Masjid al-Ji’rranah – History and Significance

Masjid al-Ji’rranah (Arabic: مسجد الجعرانة) is located around 24 km northeast of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. It is one of the Miqat (designated stations) from where pilgrims intending to perform Umrah enter the sacred state of Ihram.

This site holds immense historical and spiritual value because, in 8 AH, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) camped here after the Battle of Hunayn, entered Ihram, and then proceeded to Makkah to perform Umrah.

Origin of the Name Ji’rranah

The name of this place is attributed to a woman from the Quraysh tribe, belonging to Banu Tameem. Her name was Reeta, and she was known by the title Ji’rranah. She was mentally unstable and would spend her days weaving cloth, only to unravel it again.

This peculiar act is believed to be referenced in the Qur’an (16:92):

“And do not be like she who untwisted her spun thread after it was strong…”

Thus, the area became known as Ji’rranah after her.

Distribution of War Booty after the Battle of Hunayn

After their victory in the Battle of Hunayn, the Muslim army camped at Ji’rranah for a few days. During this time, the Prophet (ﷺ) distributed the spoils of war seized from the Hawazin tribe.

Soon after, the tribe members came in repentance, requesting the return of both their wealth and captives. The Prophet (ﷺ) gave them the choice of either reclaiming their wealth or their prisoners. They chose the release of their prisoners, and the Sahabah (رضي الله عنهم) gladly handed them over.

Later that evening, the Prophet (ﷺ) entered Ihram from Ji’rranah, performed Umrah, and returned to Madinah the very same night.

A Memorable Incident at Ji’rranah

An event that deeply touched the hearts of the Ansar (Helpers of Madinah) occurred here. When distributing the spoils, the Prophet (ﷺ) gave generous shares to new Muslims and tribal leaders, aiming to soften their hearts toward Islam.

The Ansar received little by comparison, which caused unease among some of their youth. On hearing this, the Prophet (ﷺ) gathered them and said:

“O assembly of Ansar! Does it not please you that people return home with camels and sheep, while you return home with the Messenger of Allah?”

Hearing this, the Ansar were moved to tears and affirmed their contentment. This incident became a great source of honor and pride for them.

Revelation at Ji’rranah

It was at Ji’rranah that Allah revealed the verse in Surah al-Baqarah (2:196):

“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah…”

This further emphasized the sacredness of the location and its link to the rituals of Umrah.

FAQs about Masjid al-Ji’rranah

1. What is Masjid al-Ji’rranah?

Masjid al-Ji’rranah is one of the Miqat points where pilgrims intending to perform Umrah enter into the state of Ihram.

2. Why is Masjid al-Ji’rranah historically significant?

It is significant because the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) camped here after the Battle of Hunayn, distributed war booty, and entered into Ihram before performing Umrah.

3. How did Ji’rranah get its name?

It was named after a woman called Reeta, titled Ji’rranah, who used to spin and unravel her yarn repeatedly. The Qur’an alludes to this act in Surah al-Nahl (16:92).

4. What important event with the Ansar took place at Ji’rranah?

The Prophet (ﷺ) reassured the Ansar when they received fewer spoils of war by telling them:

“While others take sheep and camels, you will take the Messenger of Allah home with you.”
This statement filled them with joy and pride.

5. Is entering Ihram from Ji’rranah Sunnah?

Yes, it is Sunnah to enter Ihram from Ji’rranah, as the Prophet (ﷺ) himself did so after the Battle of Hunayn.

6. What Qur’anic verse was revealed at Ji’rranah?

The verse “And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah…” (2:196) was revealed here.

7. How far is Masjid al-Ji’rranah from Masjid al-Haram?

It is located about 24 km northeast of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah.