Mecca
Officially known as the Holy City of Mecca, it is one of the prominent cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, located in the western region at a longitude of 39.81667 degrees east of Greenwich and a latitude of 21.41667 degrees north of the equator. Covering an area of 850 square kilometers, Mecca was established over two thousand years ago, with Arabic being its official language and the Saudi Riyal serving as its official currency.
Names of Mecca
Mecca
The name “Mecca” has several interpretations:
- Reflecting the scarcity of water and the efforts of its inhabitants.
- It is a place that witnesses the downfall of those who oppress others within its bounds.
- Due to its ability to attract people from all directions.
The reference in the Holy Quran that supports the name Mecca is: (And it is He who restrained their hands from you and your hands from them within [the area of] Mecca after he had given you victory over them. And Allah, of what you do, is Seeing.) [Al-Fath: 24].
The City
This name is attributed to several reasons:
- It is regarded as the center of all regions.
- It is the area that Allah has honored.
A Quranic reference that confirms the name “The City” is: (I swear by this city.) [Al-Balad: 1].
Bakka
The name “Bakka” can be explained through various interpretations:
- It diminishes the pride of the arrogant.
- It signifies the bustling congregation of people.
- It symbolizes the subjugation of tyrants.
Evidence from the Quran supporting the name Bakkah is: (Indeed, the first House [of worship] established for mankind was that at Bakkah, blessed and a guidance for the worlds.) [Al-Imran: 96].
Ma’ad
The name “Ma’ad” signifies a return to one’s homeland.
The Quranic reference supporting this name is: (Indeed, He who has ordained upon you the Quran will bring you back to Ma’ad. Say, “My Lord is most knowing of who has come with guidance and who is in manifest error.”) [Al-Qasas: 85].
Mother of Cities
This name has several explanations:
- It serves as the Qibla (direction of prayer) for the entire Ummah.
- It houses the House of Allah.
- It is one of the most significant cities in terms of honor.
- It is considered the oldest location on earth, as the land was spread out from beneath it.
The Quranic evidence supporting the name “Mother of Cities” is: (And thus We have revealed to you an Arabic Quran that you may warn the Mother of Cities and those around it…) [Ash-Shura: 7].
Other Names
- Valley: This name is derived from its location as a relief between hills and mountains.
- Safe City: It was named so because it is secure from invasions and enemies.
- The Sacred Mosque: This name is ascribed due to the presence of the Sacred Mosque within the city.
- Village: Named because it is a gathering place for many people.
- Others include The Ancient House and Tehamah.
General Information about Mecca
- Mecca is situated at an elevation of 277 meters above sea level.
- It is located 120 kilometers east of Taif, approximately 400 kilometers southwest from Medina, and about 72 kilometers from Jeddah and the Red Sea.
- The city is characterized by a hot and arid desert climate, primarily due to its distance from the Red Sea coast and its location in the tropical region. In winter, it experiences warm temperatures.