The sundial at the Prophet’s Mosque embodies a facet of the scientific heritage that once enabled the precise determination of time and prayer times before the widespread use of mechanical clocks and modern timekeeping methods.
It remains a testament to the advancement of astronomy and mathematics in Islamic civilization.
The sundial was built in 1335 AH and operates by tracking the sun’s shadow, which moves across calibrated markings to indicate time accurately based on the geographical location of the Prophet’s Mosque. It was one of the precise methods used to determine prayer times at the time.
Located beside the Green Dome at the Prophet’s Mosque, the sundial continues to hold historical and scientific significance as a landmark documenting an important stage in the evolution of timekeeping.
It also reflects the great importance Muslims placed on the precise determination of time, particularly for performing acts of worship. It remains a prominent testament to the use of astronomical science in serving the Prophet’s Mosque over the decades.
Source: Riyadh Daily