Masjid Addas: The Grapes of Mercy TAIF

Masjid Addas (مسجد عداس) is one of the most spiritually significant Ziyarat sites in Taif, Saudi Arabia. It commemorates the moving encounter between Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and Addas, a Christian servant from Nineveh (modern-day Iraq), after the Prophet ﷺ endured one of the most difficult moments of his life in Taif. The mosque stands near the location of the orchard where Addas offered the Prophet ﷺ a bunch of grapes—a simple act of kindness that became a timeless symbol of mercy, compassion, and guidance. Historical Background Around the 10th year of Prophethood, after the deaths of Khadijah (RA) and Abu Talib, the Prophet ﷺ travelled to Taif to invite its people to Islam. Instead of welcoming him, the leaders rejected his message and incited people to insult and stone him until his blessed feet bled. Exhausted, he sought refuge in an orchard owned by Utbah and Shaybah ibn Rabi'ah. Feeling pity for his condition, they instructed their Christian servant, Addas, to take a bunch of fresh grapes to the Prophet ﷺ. The Grapes of Mercy Before eating the grapes, the Prophet ﷺ said: بِسْمِ اللَّهِ "In the name of Allah." Addas was astonished because he had never heard anyone in that region begin eating with these words. The Prophet ﷺ asked him where he was from. Addas replied: "I am from Nineveh." The Prophet ﷺ then said: "The town of the righteous man, Yunus (Jonah) ibn Matta." Surprised that an Arab knew about Prophet Yunus (AS), Addas asked how he knew him. The Prophet ﷺ replied: "He is my brother. He was a Prophet, and I am also a Prophet." Deeply moved by this conversation, Addas recognized the truth of the Prophet ﷺ and is reported to have kissed his head, hands, and feet in respect, embracing Islam according to traditional Seerah accounts. Why is it Called "The Grapes of Mercy"? The grapes symbolize Allah's mercy arriving at the Prophet ﷺ during one of his darkest moments. Although he had been rejected and wounded by the people of Taif, Allah comforted him through the kindness of Addas. This small act of compassion became a lasting reminder that mercy can appear even in times of great hardship.