Mount Thawr in Makkah: A Symbol of Faith and Divine Protection
Mount Thawr (Jabal Thawr) rises approximately 760 metres above sea level in the southern outskirts of Makkah. It is home to the Cave of Thawr (Ghar Thawr), where Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) took shelter for three days and nights during the Hijrah from Mecca to Medina. This mountain stands as a powerful symbol of reliance on Allah (tawakkul) and divine protection.
The story of the Hijrah
In 622 CE, after 13 years of persecution in Mecca, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) received divine permission to migrate to Medina. The Quraysh, having plotted to assassinate him, sent trackers to find him. Instead of heading directly north to Medina, the Prophet and Abu Bakr went south to Mount Thawr, a strategic decision that confused their pursuers.
The cave, a narrow opening near the summit, barely large enough for two people, became their hiding place. Abu Bakr entered first to check for danger and was bitten by a scorpion but remained silent so as not to alarm the Prophet. When the Quraysh trackers reached the cave entrance, they found a spider's web across the opening and a dove nesting nearby, leading them to conclude no one had entered recently.
Quranic reference
Allah immortalized this event in the Quran: "If you do not aid him, Allah has already aided him when those who disbelieved had driven him out as one of two, when they were in the cave and he said to his companion: Do not grieve, indeed Allah is with us. Then Allah sent down His tranquillity upon him and supported him with soldiers you did not see" (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:40).
The phrase "Do not grieve, indeed Allah is with us" (la tahzan, inna Allaha ma'ana) has become one of the most quoted expressions of faith and trust in Allah. It encapsulates the essence of tawakkul: taking all necessary precautions (the strategic detour, the concealment) while placing ultimate trust in Allah's plan and protection.
The cave and the mountain today
The Cave of Thawr is located near the summit of the mountain and can be reached by a steep, rocky path. The ascent takes approximately 1 to 2 hours depending on fitness level and is quite demanding, especially during the hot months. The path is not paved and requires sturdy footwear. The cave itself is small, with a low ceiling, and visitors can see the narrow space where the Prophet and Abu Bakr sheltered.
From the summit, there are panoramic views of Makkah and the surrounding mountains. The area around the base of the mountain has been developed with roads and residential areas as the city has expanded. While visiting the cave is not part of the Hajj or Umrah rites, many pilgrims choose to make the climb for its spiritual and historical significance.
Practical tips for visitors
Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Bring at least two litres of water per person. Wear hiking shoes or sturdy sports shoes (not sandals). The climb is not recommended for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. There are no facilities on the mountain, so prepare accordingly.
At Noussouki Travel, we include Mount Thawr in our extended Makkah heritage tours for physically fit pilgrims. Consult the Hisn al-Muslim for supplications. Contact our team to plan your pilgrimage. Check visa requirements and explore all our destinations.