Masjid al-Qiblatain (The Mosque of Two Qiblas)
Where History Turned Mid-Prayer
Step into Masjid al-Qiblatain, the mosque that witnessed one of the most pivotal moments in Islamic history. It was here, in this very location, that Allah (SWT) sent the revelation to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to change the direction of prayer (the Qibla).
In a profound act of submission and faith, the Prophet and his companions turned 180 degrees during their prayer, from Jerusalem to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. A visit to this mosque is a journey into a moment that forever defined the identity and spiritual focus of the Muslim Ummah.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Understanding the Mosque Today
Masjid al-Qiblatain is a key landmark located within the city of Madinah. While its name means “The Mosque of Two Qiblas,” the modern, beautifully renovated mosque has only one Mihrab (prayer niche) pointing towards the Kaaba in Makkah. The historical significance lies in the fact that it took place on this sacred ground.
The Spiritual Significance:
The Divine Command (Yawm al-Tahweel)
For the first 16 to 17 months after the Hijrah to Madinah, the Muslims prayed facing north towards Bait al-Maqdis (the Noble Sanctuary in Jerusalem). This was the Qibla of the prophets before them.
However, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) held a deep longing in his heart to face the Kaaba, the house built by Ibrahim (AS). He would often turn his face towards the heavens in silent supplication.
The Revelation in Prayer
One day, while the Prophet (PBUH) was leading the Dhuhr (midday) prayer with his companions from the tribe of Banu Salamah, the divine command came. In the middle of the second Rakat, Allah (SWT) revealed the much-awaited verse:
We have certainly seen the turning of your face, [O Muhammad], toward the heaven, and We will surely turn you to a qiblah with which you will be pleased. So turn your face toward al-Masjid al-Haram. And wherever you [believers] are, turn your faces toward it…
Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah 2:144
Without a moment’s hesitation, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) turned to face the Kaaba. The companions praying behind him, in a perfect display of obedience and faith, followed his lead and completed their prayer in the new direction. This event was a major test of faith and a defining moment that established a unique spiritual identity for the Muslims, centered around the Kaaba.
Exploring the Site: The Experience
Modern ArchitectureThe mosque is an architectural marvel, with a design that distinguishes it from other mosques in the region. Its layout is a tribute to its unique history.
The Single QiblaVisitors will pray facing the one Mihrab that points towards Makkah. Contemplate that on this very spot, the companions once prayed in the opposite direction before receiving the divine command.
A Moment of ReflectionStand in the prayer hall and imagine the profound faith of the companions who changed direction mid-prayer, having complete trust in Allah and His Messenger (PBUH). It is a place to reflect on the meaning of submission (Islam). The primary act of worship here is to offer two Rakat of Nafl prayer.
Gallery: Masjid al-Qiblatain – Where the Qibla Changed Forever
Practical Information and Logistics
Travel Time from Masjid an-NabawiLocated in the western part of Madinah, it takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes by car to reach the mosque.
Best Time to VisitThe mosque can be visited at any time. It is typically included as a standard stop in a Ziyarat tour that covers the main historical sites of Madinah.
EtiquetteObserve the standard etiquette of any mosque. Remember that you will only pray towards the current Qibla (Makkah). The name “Qiblatain” refers to the historical event, not the current physical structure.
Visiting with Umrah.cab
Pilgrim Reflections: Faith in Motion at Masjid al-Qiblatain
Standing in this mosque made me emotional. Imagining the companions turning mid-prayer was a powerful reminder of what true obedience means.
Sadaf Rahman – United Kingdom
Masjid al-Qiblatain was one of my favorite stops in Madinah. Our driver explained the story beautifully, and I felt so connected to that historic moment.
Ali Yousuf – Indonesia
The serenity of this place is unmatched. You can feel the presence of history and revelation in the air, a must-visit during any Ziyarat.
Leila and Omar – Canada
