---
title: "Ahmed Abdul Majid: Person Who Introduced Electricity to Masjid an-Nabawi"
url: "https:\/\/theislamicinformation.com\/blogs\/ahmed-abdul-majid-electricity-masjid-an-nabawi\/"
type: "post"
updated: "2024-08-26"
description: "In the late 19th century, Ahmed Abdul Majid, the 31st Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, made a decision that changed Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet's Mosque, in Medina."
taxonomies: ["Blogs","Medina","Ottomans","Saudi Arabia","Turkey"]
---

# Ahmed Abdul Majid: Person Who Introduced Electricity to Masjid an-Nabawi

Source: https://theislamicinformation.com/blogs/ahmed-abdul-majid-electricity-masjid-an-nabawi/
Updated: 2024-08-26

The Sultan of Ottoman introduced electricity to the mosque, bringing light to the Prophet's mosque that had been illuminated solely by oil lamps and natural sunlight for centuries.

During the reign of Sultan Abdul Majid the world was rapidly advancing into the modern age. Born in Istanbul in 1839, he ascended to the throne in 1876, during a period of great challenge for the Ottoman Empire.

He grew up in the Topkapi Palace. His education was steeped in both Islamic teachings and the modern sciences.

![il painting portrait of Sultan Abdülmecid](https://theislamicinformation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/il-painting-portrait-of-Sultan-Abdulmecid-965x1256.webp)

*Photo: J'ytm7 - Milli Saraylar Resim Müzesi*

Before the installation of electric lights, the Prophet's mosque in Medina relied on the dim glow of oil lamps.

The introduction of electricity in the late 19th century was a great improvement, providing brighter, more reliable lighting that enhanced the mosque’s atmosphere, especially during evening prayers.

This modernization allowed for more flexibility in worship times and created a more inviting environment for the thousands of pilgrims who visit the mosque each year.

![1908 Masjid an Nabawi](https://theislamicinformation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1908-Masjid-an-Nabawi.jpeg)

*Photo: Picasa*

## **The Enduring Legacy of the 120-Year-Old Bulb**

Among the first bulbs installed by Sultan Abdul Majid in Masjid an-Nabawi is one that has become a symbol of his legacy—a light bulb that has been shining for over 120 years.

This bulb, located within the mosque, still functions today, a remarkable feat that speaks to the quality and care taken during its installation.

![oldest bulb masjid an nabawi](https://theislamicinformation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/oldest-bulb-masjid-an-nabawi-jpg.webp)

Sultan Abdul Majid passed away in 1909, but his legacy lives on, particularly in the glowing light of that 120-year-old bulb in Masjid an-Nabawi.