APRIMITIVEPLACE – Madain Saleh, also known as Al Ula, is an ancient archaeological site located in northwestern Saudi Arabia. The site is known for its stunning ancient remains, including beautifully carved rock tombs, temples, and other structures. However, behind its beauty, Madain Saleh hides a tragic tale that has led to it being forbidden for Muslims to visit.
Madain Saleh is believed to have been the home of the Thamud people, an ancient Arab civilization that lived from the 7th century BC to the 1st century AD. The Thamud were known for their physical strength and their skill in stone carving. However, they were also known to be a proud and stubborn people, even refusing to worship Allah SWT and follow the teachings of Prophet Saleh AS.
Prophet Saleh AS was sent by Allah SWT to guide the Thamud to the right path. However, the Thamud remained steadfast in their error. They even challenged Prophet Saleh AS to prove the power of Allah SWT by sending down a punishment in the form of a miraculous female camel. Prophet Saleh AS fulfilled their request, and the camel appeared before the Thamud.
However, the Thamud instead killed and slaughtered the female camel. For their pride and error, Allah SWT sent down a terrible punishment to the Thamud. In an instant, they were struck by lightning and destroyed by a powerful earthquake.
Since that time, Madain Saleh has become a cursed city and is avoided by Muslims. Prophet Muhammad SAW even passed through the area during his hijrah from Mecca to Medina. However, he did not stop in Madain Saleh and even refused to drink from its water.
The prohibition for Muslims to visit Madain Saleh is not without reason. It is believed that the place is still inhabited by jinn who are the remnants of the destroyed Thamud. In addition, the eerie atmosphere and mystical aura that envelops Madain Saleh are also factors why Muslims are forbidden to visit it.
Despite being forbidden to visit, Madain Saleh remains an important and fascinating archaeological site for archaeologists and tourists. The ancient remains found there provide a glimpse into the life and culture of the Thamud, as well as being a stark reminder of their tragic tale.(MIS)
