Bir Usman Ghani (RA) – The Well of Rumah
Bir Usman: The Well Purchased for Paradise
A Legacy of Everlasting Charity
Discover the story of Bir Usman (The Well of Usman). This simple well stands as one of the most powerful testaments to faith, foresight, and the concept of ongoing charity (sadaqa jariya) in Islamic history. Located in Madinah, this well is far more than a source of water; it is a tangible lesson in generosity, a transaction made for Jannah by the companion Uthman ibn Affan (RA), whose blessed charity continues to flow to this day.
IMPORTANT NOTE: A Living Legacy
The site of Bir Usman today is a large, functioning date palm plantation. The original historic well is preserved and accessible for viewing within this green oasis. The visit is a unique opportunity to witness the incredible legacy that a single act of sincere charity can create, one that has flourished for over 1,400 years.
The Spiritual Significance:
The Story of a Heavenly Transaction
Sensing the community’s hardship, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) made a profound announcement in the mosque.
The third Caliph of Islam, Uthman ibn Affan (RA), a wealthy and astute businessman, immediately seized this opportunity to invest for the hereafter.
He approached the owner and offered to buy the well. The owner refused to sell it outright, so Uthman (RA) proposed a shared arrangement.
Uthman (RA) then dedicated his share, and later the entire well, as a waqf (permanent religious endowment) for the unrestricted use of all Muslims, rich and poor alike. This single act became one of the most famous examples of sadaqa jariya in Islamic history.
Over the centuries, the well’s legacy flourished. A lush date palm farm grew around it, managed as part of the endowment. The proceeds from harvests were used to aid people experiencing poverty. At the same time, a portion was saved in an account still registered under the name Uthman ibn Affan (RA).
These funds eventually financed the purchase of land and the construction of a modern hotel in Madinah, with its income continuing to support orphans and people in need, a charity that continues to this day, more than 1,400 years later.
The Visiting Experience
A Green OasisYour visit will take you to a large, walled plantation filled with thousands of date palms, a testament to the blessings of the endowment.
The Historic WellYou can see the original well, now covered and preserved for its historical significance.
A Moment of ReflectionThe experience is profound. It is a chance to reflect on the power of sincere giving, the wisdom of investing for the Akhirah (hereafter), and the incredible barakah (blessing) that Allah can place in a single act of generosity.
A Glimpse of Bir Usman (RA): The Well of Rumah
The Well of Usman (RA) and its surrounding date palm plantation offer a peaceful reminder of the blessings born from sincere charity. Each image tells a story of faith, foresight, and the enduring impact of sadaqa jariya.
Practical Information and Logistics
Visit Duration:
This is typically a short but deeply inspiring stop, usually lasting 20–30 minutes, and is often included as part of a comprehensive Ziyarat tour of Madinah’s historical and religious sites.
Location:
Bir Usman (RA) is located approximately 3–4 km northwest of Masjid an-Nabawi, in a tranquil area surrounded by agricultural land.
Accessibility:
Accessible by private car or chauffeur service. The site entrance is open to visitors during daylight hours. However, access to the inner plantation may be limited to designated walkways.
Recommended Vehicle Type:
A private sedan or SUV is ideal, especially when part of a half-day or full-day Madinah Ziyarat tour. Chauffeur services like Umrah.cab provide flexible, door-to-door transport for families and groups.
Best Time to Visit:
Morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the plantation offers beautiful lighting for reflection and photography.
Visitor Etiquette:
- Dress modestly and respectfully.
- Maintain quiet reflection, this is a site of spiritual and historical significance.
- Avoid littering or disturbing the natural setting.
- You may take photos from permitted areas, but always act respectfully near the well.
Perfect for All Your Personal Journeys
Discover the Full StoryOur experienced drivers not only take you to the well but can also narrate the full, incredible history of this endowment from the time of the Prophet (ﷺ) to its extraordinary modern-day legacy.
Convenient and ComfortableTravel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to this and other important sites outside the city’s central walking area.
An Inspiring ItineraryWe believe in creating meaningful journeys. A stop at Bir Usman adds a unique and powerful dimension to your Ziyarat, teaching a lesson you will never forget.
Pilgrims Who Visited Bir Usman (RA) Share Their Reflections
Visiting Bir Usman (RA) was deeply emotional. Standing near the well, I felt the living spirit of Uthman ibn Affan’s (RA) generosity still blessing the Ummah.
Yasoob Khan – Pakistan
The tranquility of the date palm plantation was overwhelming. It’s a reminder that true charity never ends; it continues to benefit people centuries later.
Fatima Al-Mansouri – United Arab Emirates
A beautifully maintained site with a powerful story. Seeing how the charity of one man still provides for others was the highlight of my Ziyarat in Madinah.
Yusuf Adam – United Kingdom
