Aṣ-Ṣakhrah (الصخرة) in Islam

Etymology

Aṣ-Ṣakhrah (Arabic: الصخرة‎), meaning “The Rock,” is synonymous with profound religious and cultural significance in the Islamic world. The term finds its roots in the Arabic language, underscoring the centrality and holiness of this rock in Jerusalem.

Arabic and Turkish Translations

• Arabic: الصخرة
• Turkish: Sakhrah (Sakarya Kayası)

Overview

Aṣ-Ṣakhrah refers to the sacred rock at Jerusalem, believed to be the foundation-stone of the world, and a place of profound religious significance. The Dome of the Rock (Qubbatu ʾṣ-Ṣak͟hrah), which currently stands atop this rock, is also known as the Mosque of ʿUmar to English speakers. This landmark is considered the third holiest site in Islam, next only to Mecca and Medina.

Historical and Religious Context

According to Islamic tradition, this rock is said to have originated from Paradise and is perceived as the place of worship for all prophets. Imām Jalālu ʾd-dīn as-Suyūt̤ī, in his historical accounts, narrates that Aṣ-Ṣakhrah has undergone various transformations and been a site of religious conflicts and associations with multiple prophetic traditions.

Significance in Various Traditions

• Islamic: It is the site from which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is believed to have ascended to heaven during the event of Isra and Mi’raj.
• Jewish: It is considered the holiest site as the location of the Foundation Stone for the First and Second Temples.
• Christian: It holds significant reverence due to its associations with biblical prophets and events mentioned in the Bible.

Architectural Significance

Dome of the Rock

Built under the reign of the Umayyad Caliphate in 691-692 CE, the Dome of the Rock is one of the most consequential examples of early Islamic architecture. It blends Byzantine architectural styles and early Islamic motifs. It has stood the test of time, witnessing periods of reconstruction and refurbishments.

Key Periods of Construction and Renovation

1. Initial Construction (691-692 CE): Commissioned by Caliph Abd al-Malik.
2. Restoration under Caliph El Mamûn (831 CE)
3. Earthquake Reconstruction (1016 CE): Renovated under the Fatimid Caliphate.
4. Crusader Period (1112-1135 CE): During this period, it was known as Templum Domini.
5. Saladin’s Reclamation (1187 CE): Restored to Islamic worship.
6. Ottoman Renovations (16th Century): Extensive repairs by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
7. Modern Era Restorations (19th and 20th Century): Including the major renovations conducted by the Ottoman Sultan Mahmud II and Sultan ʿAbdu ʾl-ʿAzīz.

Further Readings

1. “The Dome of the Rock” by Oleg Grabar - Provides an in-depth analysis of the architectural marvel.
2. “Jerusalem: One City, Three Faiths” by Karen Armstrong - Explores the religious significance of Jerusalem to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
3. “Islamic Legends: Histories of the Heroes, Saints, and Prophets of Islam” by Ibn al-Manṣūr - Contains translations of many stories related to Islamic legends.

Takeaways and Conclusion

Aṣ-Ṣakhrah is not merely a physical site but a confluence of deep spiritual, historical, and cultural narratives that resonate throughout Islamic tradition and beyond. The rock encapsulates the intertwined histories of Abrahamic religions and serves as a constant reminder of the shared heritage and divine genesis acknowledged by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike.

By studying these profound traditions and the architectural grandeur that encloses Aṣ-Ṣakhrah, one gains a window into the transcendent complexities and the sacred heart of religious practice, communal memory, and spiritual aspiration enshrined within Islam and its offshoots.