Why is the Al Aqsa Mosque Significant to Muslims?
Masjid Al-Aqsa, located near the Western Wall, which is a sacred site for Jews, occupies a special position in the hearts of Muslims. But what contributes to the profound significance of Masjid Al-Aqsa for Muslims?
Masjid Al-Aqsa holds a revered status as the third holiest site in Islam, following the Harams of Makkah and Madina. Situated within the confines of the Old City of Jerusalem, this sacred mosque is not only a physical marvel but also a spiritual focal point for Muslims worldwide. Its significance is deeply rooted in the events of the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey, known as Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj, during which he was transported from Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa. This divine journey culminated in the Prophet’s ascension to the heavens, making Masjid Al-Aqsa a pivotal location in Islamic history and spirituality.
The History of Masjid Al Aqsa:
During the governance of either the Rashidun caliph Umar (who ruled from 634 to 644) or the Umayyad caliph Mu’awiya I (who reigned from 661 to 680), a prayer house was established in proximity to the mosque’s location. The current mosque, situated on the southern wall of the compound, was originally constructed by the fifth Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik (who ruled from 685 to 705) or his successor al-Walid I (who reigned from 705 to 715), or potentially both, serving as a congregational mosque in alignment with the Dome of the Rock. Following an earthquake in 746, the mosque was reconstructed in 758 under the Abbasid caliph al-Mansur. Additional expansions occurred in 780 during the reign of Abbasid caliph al-Mahdi, but it faced further destruction during the Jordan Rift Valley earthquake of 1033. It was later rebuilt by the Fatimid caliph al-Zahir (who ruled from 1021 to 1036). The current structure predominantly preserves its design from the 11th century.
Misunderstanding about Masjid Al Aqsa
There is frequently misunderstanding about which structure is Masjid Al-Aqsa. When you look up “Al-Aqsa Mosque,” numerous images show the building featuring the distinctive golden dome. However, it is crucial to clarify that this is not the Masjid Al-Aqsa; instead, it is the “Dome of the Rock.” The Dome of the Rock is built on the rock from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended during his Night Journey.
In contrast, Masjid Al-Aqsa is characterized by its unique silver dome.
Understanding this difference is of great importance, as Masjid Al-Aqsa serves as the actual mosque where Muslims convene for prayers and worship. This is not solely an issue of architectural recognition but also one of spiritual and historical precision.
Why is Masjid Al Aqsa significant to Muslims:
Why is Masjid Al Aqsa significant to Muslims:
سُبْحَـٰنَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أَسْرَىٰ بِعَبْدِهِۦ لَيْلًۭا مِّنَ ٱلْمَسْجِدِ ٱلْحَرَامِ إِلَى ٱلْمَسْجِدِ ٱلْأَقْصَا ٱلَّذِى بَـٰرَكْنَا حَوْلَهُۥ لِنُرِيَهُۥ مِنْ ءَايَـٰتِنَآ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلْبَصِيرُ ١
Exalted is He who took His Servant [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ)] by night from al-Masjid al-Ḥarām to al-Masjid al-Aqṣā, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.
Masjid Al-Aqsa is of immense importance in the hearts and minds of Muslims around the globe, possessing a rich history and spiritual heritage that transcends time. It is referenced in verse one of chapter 17 of the Holy Quran. This verse emphasizes the divine blessings granted to the vicinity of Masjid Al-Aqsa, enhancing its status as a sacred sanctuary where the manifestations of Allah’s greatness are revealed.
The Masjid Al-Aqsa compound was historically the Qibla, the direction towards which Muslims prayed. Prior to the Kaaba in Makkah becoming the permanent Qibla, Muslims oriented themselves towards the Masjid Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem for their prayers. This historical link to the formative years of Islam imbues Masjid Al-Aqsa with a profound sense of respect and significance as the original center of Muslim worship.
The compound of Masjid Al-Aqsa encompasses not only the physical mosque but also the site of the miraculous Night Journey (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj) of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This event reinforces the sanctity of Masjid Al-Aqsa as a revered location.