Al Masjid Al Aqsa
One of the distinctive features of Palestine, from a religious perspective, is the existence of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, a site of immense significance in Islam. Some illustrating features are:
This mosque boasts several remarkable attributes:
- The Miraculous Isra’ and Mi’raj Journey: Al-Aqsa Mosque is intrinsically linked to the extraordinary event of the Prophet's Isra’ and Mi’raj journey, where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to Heaven. This miraculous occurrence is etched in Islamic history, with the Prophet's journey commencing from this sacred mosque. Allah's words resonate: “Glorified (and Exalted) is He (Allah) [above all that (evil) they associate with Him](1) Who took His slave (Muhammad) for a journey by night from Al Masjid Al Ḥaram (in Makkah) to Al Masjid Al Aqsa (in Jerusalem), the neighborhood whereof We have blessed, in order that We might show him (Muhammad ) of Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, lessons, signs, etc.). Verily, He is the All Hearer, the All Seer.” (Al-Isra’: 1).
- Divine Blessings Encompassing the Surroundings: The blessings bestowed upon Al-Aqsa Mosque extend beyond its walls. Allah's benevolence encompasses not only the mosque itself but also its surroundings, as articulated in the aforementioned verse. This radiance stems from the mosque's profound sanctity, permeating the areas it graces.
- The First Qiblah of Islam: Al-Aqsa Mosque once held the position of the first qiblah, dictating the direction Muslims faced during prayer. For approximately sixteen to seventeen months after the migration to Medina, believers oriented themselves towards this mosque. Subsequently, divine revelations directed them to shift their focus towards the Kaaba in Makkah, marking a pivotal transition in prayer orientation.
- A Monument of Historical Significance: Al-Aqsa Mosque stands as the second mosque ever constructed on Earth, a testament to its historical prominence. Additionally, it ranks as the third most revered mosque globally, following Al-Masjid Al-Haram and An-Nabawi Mosque.
