Al-Aqsa Mosque: A Sacred Jewel of Jerusalem
Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, is one of the most respected places in Islam.Its name means "the farthest mosque," and it has great historical, spiritual, and cultural importance.
Religious Importance:
- It is the third holiest site in Islam, after Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina.
- According to Islamic tradition, it is the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Isra and Mi'raj.
- Before the direction of prayer was changed to Mecca, Muslims faced Al-Aqsa as their first qibla.
Historical Background:
- The mosque was originally built during the early Islamic period, around the 7th century CE.
- It was constructed by Caliph Abd al-Malik or his successor, al-Walid I, during the Umayyad Caliphate.
- The mosque has been rebuilt and renovated several times due to earthquakes and other historical conflicts.
- Location & Architecture
- It is situated on the southern part of the Temple Mount, also known as Al-Haram al-Sharif.
- The compound covers about 144,000 square meters and includes the Dome of the Rock, Qibli Mosque, and other important structures.
- The design includes a silver dome, marble columns, and detailed mosaics.
- The area can hold up to 500,000 worshippers.
Political & Cultural Relevance
- Al-Aqsa is a powerful symbol of Palestinian heritage and Islamic faith.
- The site is often at the center of tensions between Israelis and Palestinians due to its religious and political significance.
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