Alternative Spelling:
Al Aqsa Mosque / Al-Aqsa Mosque / Al-Aksa Mosque / Al-Aqsa Masjid / Al-Aksa Masjid
What is Al Aqsa Mosque?
- Al Aqsa Mosque refers to the sacred mosque located in Jerusalem, known in Arabic as Al-Masjid al-Aqsa (المسجد الأقصى), which literally means “the Farthest Mosque.” The term “Aqsa” is derived from the Arabic root q-s-a, meaning “far” or “remote,” signifying its distant location from Mecca and its special status in Islamic tradition.
- Al Aqsa Mosque holds immense theological significance in Islam as it is considered the third holiest site after the mosques in Mecca and Medina. It is directly mentioned in the Qur’an in relation to the Isra and Mi’raj, the miraculous night journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), making it a focal point of religious reverence and a symbol of deep spiritual connection for Muslims worldwide.
- Historically, Al-Masjid al-Aqsa has been a center of Islamic scholarship, worship, and community life since the earliest days of Islam. Islamic scholars have consistently emphasized its status as a sacred sanctuary, and it served as the first qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims before it was changed to Mecca, highlighting its foundational role in Islamic history and worship practices.
- Spiritually, Al Aqsa Mosque represents a place of profound blessing and sanctity. Praying within its precincts is believed to carry multiplied rewards, and it is seen as a site where the prayers of believers are especially accepted. The mosque’s spiritual value inspires Muslims to seek connection with their faith, history, and the broader Muslim community through reverence for this holy site.
- In practical terms, Al Aqsa Mosque continues to be a destination for pilgrimage and religious tourism, as well as a symbol of unity and resilience for Muslims today. Its preservation and protection are considered communal responsibilities, and it features prominently in contemporary Islamic discourse, educational curricula, and charitable initiatives aimed at supporting its upkeep and the well-being of its worshippers.
Examples of Al Aqsa Mosque
- Historical Significance: "Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to the heavens from Al Aqsa Mosque during the Night Journey."
- Travel Experience: "Visiting Al Aqsa Mosque was a spiritual highlight of my trip to Jerusalem."
- Friday Prayers: "Thousands of worshippers gather at Al Aqsa Mosque every Friday for the congregational prayers."
- Religious Education: "Our teacher explained the importance of Al Aqsa Mosque in Islamic history."
- News Report: "Recent events at Al Aqsa Mosque have drawn international attention and calls for peace."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Do not undertake a (religious) journey to visit any mosque, but three: this mosque of mine, the Sacred Mosque, and Al Aqsa Mosque."
Sahih Bukhari 1189 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "You should not undertake a special journey to visit any place other than the three Mosques: the Sacred Mosque of Mecca, this mosque of mine, and Al Aqsa Mosque."
Sahih Muslim 1397 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “A man’s prayer in his house is equivalent to a single observance of prayer, his prayer in a tribal mosque is equivalent to twenty-five, his prayer in a mosque in which the Friday prayer is observed is equivalent to five hundred, his prayer in the Aqsa mosque is equivalent to fifty thousand, his prayer in my mosque is equivalent to fifty thousand, and his prayer in the sacred mosque (the Ka’ba) is equivalent to a hundred thousand.”
Mishkat al-Masabih 752 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Al Aqsa Mosque
What does Al Aqsa Mosque mean in English?
Al Aqsa Mosque means the Farthest Mosque.
When should Muslims mention Al Aqsa Mosque?
Muslims should mention Al Aqsa Mosque when discussing significant Islamic sites, the history of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), or the events of Isra and Mi'raj.
Why is Al Aqsa Mosque important in Islam?
Al Aqsa Mosque is important in Islam because it is the third holiest site, was the first qibla for Muslims, and is associated with the night journey and ascension of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Where is Al Aqsa Mosque located?
Al Aqsa Mosque is located in the Old City of Jerusalem.
What historical events are associated with Al Aqsa Mosque?
Al Aqsa Mosque is associated with the Isra and Mi'raj, during which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was taken from Mecca to Jerusalem and then ascended to the heavens.
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