Hijrah means migration. It is the migration of the Prophet from Makkah to Madinah. This is a very important event in the history of Islam. The living conditions of the Muslims in Makkah were very bad. They lived in difficulties, problems and persecution. They were no able to practise their religion freely.
In Madinah, they were able to build an Islamic government. They were able to do many things. Hijrah gave them the chance to:
1. build a mosque – The mosque of the Prophet in Madinah brought the Muslims together. They were able to meet and interact. That was how they got to know one another. In the mosque, they were also able to exchange ideas. They were able to learn how to worship and how to acquire various skills. Judgement was conducted in the mosque. Muslims learnt business skills besides other things. Important events and celebrations were also held in the mosque. The mosque was not only a place for praying but also the centre for Islamic activities. The mosques today should also be the centre for Islamic activities and for worshiping.
2. build brotherhood – The earlier Muslims made great sacrifices. They left their home town, their wealth and their property because of their faith. They sacrificed all those things in order to be free to practise their religion. The Qur'an explains: ‘(And there is also a share in the booty) for the poor emigrants, who were expelled from their homes and their property, while seeking Grace from Allah and His good pleasure, and aiding Allah and His messenger: such are indeed the truthful.’ (Q59:8)