Visiting and praying in the Prophet's Mosque

Q: I was born in 13/4/1903 A.D.; I am now eighty years old, but Allah has not willed it for me yet during this lifetime to visit the Honored Ka`bah or the Prophet’s Mosque. Out of my love for the Prophet (peace be upon him), I invoke Allah’s blessings upon him day and night. I see him often in my dreams and the last was today. Today I only felt that I wanted to disclose this. (Part No. 1; Page No. 432) I have a simple home and I am blessed with only one daughter and her orphaned child. They live with me to take care of me. I live on a modest income and I yearn so much to visit the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). Should I sell this house to enjoy visiting the beloved Prophet?

A: First: We hope that your dreams be good dreams that come true. Second: It is not permissible to travel specifically to visit the grave of the Prophet (peace be upon him). What is permissible is to visit his Masjid (mosque) and pray there; and this visit is not obligatory. It is also permissible for any Muslim visiting the Prophet’s Masjid to greet him and his two Companions (Abu Bakr and Umar, may Allah be pleased with them both). However, you should not sell your dwelling house for the sake of this visit. Obeying the Prophet (peace be upon him) and adhering to his Sunnah at any time or place, in hope of being rewarded by Allah, is a means of attaining happiness and success in this world and in the Hereafter.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.