Exploring the Rich History and Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque

Al Aqsa Masjid Palestine 

 Introduction

Discovering the profound significance and historical richness of Al-Aqsa Mosque takes us on a journey through the sacred lands of Bait al-Maqdis, also known as Jerusalem. As we delve into the virtues, construction, and unique aspects of this holy site, we unveil its role as the second oldest mosque on Earth, following Masjid Haram (Khana Kaaba).

The Hierarchy of Honor

In the hierarchy of honor and glory, the first position is held by Haram, followed by the Prophet's Mosque, and then Al-Aqsa Mosque. These three distinguished mosques are mentioned in the Holy Quran, with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighting their special greatness during his journey to the Ascension.

Historical Significance

It stands as the second oldest mosque globally, following Masjid Haram (Khana Kaaba). Alhamdulillah, this sacred site hosts the five daily congregational prayers, along with special occasions like Fridays, Eids, Taraweeh, Tahajjud, Itikaaf, and educational activities. Regarded as the third holiest place, the holy land of Palestine holds a unique significance as the dwelling place of prophets, earning it the title "Land of the Prophets." Signs of these revered figures and traces of ancient civilizations adorn its landscape.
In the renowned and ancient city of Bait al-Maqdis, also known as "Quds" and Jerusalem, the historical tapestry unfolds. The city is divided into two parts – the old city, enclosed by towering walls, and the new city. The old city, veiled by high walls, shelters numerous holy sites, including the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque. Encircled by a 1600-meter-long stone wall, the mosque features nine gates, each a portal to the rich history and spirituality that resides within.

THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD ﷺ AND HIS 10 BLESSED HABITS

Architecture and Construction

The construction of Al-Aqsa Mosque is a tapestry of History, in the year 14 AH (636 AD), Hazrat Umar, following a victorious campaign, arrived at the sacred site. Eager to locate the destination of the Prophet's Muhammad ﷺ ascension, he personally cleansed the area and sanctioned the construction of a mosque. Hazrat Bilal, echoing the call to prayer, inaugurated the mosque's establishment, leading the inaugural prayer himself. Hazrat Umar had ordered to build a mosque here.
The initial structure was a simple rectangular wooden mosque, measuring 80 meters in length and 55 meters in width. Supported by 23 towering marble pillars and 49 smaller square pillars, this wooden structure was completed in 705 AD.
Over the centuries, the mosque underwent multiple reconstructions, with the current structure dating back to 1035 AD. Adorned with gold and silver-covered doors, the mosque boasts eleven gates, seven of which are in the north. This sacred space, accommodating up to 50 thousand worshippers, bears witness to a rich history of resilience and faith.
Dome of the Rock is a marvel of Umayyad Architecture, the construction of the Dome of the Rock commenced under the visionary leadership of the fifth Umayyad caliph, Abdul Malik bin Marwan, in 68 AH (688 AD). 

Dome of Rock Palestine 

Completed in four years, this architectural masterpiece stands at a towering height of 30 meters from the ground. The dome's dimensions are noteworthy, with a distance of 20 meters and a height of 15 meters. Beneath this iconic dome lies the Cave of the Prophets, accessible through 11 steps.

Trials and Triumphs

The historical timeline of Al-Aqsa Mosque is marked by both trials and triumphs. In July 1099, Jerusalem fell into the hands of Christian invaders who, in a brutal occupation, massacred thousands of Muslim men, women, and children, converting the mosque into a church. The resilient spirit of the Muslim community, however, prevailed, with the heroic Sultan Salah al-Din Ayyubi reclaiming the city on 12 October 1187.  The cultural legacy of the mosque reached new heights with the installation of the magnificent Nadir pulpit, meticulously crafted in Aleppo by Sultan Saladin Ayyubi.
However, a somber day in history unfolded on August 15, 1967, when an Australian Jewish tourist, Michael Rohan, at the behest of the Israeli government, set fire to the Al-Aqsa Mosque. This tragic event claimed the southeastern roof and the rare memorial pulpit of the Sultan, reducing them to ashes.
The resilience and enduring significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of faith and perseverance.

The Excellence of Al-Aqsa Mosque

Delving into the virtues, construction, and historical significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque, we find a profound connection with the Quran and Sunnah. In the Holy Quran, the land of Syria is repeatedly referred to as the blessed land in four instances. During the Quranic revelation, Syria encompassed a broader territory than present-day Syria. Al-Aqsa Mosque, situated in this blessed Syrian land, is highlighted in a verse that speaks of making a weakened nation inherit the east and west of this blessed land (Al-A'raf: 137). This verse alludes to the grand empire of Bani Israel during the era of Hazrat Sulaiman, spanning Syria and its surroundings. 

What has Hamas lost and gained in the ongoing conflict?

In Sahih Hadith, the profound virtues of praying at Al-Aqsa Mosque are emphasized. Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar, narrating from the Messenger of Allah (may God bless him and grant him peace), recounts the construction of Bait al-Maqdis by Hazrat Sulaiman bin Dawud, peace be upon them. Hazrat Sulaiman sought three requests from Allah: the ability to judge people's cases in alignment with his judgment, a kingdom unparalleled by any successor, and, upon completing the mosque's construction, a supplication for purification from sins for anyone who prays in the mosque, akin to the state of purity at the moment of birth (Sunan Nasa'i: 693).

Another Quranic reference emphasizes the divine blessings bestowed upon Hazrat Ibrahim and Hazrat Lot, stating they were saved and directed to a land blessed for all its inhabitants (Ambiya: 71). This holy verse, with the term "Al-Alamin," clarifies that the blessings of Palestine and Syria are not exclusive to a specific group, nation, or religion. This distinction challenges the notion held by some, like the Jews, who believe in an exclusive entitlement to these blessings. Instead, the Quran emphasizes that the blessings extend to all nations, religions, and communities. Additionally, the Quran highlights the subjugation of the strong wind for the sake of Hazrat Sulaiman, directed toward the blessed land (Al-Anbiya: 81).
Further emphasizing the inclusivity of blessings, Allah mentions the settlement of the people of Saba and other prominent settlements, all of which are blessed (Saba: 18). The term "Al-Qura" in this verse signifies that blessings are not confined solely to the settlement of Palestine but extend to all settlements within Syria. This comprehensive understanding underscores the universal nature of divine blessings, embracing a diversity of people and regions within this sacred land.

Protection from Dajjal (Safeguarding Al-Aqsa Mosque)

Al-Aqsa Mosque stands as one of the sanctuaries where Dajjal, the deceiving false messiah, is forbidden entry, along with Mecca, Medina, and Masjid Toor. Hazrat Junada bin Umayyah Dusi (may Allah be pleased with him) shares a hadith warning from the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him). Describing Dajjal's distinctive features and powers, the Prophet emphasized that Dajjal will be unable to approach the four sacred mosques: Masjid al-Haram, Masjid al-Nabawi, Masjid al-Maqadis, and the Mount. This protective decree underscores the sanctity and divine shielding of these revered places from the impending mischief of Dajjal.

Conclusion

Al-Aqsa Mosque stands as a beacon of spirituality and history, embodying the legacy of prophets and serving as a symbol of resilience in the face of challenges. As we explore its virtues and embrace its rich history, we deepen our understanding of the profound significance this sacred site holds for Muslims worldwide.