The Garden of Knowledge

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

17 Rajab 1446/17 January 2025

All praise is due to Allah, the Cherisher, Sustainer, Nourisher and Provider of the entire creation. May peace, blessings and salutations be upon our Beloved Prophet Muhammed ﷺ.

Alhamdulillah, it is only through the grace of Allah that I was able to visit the blessed land of Tarim. Over the next 3 weeks I will be sharing my experience in Tarim.

Many people may not know about Tarim. Where is Tarim, and why is it considered a blessed land?

Tarim, a gem nestled in Yemen’s Hadramaut Valley in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula., is a city steeped in Islamic scholarship and spirituality.

 A Land of Knowledge and Scholars

Tarim has long been associated with Islamic scholarship and spirituality. It is home to numerous scholars and religious institutions, including the renowned Dar al-Mustafa and the Ribats (traditional schools). The city’s dedication to preserving Islamic knowledge has earned it the title “Al-Madina al-Ilmiyya” (The City of Knowledge).

Also known as the city of As-Siddiq – During the caliphate of Sayyidina Abu Bakr (R.A) a number of tribes and towns in Hadramaut (as well as elsewhere in the Arabian Peninsula) refused to pay the obligatory alms of Zakat, some even left Islam completely. Tarim was the exception to this, leading Sayyindina Abu Bakr (R.A) to make a special supplication for the city, for three specific things: first, that it be preserved until the end of time; second, that water be available in abundance for this desert land; and finally, that scholars come forth from it like shoots after the rain.

 The Blessed Legacy of Ahlul Bayt in Tarim

Tarim holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims due to its strong connection to the Ahlul Bayt (the family of the Prophet Muhammed ﷺ). Descendants of the Prophet Muhammed ﷺ, particularly from the lineage of Imam Ahmad bin Isa al-Muhajir, migrated to Hadhramaut and settled in Tarim. They played a pivotal role in spreading Islam and fostering a tradition of knowledge and spirituality.

The city is known for its reverence for the Prophet ﷺ and his family. The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ said:

“I leave among you two things: the Book of Allah and my family. If you hold fast to them, you will never go astray.” 

(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 3786)

This Hadith highlights the significance of the Prophet’s family, whose presence and teachings have been deeply rooted in Tarim’s spiritual fabric.

Historical Significance: Tarim has long been a centre of Islamic scholarship and culture, particularly renowned for its Sufi traditions. The region was influential in spreading Islamic teachings, particularly those of the Shafi’i school of thought and Sufism. It became a prominent centre for learning during the Islamic Golden Age and remains known for its rich educational legacy.

Architecture: The city is particularly famous for its distinctive mudbrick architecture, with multi-story buildings that have an iconic appearance, often with whitewashed façades and ornate decorations. The architectural style of Tarim and other towns in Hadramaut reflects the region’s long-standing ties to ancient trade routes and a unique fusion of Arabian and East African influences.

Trade and Commerce: Historically, Tarim was an essential part of the trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula to East Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Merchants in Tarim traded spices, perfumes, and other goods, contributing to its prosperity.

Modern-day Influence: Today, Tarim is still seen as a religious and cultural beacon in Yemen, attracting students and scholars from around the world, particularly those seeking to learn about Islamic teachings and Sufism.

Tarim’s significance in Islam is undeniable. Its legacy of knowledge, connection to the Ahlul Bayt, and its spiritual atmosphere make it a beacon of light for Muslims worldwide. The Prophetic praise (as mentioned below) of Yemen and its people, along with the enduring contributions of Tarim’s scholars and saints, affirm its status as a city of immense virtue.

Ahadith Regarding Tarim (Yemen)

Faith and Wisdom Are Yemeni

The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ said:

“The people of Yemen have come to you. They are gentler and more soft-hearted. Faith is Yemeni, and wisdom is Yemeni.” 

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 62, Hadith 5147

The Breath of Mercy from Yemen

The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ said:

“I find the breath of the Merciful (Ar-Rahman) coming to me from Yemen.” 

Reference: Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 11334

The Best of Men Are in Yemen

The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ said:

“The best of men are the men of Yemen; belief is Yemeni, and I am Yemeni.” 

Reference: Tabarani, Mu’jam al-Kabir, Hadith 10048

Support from Yemen

The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ prayed for Yemen and its people saying:

“O Allah, bless our Sham and our Yemen.” The Companions said, “And our Najd?” The Prophet ﷺ repeated, “O Allah, bless our Sham and our Yemen.” 

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 17, Hadith 667

Yemen and the Time of Trials

The Prophet Muhammed ﷺ said:

“At the time of trials, faith will be in Yemen.” 

Reference: Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 8924

Although all of the abovementioned ahadith may not be authentic, in virtue they reflect the unique status of Yemen—including regions like Tarim—as lands of faith, wisdom, and spiritual blessing.

In sha Allah next we will share personal reflections and experiences from Tarim.

May Allah ﷻ accept our efforts from us and grant us understanding In Sha Allah!