Al-Aqsa Mosque .. its history and sections
The Al-Aqsa Mosque is the first Qibla and the third Haram in Islam. It was previously known as Bayt al-Maqdis, as mentioned in the holy scriptures and the noble prophetic traditions.
The actual Al-Aqsa Mosque is located within the Old City of Jerusalem in Palestine. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, encompassing the entire walled area with an area of 144,000 square meters. Everything within the walls is referred to as Al-Aqsa Mosque, including the Qibli Mosque, the Dome of the Rock Prayer Hall, the Marwani Prayer Hall, and the Bab al-Rahmah Prayer Hall. Additionally, it contains numerous historical and archaeological sites, totaling around 200.
History of Al-Aqsa Mosque:
Who Built Al-Aqsa Mosque?
Some prophetic traditions state that Al-Aqsa Mosque was built 40 years after the construction of the Kaaba. Historians differ in identifying the first builder of Al-Aqsa Mosque and its exact historical date. Opinions vary, suggesting that the first builder could be angels, Adam, his son Seth, Noah, or Prophet Abraham.
Boundaries and Key Landmarks of Al-Aqsa Mosque:
The boundaries of Al-Aqsa Mosque have remained unchanged since its establishment, unlike the Prophet's Mosque and the Grand Mosque, which were expanded. Al-Aqsa Mosque has four minarets and seven main prayer halls:
1) Marwani Prayer Hall:
Also known as the Eastern Sanctuary, it is located in the southeastern corner of Al-Aqsa Mosque. It was built during the Umayyad period by Caliph Abd al-Malik bin Marwan. Its capacity to accommodate worshippers is the largest, with a total area of approximately 4,000 square meters.
2) Women's Mosque:
Situated in the southwestern part of Al-Aqsa Mosque, it dates back to the Crusader period. Initially built as a church, it was later transformed by Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi into a prayer hall designated for women.
3) Qibli Mosque:
This is the main prayer hall of Al-Aqsa Mosque, where Friday prayers are held. It was first built by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab in the 15th year after the Hijra. The current structure was renovated during the Umayyad era by Caliph Abd al-Malik bin Marwan.
4) Dome of the Rock Prayer Hall:
A remarkable architectural masterpiece built by order of Caliph Abd al-Malik bin Marwan, it is one of the most prominent landmarks within Al-Aqsa Mosque. Read more about it in the article Dome of the Rock.
5) Al-Buraq Mosque:
Located in the southwestern corner, it is said to have been built by Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi in 1193 CE. It is now used as a hall for the Islamic museum.
Key Gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque:
The article also covers the important gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque:
- Bab al-Magharibah (Magharibah Gate)
- Bab al-Amud (Column Gate)
- Bab al-Asbat (Asbat Gate)
- Bab al-Sahira (Sahira Gate)
- Bab al-Nabi Dawud (Prophet David Gate)
- Bab al-Khalil (Hebron Gate)
- Bab al-Jadeed (New Gate)
- Bab al-Rahmah (Mercy Gate)
Domes of Al-Aqsa Mosque:
The mosque features numerous domes that are significant Islamic landmarks, each with its own name such as the Dome of Spirits, Dome of Joseph, Dome of the Prophet, Dome of Jesus, Dome of Solomon, and the Dome of the Ascension. Other sections contain numerous sacred sites, including the Noble Rock inside the Dome of the Rock.
Difference Between Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock:
Many people, both Muslims and non-Muslims, often confuse Al-Aqsa Mosque with the Dome of the Rock. Is the Dome of the Rock the same as Al-Aqsa Mosque? The answer is no. The Dome of the Rock is part of the sacred area known as Al-Aqsa Mosque, which covers an area of 144,000 square meters. This area includes the Marwani Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, the Qibli Mosque, and the Bab al-Rahmah Prayer Hall. The Dome of the Rock is the highest point within the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.
