Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā (المسجد الأقصى)
Definition and Etymology
Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā (Arabic: المسجد الأقصى, Turkish: Mescid-i Aksa) literally translates to “The Farthest Mosque.” The term reflects its status as the most distant mosque visited by Muslims as part of their religious history.
Historical Context and Significance
Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā, located in Jerusalem, is one of the holiest sites in Islam. The mosque finds its roots in the temple constructed by Prophet Solomon (Sulayman), historically known as al-Baitu ʾl-Muqaddas (“the Holy House”). It is also intimately associated with aṣ-Ṣak͟hraḥ (“the Rock”), which is believed to be the site from where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ascended to heaven during the celestial journey known as al-Isrāʾ wal-Miʿrāj (Qur’an, Surah 17:1).
Religious Importance
Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā holds a special place in the heart of Muslims globally. It was the first qibla (direction of prayer) before the qibla was changed to the Kaaba in Mecca. The site remains an integral part of Islamic eschatology and devotion. Pilgrimage to this site, although not obligatory like Hajj, is highly revered and is classified as one of the three mosques towards which a journey is encouraged, along with Al-Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina.
Literature and Scholarship
Many Islamic scholars, including the notable Jalālu ʾd-dīn as-Suyūtī, have written extensively about Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā’s virtues and merits. As-Suyūtī’s significant contributions have been compiled into a work devoted to detailing the immense benefits of this site. This particular work has been translated into English by Rev. James Reynolds and can be found in the Oriental Translation Fund, 1836.
Further Reading
- “Jerusalem in the Qur’an” by Imran N. Hosein
- “Palestine in Islamic History” by Abdul-Fattah El-Awaisi
- “The Dome of the Rock” by Oleg Grabar
- “Bayt al-Maqdis: Sacred Space—Holy, Unique, and Magnetic” edited by Mustafa Abu Sway, Reuven Amitai, and Uriel Simonsohn
Takeaways and Conclusion
Al-Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā is much more than a physical structure; it represents a significant spiritual and historical milestone in Islam. Its association with pivotal events such as the Isra and Mi’raj, and its status as a former qibla, underscore its revered place in Muslim worship and lore. The ongoing study and exploration of its significance continue to enrich the understanding of Islamic faith and its historical narrative.
