Understanding the Al-Aqṣā Mosque
Location:
Al-Aqṣā Mosque is situated in Jerusalem, specifically in the Old City.
Prophet Muhammad’s Isrāʾ Journey:
According to Islamic tradition, this mosque is associated with the Isrāʾ journey of the Prophet Muhammad. It is believed that, as mentioned in the Qurʾān (17:1), he was miraculously transported from Mecca to this mosque in Jerusalem during a single night.
Historical Significance:
It’s a place of great historical and religious importance. It’s believed that at this location, Prophet Muhammad led a ritual prayer, alongside other revered messengers of God, including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
Miʿrāj:
On the same night, the Prophet Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven from the site where the Dome of the Rock now stands, leading to a divine encounter (Miʿrāj).
Al-Aqṣā Mosque vs. Al-Ḥaram al-Sharīf:
While the term “Al-Aqṣā Mosque” often refers to the entire plaza that includes the mosque and the Dome of the Rock, the formal name for the plaza is “Al-Ḥaram al-Sharīf,” which means “the Noble Sanctuary.”
Tension in Modern Times: In contemporary history, this site has become a focal point of tension in the Arab-Israeli conflict. It holds immense significance for both Muslims and Jews. For Jews, it’s associated with the historical Temple of Jerusalem. However, this temple was destroyed in 70 CE. It’s known as the Temple Mount for Jews, and the Western Wall adjacent to it is a site of pilgrimage.
Six-Day War (1967):
During the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel occupied East Jerusalem, including the Old City where this site is located. Israel later annexed East Jerusalem, but the plaza remained under the custodianship of an Islamic trust (waqf) overseen by the Hashemite dynasty in Jordan.
Ongoing Concerns:
Over the years, restrictions on Palestinian Muslims’ access to the site, Israeli excavation projects in the vicinity, and the eviction of Palestinian residents in nearby neighborhoods have contributed to concerns among Muslims regarding the future of this holy site.