The Significance of the Names

The mosque is called Masjid Al-Jinn (Mosque of the Jinn) because it was built near the place where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) met with a group of jinn, who listened to his recitation of the Qur’an and pledged allegiance (bay‘ah) to him. During that meeting, the Prophet (PBUH) was accompanied by ‘Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud (may Allah be pleased with him), to whom the Prophet said: “Do not move from your place,” and drew a line around him for protection. The mosque is also known by two other names: (Masjid Al-Haras (Mosque of the Guards)): because the chief of the night guard of Makkah used to patrol the city and end his rounds at this mosque, where he eventually passed away; the mosque was then associated with him and his guards. (Masjid Al-Bay‘ah (Mosque of the Pledge)): as it was the site where the jinn pledged allegiance to the Prophet (PBUH).

Construction and Renovation in the Saudi Era

The mosque was first built in the early third century AH with a simple structure, and it underwent several phases of demolition and reconstruction over time. In the Saudi era, the mosque was renovated twice: 

(First renovation): in 1399 AH (1979 CE). 

(Second renovation): during the reign of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz (may Allah have mercy on him) in 1421 AH (2001 CE), when it was rebuilt in a modern Islamic architectural style.

 Today, Masjid Al-Jinn remains a frequently visited historical mosque, reflecting an extraordinary moment in Islamic history.