was a supernatural event that culminated in a spiritual encounter with the divine. This journey serves as a testament to the validity of his prophetic mission and the support of his divine guide.