The term "Baqi`" signifies soft land void of stones. This is the sort of land in which graves are commonly dug. Medina has several places of that sort, such as: Baqi` of Al-Zubair, Baqi` of Al-Khail, and others.

Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) went out frequently at night to visit Baqi` Al-Gharqad and to pray for its dwellers. He used to say, "Peace be upon you, O abode of Believers" or "Peace be upon the believing men and women dwelling here. May Allah grant mercy to those from among us who passed away and those who are to come after us. Certainly, Allah willing, we will join you."

About ten thousand Companions have been buried in Medina.

It is preferable for the visitor to give greetings of peace to dwellers of the graves, each according to his burial place. Some invocations have been attributed to the Prophet, such as the following:

• "Peace be upon you, O abode of Believers. What you were promised will verily come to you at a fixed time. We shall, Allah willing, join you. O Allah! Grant forgiveness to those who are buried in Baqi` of Al-Gharqad."
• "Peace be upon you, O inhabitants of the graves. May the Almighty Allah forgive us and you all. You are our forerunners and we shall certainly join you."
• "Peace be upon you, O abode of Believers. You are our forerunners and we will surely join you. O Allah! Do not deprive us of the reward of (supplicating for) them, nor lead us astray after them."