Jabal Nur holds the Cave of Hira of the first revelation, while Jabal Thawr was a refuge during the migration. Get to know both.
Around the city of Makkah there are several historic sites often visited by pilgrims, two of which are Jabal Nur and Jabal Thawr. Getting to know these two hills helps pilgrims understand the journey of the Prophet's mission (peace be upon him), even though climbing them is not part of the pillars or obligations of umrah and hajj.
Jabal Nur, meaning "the mountain of light," lies to the north-east of Masjid al-Haram. At its summit is the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) often retreated to worship and reflect before he was raised as a prophet. It was in this cave that he received the first revelation, verses 1 to 5 of Surah al-Alaq, through the Angel Jibril. This momentous event marked the beginning of prophethood and the sending down of the Qur'an. Climbing Jabal Nur is quite challenging because the path is steep and time-consuming, so it is recommended only for pilgrims who are genuinely healthy and strong.
Jabal Thawr lies to the south of Makkah and has a cave that is also historic. It was in the Cave of Thawr that the Prophet (peace be upon him), together with his companion Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, hid for several days from the pursuit of the Quraysh during the migration to Madinah. This story is immortalised in the Qur'an, including the description of the tranquillity Allah sent down upon them. Like Jabal Nur, climbing Jabal Thawr requires excellent fitness.
When visiting these places, several important points should be observed. First, straighten your intention: the aim of the visit is to draw lessons from history and strengthen faith, not to seek blessings from the stones, cave, or soil. Second, avoid unfounded beliefs and practices, such as thinking the place can grant wishes or leaving graffiti and objects there.
Third, mind your safety. Because the terrain is steep and sometimes slippery, elderly pilgrims or those with physical limitations should simply view it from a distance and listen to the guide's explanation. Fourth, follow the directions of the muthawwif or guide so the group stays orderly and does not get lost.
For many pilgrims, even gazing at Jabal Nur and Jabal Thawr from afar is enough to stir deep emotion. Imagining the Prophet's struggle in receiving revelation and migrating can nurture a spirit of greater love for Islam. With the right attitude, visiting these historic sites becomes a complement to the pilgrimage that enriches knowledge and strengthens faith.
Practically, if you intend to approach these two hills, prepare adequate supplies such as drinking water, protection from the sun, and comfortable footwear. Temperatures in Makkah can be extremely hot, so maintaining your physical condition is very important to avoid falling ill and disrupting the main worship at Masjid al-Haram.
No less important, do not let visits to these historic places reduce the portion of core worship, namely increasing prayer, tawaf, and supplication at Masjid al-Haram while in Makkah. Historical visits are complementary and educational, not the main purpose of the journey. Reflect on how the stories of the Cave of Hira and the Cave of Thawr teach earnestness in worship and steadfastness in facing trials. With this understanding, every place you visit will increase your love for Allah and His Messenger, rather than becoming merely a spot for photographs.
