Abu Shuraih said, "When `Amr bin Sa`id was sending the troops to Mecca (to fight `Abdullah bin Az- Zubair) I said to him, 'O chief! Allow me to tell you what the Prophet (ﷺ) said on the day following the conquests of Mecca. My ears heard and my heart comprehended, and I saw him with my own eyes, when he said it. He glorified and praised Allah and then said, "Allah and not the people has made Mecca a sanctuary. So anybody who has belief in Allah and the Last Day (i.e. a Muslim) should neither shed blood in it nor cut down its trees. If anybody argues that fighting is allowed in Mecca as Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did fight (in Mecca), tell him that Allah gave permission to His Apostle, but He did not give it to you. The Prophet (ﷺ) added: Allah allowed me only for a few hours on that day (of the conquest) and today (now) its sanctity is the same (valid) as it was before. So it is incumbent upon those who are present to convey it (this information) to those who are absent." Abu- Shuraih was asked, "What did `Amr reply?" He said `Amr said, "O Abu Shuraih! I know better than you (in this respect). Mecca does not give protection to one who disobeys (Allah) or runs after committing murder, or theft (and takes refuge in Mecca).
The Sacred Status of Mecca
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 104 establishes the inviolable sanctity of Mecca as divinely ordained by Allah Himself. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explicitly stated that Mecca's sacred status predates Islam and remains perpetually binding upon all believers until the Day of Judgment.
Prohibitions Within the Sanctuary
The hadith clearly prohibits two major violations: shedding blood and cutting trees within Mecca's boundaries. This sanctity extends to all forms of violence, hunting, and destruction of natural resources, making Mecca a place of peace and security for all.
Distinction Between Prophetic and General Permission
The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically addressed potential arguments that since he fought in Mecca, others may do so. He clarified that his military action during the Conquest of Mecca was by special divine permission limited to that specific occasion, not establishing a general precedent for warfare within the sacred precincts.
The Duty of Conveying Knowledge
The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized the Islamic principle of tabligh (conveying knowledge) by instructing those present to inform others about Mecca's sanctity. This establishes the communal responsibility in preserving religious knowledge and sacred laws.
Scholarly Interpretation of Exceptions
Amr bin Sa'id's response reflects classical scholarly understanding that Mecca's protection does not extend to those actively engaged in major crimes like murder or theft. This demonstrates how Islamic law balances the sanctity of places with the requirements of justice and public safety.