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Why is Al Ula Cursed?
Al Ula is a historical region in Saudi Arabia that is rich in cultural and historical significance. It was the home of several ancient civilizations, including the Nabateans, who built the famous city of Petra in Jordan. The region is also known for its stunning rock formations, ancient tombs, and pre-Islamic artifacts. However, despite its beauty and historical importance, Muslims are forbidden from visiting Al Ula. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Al Ula is considered cursed and why Muslims are advised to avoid it.
The Story of Thamud
One of the main reasons why Al Ula is considered cursed is because it was the location of the ancient city of Thamud, whose people were destroyed by Allah for their disobedience. The Quran mentions the destruction of Thamud in several verses, such as:
And to Thamud [We sent] their brother Salih. He said, “O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. He has produced you from the earth and settled you in it, so ask forgiveness of Him and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive.” But they said, “O Salih, you were among us a man of promise before this. Do you forbid us to worship what our fathers worshipped? And indeed we are, about that to which you invite us, in disquieting doubt.” He said, “O my people, have you considered: if I should be upon clear evidence from my Lord and He has given me mercy from Himself, who would protect me from Allah if I disobeyed Him? So you would not increase me except in loss. And O my people, this is the she-camel of Allah – [she is] to you a sign. So leave her to eat within Allah’s land and do not touch her with harm, lest there seize you a painful punishment. But they hamstrung her, so he said, “Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days. That is a promise not to be denied.” So when Our command came, We saved Salih and those who believed with him, by mercy from Us, and [saved them] from the disgrace of that day. Indeed, it is your Lord who is the Powerful, the Exalted in Might. And the shriek seized those who had wronged, and they became within their homes [corpses] fallen prone As if they had never prospered therein. Unquestionably, Thamud denied their Lord; then, away with Thamud. (Quran 11:61-68)
According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet Muhammad also warned his followers against visiting the site of Thamud’s destruction, as it could bring about divine punishment. He ordered them to drink water only from the one well used by the camel of Prophet Salih and forbade them to eat and drink anything from that area and pass through it rather quickly. He said:
Do not enter upon these people who are being punished unless you are weeping; otherwise do not enter upon them lest what befell them should befall you too. (Sahih Muslim 2986)
The Preservation of Islamic Beliefs
Another reason why Muslims are forbidden from visiting Al Ula is to preserve Islamic beliefs. Islam forbids the worship of idols or any other form of polytheism. Al Ula is home to several ancient rock formations that are believed to have been worshipped by the Thamud people and other pre-Islamic tribes. By forbidding Muslims from visiting the site, it helps to prevent them from being influenced by polytheistic beliefs and practices.
The Respect for Islamic Heritage
The Islamic tradition places great importance on the preservation of heritage and history. Al Ula is home to several ancient ruins and artifacts that are of great historical and cultural significance. By forbidding Muslims from visiting the site, it helps to preserve these artifacts and prevent them from being damaged or destroyed.
The Protection of the Site
Al Ula is a fragile and vulnerable site that requires protection and preservation. The Saudi government has taken steps to protect the site by limiting access to it and developing it as a tourist destination with cultural and environmental awareness. By forbidding Muslims from visiting the site, it helps to prevent overcrowding and potential damage to the site.
The Fear of Divine Punishment
Finally, Muslims are forbidden from visiting Al Ula out of fear of divine punishment. The Quran warns against visiting sites of punishment or destruction, as it could bring about Allah’s wrath. This fear serves as a deterrent to prevent Muslims from visiting the site and potentially incurring divine punishment.
Conclusion
Al Ula is a historical region in Saudi Arabia that has a rich and fascinating heritage. However, it is also considered cursed by Muslims because it was the site of Thamud’s destruction by Allah for their disobedience and idolatry. Muslims are forbidden from visiting Al Ula for various reasons, such as preserving Islamic beliefs, respecting Islamic heritage, protecting the site, and fearing divine punishment. Al Ula is a place of awe and wonder, but also of caution and reverence.
FAQs
- Q: What is Al Ula?
- A: Al Ula is a historical region in Saudi Arabia that is home to several ancient civilizations, rock formations, tombs, and artifacts.
- Q: Why is Al Ula cursed?
- A: Al Ula is considered cursed by Muslims because it was the site of Thamud’s destruction by Allah for their disobedience and idolatry.
- Q: Why are Muslims forbidden from visiting Al Ula?
- A: Muslims are forbidden from visiting Al Ula for various reasons, such as preserving Islamic beliefs, respecting Islamic heritage, protecting the site, and fearing divine punishment.
- Q: What are some of the attractions in Al Ula?
- A: Some of the attractions in Al Ula include Hegra, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia; Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building; Elephant Rock, a breathtaking geological phenomenon; and Al Jadidah Arts District, a vibrant cultural hub.
- Q: How can non-Muslims visit Al Ula?
- A: Non-Muslims can visit Al Ula by obtaining a tourist visa from the Saudi government and following the rules and regulations of the site. They can also book tours and packages through the official website of Experience AlUla.
