Mosque of the Two Qiblahs (Qiblatain Mosque)
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: مسجد القبلتين (Masjid al-Qiblatayn)
- Turkish: İki Kıbleli Mescid
Historical Significance
The Mosque of the Two Qiblahs, also known as Masjid al-Qiblatayn, is a historical mosque located in Medina, Saudi Arabia. It holds profound significance in Islamic history for being the site where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received a revelation that led to the change of the qiblah—the direction Muslims face during prayer.
Origins and Early History
Upon his emigration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina, Prophet Muhammad first arrived at Quba, where he laid the foundations for the Quba Mosque. He subsequently settled in Medina and initially directed the prayers (salat) towards Jerusalem, in line with earlier Abrahamic traditions. This period of praying towards Jerusalem lasted about sixteen or seventeen months.
The Change of Qiblah
The crucial event that gives the Mosque of the Two Qiblahs its name is mentioned in the Qur’an:
<p>“The foolish among the people will say, ‘What has turned them away from their qiblah, which they used to face?’ Say, ‘To Allah belongs the east and the west. He guides whom He wills to a straight path.’” - (Quran 2:142)</p>
Narrations mention that the Prophet Muhammad received this revelation during a prayer session at the mosque of the Banu Salamah tribe in Medina. Midway through the noon prayer (Dhuhr), he was instructed to turn from facing Jerusalem to facing the Kaaba in Mecca. This mosque hence gained its distinctive title—Masjid al-Qiblatayn i.e., the “Mosque of the Two Qiblahs”.
Architectural and Cultural Legacy
The structure, though modest in its origins, became a symbol of Islamic unity and direction. The mosque has undergone several renovations over the centuries but still attracts pilgrims and visitors for its historical significance.
Books for Further Study
For an in-depth understanding of the Mosque of the Two Qiblahs and its significance, consider the following:
- “In the Shadow of the Prophet: The Struggle for the Soul of Islam” by Milton Viorst
- “Islam: A Short History” by Karen Armstrong
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al.
Takeaways
- Historical Pivot: The Mosque of the Two Qiblahs marks a pivotal moment in Islamic history—the change of qiblah from Jerusalem to Mecca.
- Cultural Significance: The mosque stands as a symbol of the Islamic tradition and the prophetic history.
- Pilgrimage Site: It remains an important site for Muslim pilgrims visiting Medina.
Conclusion
The Mosque of the Two Qiblahs or Masjid al-Qiblatayn embodies a critical historical and spiritual turning point in Islam. It underscores the unity and direction of the Muslim ummah (community) and continues to be a heartfelt destination for countless believers.
For anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Islamic tradition, the Mosque of the Two Qiblahs serves as a profound testament to its enduring legacy.
