Ibn ‘Abbas reported God’s messenger as saying on the day of the conquest of Mecca, “There is no hijra, but only jihad and intention ; and when you are called to battle, go forth.’’ He also said on the day of the conquest of Mecca, “God made this town sacred on the day He created the heavens and the earth, so it is sacred by the sacredness conferred on it by God till the day of resurrection. Fighting in it has not been lawful to anyone before me and it has been made lawful for me only during one hour on one day, so it is sacred by the sacredness conferred on it by God till the day of resurrection. Its thorns are not to be cut, its game is not to be molested, things dropped are to be picked up only by one who publicly announces it, and its fresh herbage is not to be cut.” Ibn ‘Abbas made the suggestion, “Except the rush, messenger of God, for it is useful for their blacksmiths and for their houses.” He then said, “Except the rush.” (Bukhari and Muslim.) A version by Abu Huraira has, “Its trees are not to be lopped, and only one who announces it may pick up anything which falls in it.”
The Abrogation of Hijra and Sanctity of Mecca
The Prophet's declaration "There is no hijra" signifies the termination of emigration from Mecca after its conquest, as the city had returned to Muslim sovereignty. Hijra, which was obligatory when Muslims were persecuted in Mecca, now transformed into jihad and sincere intention. The spiritual migration continues through righteous deeds and devotion to Allah.
The Eternal Sacred Status of Mecca
Mecca's sanctity is divinely ordained from creation until Judgment Day. The Prophet emphasized that fighting was never permitted there except briefly during the conquest by divine exception. This establishes Mecca's unique status as the Haram (Sanctuary) where even vegetation and wildlife enjoy protection.
The prohibition against cutting trees, molesting game, and collecting lost property without announcement preserves the sanctuary's sanctity. Ibn Abbas's exception for rush grass demonstrates how religious texts accommodate human needs while maintaining sacred principles.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
These rulings establish Mecca as an inviolable sanctuary where violence is forbidden and natural resources are protected. The regulations concerning lost property ensure communal responsibility and prevent theft. The preservation of wildlife and vegetation reflects Islam's environmental consciousness within sacred spaces.