Bir Aris Well (بئر أريس): The Historic Ring Well Near Quba Mosque in Madinah

Bir Aris Well (بئر أريس) – A Sacred Historical Site in Madinah

Bir Aris (بئر أريس), also known as Bir Khatam (The Ring Well), is one of the historically significant Islamic sites in Madinah Munawwarah. It is located near the Quba Mosque (Masjid Quba) and holds deep spiritual and historical importance in Islamic history.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Well of Bir Aris

According to authentic narrations, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ once sat beside this well, lifting the cloth from his blessed legs and placing his feet inside the well. Beside him sat Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA) and Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), following the same manner as the Prophet ﷺ.

Later, Uthman ibn Affan (RA) arrived and sat on the opposite side of the well. During this gathering, the Prophet ﷺ gave glad tidings of Jannah (Paradise) to Abu Bakr (RA), Umar (RA), and Uthman (RA). However, regarding Uthman (RA), the Prophet ﷺ also foretold a difficult trial and hardship that would come upon him.

Why Is It Called Bir Khatam (The Ring Well)?

Bir Aris became famously known as “Bir Khatam” or “The Ring Well” because the seal ring of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fell into this well.

The blessed ring remained with the Prophet ﷺ until his passing. Afterwards, it was passed successively to:

• Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (RA)
• Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA)
• Uthman ibn Affan (RA)

During the caliphate of Uthman (RA), the ring accidentally slipped into the well. Extensive efforts were made for three days to recover it, but unfortunately, it was never found.

Many Islamic historians mention this incident as a symbolic beginning of future trials (fitnah) and political instability in the Muslim Ummah.

A Remarkable Incident Related to Zayd ibn Kharijah (RA)

Islamic narrations mention an extraordinary event involving Zayd ibn Kharijah (RA). After his passing, people reportedly heard sounds from his chest, and he spoke words interpreted by scholars as warnings and signs regarding leadership and future trials in the Muslim community.

Among the statements mentioned:

“Abu Bakr As-Siddiq — weak in himself but strong in Allah’s command. Umar ibn Al-Khattab — strong and trustworthy. Uthman ibn Affan — following their path.”

This event reportedly occurred during the caliphate period of Uthman (RA), prior to the loss of the Prophet’s ring.

Historical Architecture of Bir Aris

Historically, Bir Aris was visible and constructed with black stone. Historical records mention:

• Approximate depth: 6.3 meters
• Width: 2.2 meters
• Water level: approximately 1.3 meters

The water level changed depending on rainfall.

In 1317 CE (714 Hijri), a staircase was built to allow access to the bottom of the well. During the Ottoman era, domes were constructed above the well, and additional structures were built for the caretakers of the Quba Mosque.

Modern Changes to the Site

In 1964 (1384 Hijri), the municipality of Madinah removed the domes and covered the well with marble stones. Recently, the exact location has been marked again with a circular sign inside a square structure, preserving its historical identity.

Visit Bir Aris During Your Madinah Ziyarat

Pilgrims visiting Madinah often include Bir Aris Well in their Islamic Ziyarat tour, especially when visiting Masjid Quba. Understanding the historical and spiritual importance of this place makes the journey more meaningful.

AR Rahim Travels offers guided Madinah Ziyarat tours to help pilgrims explore sacred Islamic landmarks with proper historical understanding.