Frequently Asked Questions
What is the book Mecca to Medina about?
Mecca to Medina: 100 Personal Reflections on Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ Hijrah Journey pairs the story of the Prophet’s 622 CE migration from Mecca to Medina with 100 short personal reflections by former NFL safety Husain Abdullah. Each reflection draws a practical lesson — on patience, trust, sacrifice, and new beginnings — and applies it to modern life.
Who is Husain Abdullah?
Husain Abdullah is a former NFL safety who played seven seasons for the Minnesota Vikings (2008–2011) and Kansas City Chiefs (2013–2015). He sat out the 2012 season to perform Hajj with his brother Hamza, and is known for his 2014 Monday Night Football pick-six against Tom Brady, after which he prostrated in gratitude. He retired in 2016 and published Mecca to Medina in 2024. Read his full story →
How far is Mecca from Medina?
Mecca and Medina are about 280 miles (450 kilometers) apart by modern road, and roughly 210 miles (340 kilometers) in a straight line. Today the journey takes about 4–5 hours by car or around 2.5 hours on the Haramain high-speed railway. In 622 CE, the Prophet’s ﷺ Hijrah on camelback took roughly two weeks, including three nights hiding in the Cave of Thawr. See the full distance guide →
What was the Hijrah?
The Hijrah was Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE to escape persecution. It marks the founding of the first Muslim community and is so significant that the Islamic (Hijri) calendar begins from that year. Read the full explainer →
Do I need to be Muslim or know Islamic history to read this book?
No. The book is written in plain, personal language and explains the historical events as it goes. Muslim readers will find a devotional companion, while readers of any background can approach it as a book about resilience, faith, and navigating life’s transitions.
How is the book structured?
The book contains 100 short reflections that follow the arc of the Hijrah journey — from the planning in Mecca, to the Cave of Thawr, the desert road, and the arrival in Medina. Each reflection stands alone, so you can read one per day or read straight through. Explore the themes inside →
How much does the book cost and where can I buy it?
The paperback is currently on sale for $23.39 (regularly $29.99). You can order it directly from the official store — buy the book here.
Why did Husain Abdullah skip the 2012 NFL season?
Husain and his brother Hamza stepped away from the NFL for the entire 2012 season to perform Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca required once in a lifetime of every able Muslim. They chose faith over football with no guarantee of returning to the league — an experience that shaped the reflections in this book. Read the NFL story →
Still have a question? Reach out through the official store page, or explore the articles for deeper background.