What Is Jannat al-Baqi?
Jannat al-Baqi (Arabic: جنة البقيع), also known as Baqīʿ al-Gharqad, is a historic cemetery in Madina, Saudi Arabia, and one of the holiest burial grounds in Islam.
It was established during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWA), who personally selected it as the burial ground for his companions and family.
It is the resting place of:
- Imam Hassan al-Mujtaba (AS), the second Imam and grandson of the Prophet (SAWA)
- Imam Zayn al-Abideen (AS), the fourth Imam, known for his worship and his work Sahifa Sajjadiyya
- Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), the fifth Imam, renowned for his knowledge and tafsir
- Imam Jaʿfar al-Sadiq (AS), the sixth Imam and teacher of major scholars across all schools of thought
- Fatima bint Asad, the mother of Imam Ali (AS)
- Many other companions and family members of the Holy Prophet (SAWA)
Before 1925, their graves were marked by beautifully built shrines.
It is said that over 10,000 companions and early Muslims are buried in Baqi.
The Destruction of Jannat al-Baqi on 8 Shawwal
100 years ago today, on April 21, 1925 (8 Shawwal 1344 AH), the shrines in Jannat al-Baqi were demolished.
The destruction outraged Muslims around the world, especially Shia Muslims, who were deeply concerned by the erasure of Islamic heritage sacred to so many.
Before this, Jannat al-Baqi had been a place of reverence and prayer for over 1,200 years.
Pilgrims would visit, offer salams, and learn about the lives of those buried there.
Its destruction caused pain and sorrow across the Muslim world.
And to this day, many still call for its respectful restoration.
Did You Know?
- The Prophet (PBUH) himself would often visit Baqee, make dua for those buried there, and encourage others to do the same.
- The cemetery was once surrounded by beautiful structures, domes, and inscriptions that marked each grave with dignity and care.
- Some historical records describe four white domes that stood over the graves of the four Imams of Ahlul Bayt (AS).
Today, the entire cemetery is walled off and unmarked. Visitors are not allowed to enter or pray near the graves.
Why It Still Matters
The legacy of those buried in Baqi is not just historical.
For many believers, visiting the graves of the Imams and companions is a spiritual act rooted in love, respect, and reflection.
These individuals gave their lives to uphold Islam, to guide us with knowledge and mercy, and to stand against injustice.
The destruction wiped away centuries of Islamic architecture and heritage linked to the Ahlul Bayt (AS).
At The Zahra Trust, we believe in preserving sacred memory, upholding dignity, and serving those who are forgotten or silenced.
To care about Jannat al-Baqi is to care about truth, remembrance, and the right to honour our spiritual heritage.
No restoration, recognition, or apology has ever been issued. The call to rebuild Jannat al-Baqi continues to this day.
How Muslims Around the World Commemorate 8 Shawwal
Each year, on the 8th of Shawwal, Muslims around the world mark the anniversary of the destruction of Jannat al-Baqee event with:
- Public demonstrations and peaceful marches
- Lectures and educational events in mosques and Islamic centers
- Dua and recitations in memory of those buried at Baqi.
Despite the passage of time, the call remains: Rebuild Jannat al-Baqi.
What You Can Do to Honour Jannat al-Baqi
We are not helpless in the face of this loss. There are ways we can respond:
Learn and Teach
Study the lives of the Ahlul Bayt (AS) and their legacy. Share their stories with your family, children, and community.
Make Dua
Include Jannat al-Baqi in your prayers, especially on the 8th of Shawwal. Ask Allah (SWT) to return dignity to the resting places of those buried there.
Give in Their Honour
Support programmes inspired by the Ahlul Bayt (AS) such as orphan care, clean water access, and sustainable development.
The legacy of the Ahlul Bayt (AS) lives through our actions.
Raise Awareness
Use your voice to speak about this issue with respect and knowledge.
Share this article.
Start a conversation.
Don’t forget about Jannat al-Baqi.
