Explore the historical landscapes where this journey unfolded.
Situated in the west of the Arabian Peninsula, the region encompassing Mecca and Medina is defined by an arid, rocky landscape and a harsh desert climate.
Here, the scorching heat of the day gives way to a piercing cold by night. The terrain is predominantly cracked, stony, and sandy, often swept by sudden sandstorms.
While Mecca is nestled in a dry, rocky valley encircled by mountains, Medina offers a more hospitable environment, blessed with date palm groves and water sources. Surrounding these key cities lie smaller settlements such as Ta’if, Hunayn, Nakhla, Quba, and Safra. In these remote areas, banditry and caravan raids were a frequent occurrence.
To survive the elements, journeys were typically undertaken during the cool of the late afternoon or the early hours of dawn, with travelers seeking shelter during the blazing heat of midday. This unforgiving geography forged powerful traits in its people: patience, resilience, and an unbreakable bond of tribal solidarity.
Mecca (The Era of Ignorance)
Nestled in a dry, rocky valley surrounded by mountains in the west of Arabia, Mecca possessed a scorching and arid climate.
Anchored by the Kaaba, it stood as the beating heart of both trade and religious life. However, the monotheistic legacy inherited from Prophet Abraham and Prophet Ishmael had been all but forgotten. The Kaaba was filled with idols, transforming the sanctuary into the epicenter of paganism.
The city was ruled by the Quraysh tribe, with its various clans sharing the responsibilities of trade and the sacred duties of the Kaaba. Critical decisions concerning the city were made by tribal chieftains gathered at Dar al-Nadwa (The Council House).
In this society, power and prestige were measured by lineage, wealth, and tribal affiliation; it was a world where the strong prevailed. With its bustling trade caravans, vibrant fairs, and prestigious poetry assemblies, Mecca was one of the most dynamic and respected cities of the Arabian Peninsula.
Located to the northeast of Mecca, Mount Hira is today known as Jabal al-Nūr (the Mountain of Light). It rises approximately 640 meters and is clearly visible from the city. The Cave of Hira at its peak is the place where the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.V.) withdrew in seclusion for contemplation before the revelation. The first revelation was sent down here, making it the starting point of divine revelation in Islamic history and giving it immense significance.
Located in the center of Mecca on the eastern side of the Masjid al-Haram, Safa Hill is an exceptionally significant place in Islamic history. In the early period of his prophethood, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.V.) ascended Safa Hill to address his relatives and the people of Mecca, openly inviting them to Islam for the first time. This event is regarded as one of the starting points of the history of the prophetic call (tabligh).
In the earliest period of Islam, Dar al-Arqam served as the first secret center of learning and invitation (da‘wah) for the Muslims in Mecca. Prophet Muhammad (S.A.V.) taught Islam here, recited the verses of the Qur’an, and educated his companions. It was also used as a place of solidarity and worship for the early Muslim community.
In pre-Islamic Mecca, Dar al-Nadwa was the council where the leading figures of the Quraysh gathered. State affairs, trade matters, decisions of war, and social issues were discussed here. It was also the venue for important ceremonies such as marriages, agreements, and official gatherings. Dar al-Nadwa was regarded as the political and administrative center of Mecca.
Located in the Hejaz region, Medina—then known as Yathrib—was a city of fertile lands and lush date palm groves, offering a greener and more water-rich environment than Mecca.
Its population was composed of two main Arab tribes, the Aws and the Khazraj, alongside three Jewish tribes: the Banu Qaynuqa, Banu Nadir, and Banu Qurayza.
Constant rivalries and blood feuds plagued these tribes, leaving the city without a strong, centralized leadership. Unlike the unified authority of Mecca, this fragmented political structure made it far more difficult to collectively suppress a new religious call.
Distinct from the trade-centric economy of Mecca, life in Medina was based on production—spanning agriculture, livestock, and craftsmanship such as blacksmithing—resulting in a more diverse economic landscape. Furthermore, based on their scriptures, the Jews and Christians frequently voiced their belief in the imminent arrival of a new Prophet. This atmosphere of spiritual anticipation created a fertile ground for Islam to take root and strengthen rapidly in Medina.
Built shortly after the Muslims’ migration to Medina, it is the most significant structure constructed under the direction of the Messenger of Allah (S.A.V.). It served not only as a place of worship but also as a center for social, political, and educational activities. Prophet Muhammad (S.A.V.) personally took part in its construction. Within this mosque, congregational prayers were performed, the Qur’an was taught, guests were hosted, and it functioned as an administrative center where important matters—such as warfare, peace treaties, tribal affairs, and disputes between individuals—were discussed and resolved.
The small villages located in the Usfan region frequently faced security issues during that period. Even Quraysh caravans passing through the area would travel with armed guards. The village from which the listener characters depart in the opening scene of the film is designed to reflect the conditions and hardships of the time.
