Virtues of Madinah - Sahih al-Bukhari 1867

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Medina is a sanctuary from that place to that. Its trees should not be cut and no heresy should be innovated nor any sin should be committed in it, and whoever innovates in it an heresy or commits sins (bad deeds), then he will incur the curse of Allah, the angels, and all the people."

Commentary on the Sacred Status of Madinah

This noble hadith establishes the inviolable sanctity of Madinah al-Munawwarah, which Allah has designated as a sacred sanctuary (haram) like Makkah. The boundaries mentioned "from that place to that" refer to the specific geographical limits defined by the Prophet himself, between the two volcanic tracts known as 'Air and Thawr.

The prohibition against cutting trees emphasizes the environmental sanctity of this blessed city, where even its flora enjoys divine protection. This injunction extends beyond mere conservation to recognizing that the entire ecosystem of Madinah partakes in its sacred character.

The severe warning against innovation (bid'ah) and sin highlights Madinah's role as the cradle of pure Islamic tradition. As the city where revelation was completed and the Sunnah established, introducing religious innovations here constitutes a particular affront to the legacy of prophethood.

Scholarly Interpretation of the Curse

The comprehensive curse mentioned—from Allah, the angels, and all people—indicates the gravity of violating Madinah's sanctity. Scholars explain that this curse manifests through divine displeasure, angelic abandonment of the sinner's support, and human rejection of such transgressors.

Imam al-Qurtubi notes that this protection extends to preserving Madinah's spiritual atmosphere from corrupt beliefs and immoral practices, maintaining it as a pure center for Islamic learning and worship for generations to come.