Every Muslim desires to visit the blessed and radiant cities of Makkah and Medinah (Haramain sharifain: the noble sanctuaries). At least once in his lifetime.

For many this opportunity comes with the performance of Hajj. Others get this chance when they visit for Umrah. Sometimes repeatedly.  Few individuals are blessed to get jobs in these cities and earn their living there.

All of these moments spend in the noble sanctuaries are extremely precious. A virtuous deed done in these precincts can earn a reward of 50,000 to 100,000 times performed elsewhere.  An unimaginable bonus!

Each and very second has to be utilized effectively to reap maximum benefit. A challenging task indeed. Especially, for individuals like us who are not organized and motivated. Laziness, apathy and negligence become the major barriers.  Moreover, committing sinful acts in these sanctuaries are  reciprocally or extra-reprehensible and blameworthy.

It is for these reasons some pious scholars have advised against taking permanent or prolonged residence in these noble  sanctuaries. They include our Imam Abu Hanifa (Allah have mercy on him).

Shaikh Haji Imdadullah mohajir Makki (Allah have mercy on him) advised an Indian  nawwab planning to migrate to Hijaz,

‘Staying in Hindustan and having a desire to live in noble sanctuaries is better than living here and being occupied in your stately affairs in Hindustan.’

Shaikhul Hadith Mawlana Zakariya mohajir Madani (Allah have mercy on him) use to tell those expressing their desire to migrate to Medinah e munawwarah,

‘Do not make such a decision of migration by observing my example. I have come here (towards the end of my life) to die (and be buried in Baqi).’

In short, the etiquette of the noble sanctuaries are significant and have to be taken very seriously.

The interview: Medinah e munawwarah 19th Ziqada 1434