Saudi Arabia Uncovers Rare Early-Islamic Inscriptions in Madinah
The Saudi Heritage Commission has made a significant archaeological breakthrough in the Al Mahd governorate of the Madinah region, identifying 1,774 distinct historical findings. Among the most notable discoveries is an ancient stone inscription featuring the name of Umar ibn Al-Khattab, the second Caliph of Islam. The engraving, which reads, "Allah is the Protector of Umar ibn al-Khattab in this world and the Hereafter. There is no god but Allah," offers a fascinating window into the early days of the Islamic state and provides historians with invaluable new data regarding the era of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Following the conclusion of its second season of archaeological surveys, the commission documented these traces of civilization across five key locations, including Al Suwayriqiyah and Al Omaq. The comprehensive list of findings spans 461 Islamic inscriptions, 34 Thamudic scripts, various stone structures, ancient wells, and over 1,200 rock art panels. These discoveries highlight the strategic importance of the region during the tenure of Umar ibn Al-Khattab, who served as a primary companion to the Prophet and presided over the rapid expansion of the Islamic empire into a global powerhouse between 634 and 644 CE.