Sunan Ampel Tomb

It was my intention to visit the Ampel Mosque simply because I love visiting mosques so much. I didn't expect it to be another religious trip of soul when I happened to be near Sunan Ampel's tomb.

The first was when I visited the Prophet's tomb in Madinah. I was sensitive enough to feel the aura of the place which kept my feet from approaching. Yes, I was suddenly stopped and I wept with large drops that I couldn't help to shed. Though not as many tear drops as the ones in Madinah, this visit to Ampel had a similar effect on me. What an energy!

The complex was not so full when I arrived. It was still early morning. There are groups which came from all over Java and each one can be easily identified by the uniforms they wore. There are many tombs surrounding the main complex and mostly are not built higher than the ground. The inner complex is even more full. Many people were chanting by sitting down on the tomb floor. I just stood up there looking at the crowd and then closing my eyes to get the feeling which I knew was the only one I could bring home since no photographing is allowed.

I left the inner complex with my red eyes after praying silently towards the mosque. Based on the information I got, only men are allowed to enter the mosque. The women must pray in a different building. My heart sank. I was so disappointed. Very.

Then I went to the main gate and observed. I took some pics before I went to the alley where many people sell things, mostly Middle Eastern style stuff. There's something amazing about this place. The atmosphere, the shadow, the kiosk arrangement and the smell (yeah, you heard me right) remind me of Pasar Seng in Mekkah. Exactly the same. I think it's a good place to reminisce what one had experienced a long time ago (especially since Pasar Seng is not as it used to be like anymore).

Though it was only a short visit to the tomb, I felt satisfied. I hope one day I can visit all the other walis tomb. May Allah provide me with the opportunity. Amen.

A video on Sunan Ampel's tomb can be seen here.