The Importance of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem According to Islam

Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem holds a unique and profound place in the heart of every Muslim. As the first qiblah, the site of the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ miraculous night journey, and the third holiest mosque in Islam, its significance extends beyond history into the core of the Islamic faith.

This article explores why Masjid Aqsa is so deeply revered in Islam, its early history, its sacred status, and the responsibility Muslims share in protecting it.

The Early History of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem

Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem holds an unparalleled place in Islamic history, tracing its roots back to the earliest days of monotheism. It was the second mosque ever established on Earth after the Kaaba in Makkah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of beings. In it are signs manifest; the Station of Abraham…” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:96-97)

In a hadith narrated by Abu Dharr al-Ghifari (may Allah be pleased with him), he asked the Prophet ﷺ:

“O Messenger of Allah, which mosque was built first on earth?” He said, “Al-Masjid Al-Haram (in Makkah).” I asked, “Then which?” He said, “Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa.” I asked, “How long was between the two?” He said, “Forty years…” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3366; Sahih Muslim, 520)

This narration establishes the early significance and ancient origins of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem. The construction is believed to have been initiated by Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) and later rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) and his offspring.

Over the centuries, it remained a vital center of worship for successive prophets including Dawud (David), Sulayman (Solomon), Zakariyya (Zachariah), Yahya (John the Baptist), and Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them all.

The Quran honors the blessed location of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem by referring to it as a sanctified and holy land:

“Glory be to Him, Who took His servant by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haram to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed…” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)

This verse marks the miraculous journey of Al-Isra’ and Al-Mi’raj, during which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was transported to Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem before ascending to the heavens.

This event further elevated the sanctity and spiritual stature of the mosque in the hearts of Muslims.

Through centuries of divine worship, prophetic guidance, and historical reverence, Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem has stood as a symbol of Islamic identity and unity. It is not merely a structure, but a living testament to the continuity of the Islamic message across generations.

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Why Masjid Aqsa Is Sacred in Islam

The profound sanctity of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem is deeply rooted in Islamic theology, history, and eschatology. It is revered not only as a historical landmark but as a symbol of spiritual continuity from the prophets of Bani Israel to the final Prophet, Muhammad ﷺ.

1. The First Qibla for Muslims

One of the key reasons why Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem is sacred in Islam is that it was the first qibla (direction of prayer) for the Muslim ummah. For approximately 16 to 17 months after the Hijrah to Madinah, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions prayed facing Masjid Aqsa, until Allah commanded the change to the Kaaba:

“We have certainly seen the turning of your face, [O Muhammad], toward heaven, and We will surely turn you to a qiblah with which you will be pleased. So turn your face toward al-Masjid al-Haram…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:144)

This historic designation as the first qibla emphasizes the spiritual link between the Islamic ummah and Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem.

2. The Site of the Miraculous Night Journey (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj)

Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem is the destination of the miraculous night journey of the Prophet ﷺ, known as Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj. In this journey, the Prophet was taken from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid Aqsa and then ascended to the heavens:

“Glory be to Him Who took His servant by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haram to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:1)

This divine journey not only elevated the status of the Prophet ﷺ but also enshrined Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem as a celestial gateway and a sacred place of divine communication.

3. A Place of Worship for Many Prophets

Islamic tradition recognizes Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem as a sanctuary graced by numerous prophets. It is the location where Prophet Sulayman (Solomon, peace be upon him) built a magnificent temple and where Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him) preached his message.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ led all the previous prophets in prayer during his night journey, further demonstrating the spiritual significance of the mosque:

” I saw Moses saying prayer and found him to be a well-built man as if he was a man of the tribe of Shanu’a. I saw Jesus son of Mary (peace be upon him) offering prayer, of all of men he had the closest resemblance with ‘Urwa b. Masu’d al-Thaqafi. I saw Ibrahim (peace be upon him) offering prayer; he had the closest resemblance with your companion (the Prophet himself) amongst people. When the time of prayer came I led them. When I completed the prayer, someone said: Here is Malik, the keeper of the Hell; pay him salutations. I turned to him, but he preceded me in salutation.” (Sahih Muslim, 172)

This unique honor illustrates the unbroken chain of monotheistic faith centered at Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem.

4. Among the Three Mosques Worthy of Travel

In Islamic teachings, only three mosques are considered so sacred that traveling to them is specifically encouraged:

“Do not undertake a journey to visit any mosque, but three: this mosque of mine (in Madinah), the Sacred Mosque (in Makkah), and Al-Aqsa Mosque (in Jerusalem).” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1189; Sahih Muslim, 1397)

This hadith underscores the spiritual and devotional importance of Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem, placing it in the highest category of sacred Islamic sites.

The Role of Muslims in Protecting Al-Aqsa

Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem is not only a symbol of Islamic heritage but also a trust (amānah) in the global Muslim ummah. Its sanctity, rooted in the Quran and Sunnah, requires collective responsibility and unwavering commitment from Muslims to ensure its protection, preservation, and reverence.

1. A Sacred Trust for the Ummah

As the third holiest site in Islam, Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem carries spiritual, historical, and eschatological importance. The responsibility to protect it is not confined to the residents of Jerusalem alone, it extends to every Muslim worldwide.

2. Spiritual and Moral Support

The ongoing challenges faced by Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem, including threats to its sanctity and restricted access for worshippers, demand global awareness and spiritual solidarity.

Muslims are encouraged to remain informed, make sincere dua, and educate future generations about the mosque’s significance. Standing in moral support of Masjid Aqsa is a reflection of one’s adherence to the Islamic duty of defending sacred sites.

3. Preserving Its Status Through Unity

Unity among Muslims is a critical element in protecting Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem. Disunity and neglect weaken the collective ability to advocate for the mosque and its rightful status. The Quran emphasizes the importance of holding firmly together to the rope of Allah:

“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided…” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:103)

Through community engagement, public awareness, and unified efforts, Muslims can ensure that the voice of justice and respect for Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem remains strong.

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Conclusion

Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem is more than just a historical landmark, it is a sacred trust deeply embedded in Islamic belief, heritage, and prophecy.

From its early significance in the Prophet’s journey to its enduring role as a place of worship and spiritual connection, Masjid Aqsa remains a unifying symbol for Muslims around the world. Protecting and honoring it is both a religious duty and a reflection of collective Islamic identity.

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FAQs

What is Masjid Aqsa in Jerusalem?

It is the third holiest site in Islam, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, and includes the entire Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound.

Why is Masjid Aqsa important in Islam?

It was the first qiblah, the site of the Prophet’s ﷺ night journey, and holds deep religious and historical significance.

Is the Dome of the Rock the same as Masjid Aqsa?

No. The Dome of the Rock is part of the Masjid Aqsa compound but not the main prayer hall.

How can Muslims help protect Masjid Aqsa?

By staying informed, spreading awareness, making du‘ā’, supporting advocacy efforts, and respecting its sanctity.