Why does Islam hold Jerusalem sacred?

In a Nutshell: Islam holds Jerusalem as its third holiest city after Mecca and Medina. This significance stems from Jerusalem's rich religious history and its connection to Prophet's (saw) miraculous Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj). Table of Contents Introduction Evidences Why Jerusalem Holds Significance in Islam Misconceptions about Jerusalem's Significance in Islam FAQs about Jerusalem and Islam Conclusion Introduction Jerusalem holds a central place in the Abrahamic faiths, revered by Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. Within Islam, Jerusalem is considered the third holiest city after Mecca and Medina. This profound significance is rooted in Jerusalem's historical and religious importance, particularly its connection to Prophet Muhammad's (saw) Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj). Background and Context Jerusalem's historical significance for Muslims stretches back centuries. Islamic tradition recognizes Jerusalem as the site where Prophet Abraham (as) almost sacrificed his son Ishmael (as). The city is also believed to be the place where the First Temple, built by Prophet David (as) and expanded by Prophet Solomon (as), once stood. Furthermore, Jerusalem played a crucial role in the early development of Islam. Initially, the direction of Muslim prayer (Qibla) faced Jerusalem. This direction remained the Qibla for approximately 16-17 months after the Prophet's (saw) migration to Medina, before being divinely changed to the Kaaba in Mecca. Evidences The Quran, while not explicitly mentioning Jerusalem by name, alludes to its significance. [Quran 17:1] mentions the Prophet's (saw) journey by night from the Sacred Mosque [in Mecca] to the Farthest Mosque [al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem]. This night journey, known as Isra and Mi'raj, is further elaborated upon in Hadith. In Sahih al-Bukhari, Prophet (saw) describes being transported miraculously to Jerusalem on a winged creature called Buraq. There, he led prayers with other prophets, including Abraham (as), Moses (as) and Jesus (as). This miraculous event underscores the deep connection between Jerusalem and the Prophet's (saw) mission. Why Jerusalem Holds Significance in Islam Jerusalem's sanctity in Islam stems from several historical and theological factors: Connection to the Night Journey:The Isra and Mi'raj marks a pivotal moment in Islamic history. Jerusalem, as the starting point of this celestial journey, holds immense spiritual significance. Al-Aqsa Mosque:The presence of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the earliest Islamic holy sites, further amplifies Jerusalem's importance. Muslims revere it as the Farthest Mosque mentioned in the Quran and a place of worship visited by Prophet Muhammad (saw). City of Prophets:Jerusalem is associated with numerous prophets throughout history, including Abraham (as), David (as), Solomon (as) and Jesus (as). This rich history strengthens Jerusalem's position as a holy land. The sanctity of Jerusalem transcends its historical significance. It serves as a powerful symbol of Islamic heritage and a reminder of the interconnectedness of the Abrahamic faiths. Misconceptions about Jerusalem's Significance in Islam There are several misconceptions surrounding Jerusalem's importance in Islam. Here, we address two common ones: Muslims want to own Jerusalem politically. While Jerusalem holds deep religious significance for Muslims, the desire stems from its spiritual and historical value, not a political one. Muslims believe in peaceful coexistence and respect for the holy sites of all faiths. Jerusalem's importance negates the sanctity of Mecca and Medina. Mecca and Medina remain the two holiest cities in Islam. Jerusalem's significance exists alongside, not in competition with, them. Each city holds a unique place in Islamic history and faith. Objections to Jerusalem's Significance in Islam Some raise objections regarding Jerusalem's status in Islam. Let's address two interesting ones: The lack of a specific mention of Jerusalem by name in the Quran. The Quran mentions the Farthest Mosque ([Quran 17:1]) which Islamic tradition identifies as al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Additionally, the narrative of the Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj) heavily implies the location being Jerusalem. The historical destruction of the Temples in Jerusalem. The destruction of the Temples does not negate Jerusalem's sanctity. Muslims believe the land itself holds religious significance and the presence of al-Aqsa Mosque further reinforces its holy status. FAQs about Jerusalem and Islam Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Jerusalem and Islam: Can Muslims visit Jerusalem if they cannot perform Hajj? Yes, visiting Jerusalem (specifically al-Aqsa Mosque) is a highly recommended act (Sunnah) for Muslims, but not mandatory like Hajj. Muslims who are unable to perform Hajj can still gain spiritual merit by visiting Jerusalem. What is the Islamic perspective on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict? The Islamic perspective emphasizes the importance of peaceful solutions and upholding the rights of Palestinians. Muslims advocate for a just resolution that respects the religious significance of Jerusalem for all faiths. Is Jerusalem mentioned in any other religious texts besides the Quran and Hadith? The Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) features Jerusalem prominently, particularly as the center of Israelite worship and the location of both the First and Second Temples. The New Testament also recognizes Jerusalem's importance within the context of Jesus's (as) life and ministry. Why is Jerusalem sometimes referred to as al-Quds in Arabic? Al-Quds means The Holy, an Arabic term emphasizing Jerusalem's sanctity within Islam. What are the current Muslim views on Jerusalem's political status? Muslims hold diverse viewpoints on the political complexities of Jerusalem. However, many Muslims believe that any political resolution must uphold Jerusalem's multicultural heritage and religious freedom. Conclusion The significance of Jerusalem in Islam is multifaceted and deeply rooted in history, theology and tradition. Its connection to the Prophet's (saw) Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj), the presence of the sacred al-Aqsa Mosque and its association with numerous prophets secure its place as Islam's third holiest city. References Firestone, R. (1990). Journey to the Holy Land: The Inner and Outer Journeys and Visions of Al-Shayb al-'Arif. State University of New York Press. Necipoglu, G. (2008). The Dome of the Rock: New Light on Its History and Architecture. Muqarnas: An Annual on the Visual Cultures of the Islamic World, Vol. 25, 335-356. Rabbat, N. O. (2023). The Destruction and Rebuilding of Jerusalem in Early Islamic Times, 515-693 CE. Oxford University Press.