Should a pilgrim visit the Prophet's grave?

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Q 7: Is it obligatory for pilgrims, men and women, to visit the grave of the Messenger (peace be upon him), Al-Baqi`, Uhud Mount, and Masjid of Quba' or is it restricted to men only?

A: It is not obligatory for pilgrims - men or women - to visit the grave of the Messenger (peace be upon him) or Al-Baqi`. Rather, it is prohibited to travel for the purpose of visiting graves. This is absolutely prohibited for women, even if it does not involve traveling. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: There should be no travel to visit a Masjid (mosque) except for three: this Masjid of mine (the Prophet's Mosque), Al-Masjid Al-Haram (the Sacred Mosque), and Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa (in Jerusalem). (Agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) He (peace be upon him) had also cursed women who visit graves. However, it suffices for women to offer Salah (prayer) in Al-Masjid Al-Nabawy and convey peace and blessings upon the Prophet continuously, in and outside the Masjid.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.

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