Jerusalem, known as Al-Quds or Bayt al-Maqdis in Arabic, is a very special city for all of the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam). It is home to important religious sites and has a deep connection to Islamic history and beliefs.
While Makkah is the holiest place in Islam and Madinah is second, Jerusalem holds the honour of being the third holiest city. This article will explore why Jerusalem is so important to Muslims, looking at its history and religious meaning.
Jerusalem's significance lies in its profound associations with revered Islamic prophets. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is traditionally believed to have built the Kaaba in Makkah, while Dawud (AS) is linked to Jerusalem through his reign as king and his association with the site of the Temple Mount. Prophet Suleiman (AS) is honoured for constructing the First Temple in the city. Additionally, Prophet Isa (AS) holds an esteemed place in Islam, and Jerusalem is central to his life and mission.
Moreover, Jerusalem has also witnessed key historical events, including the Crusades during the Middle Ages. These were a series of religious wars where European Christians attempted to take control of the city from Muslims. It changed hands multiple times, with its recapture by the Muslim leader Saladin Ayyubi in 1187 standing as a pivotal moment, showcasing its enduring significance.
Originally, the Qiblah, the direction for Muslims' prayers, was initially set towards Jerusalem. However, around the second year after Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) migration (Hijra) to Madinah, a divine message directed a change in the Qiblah to face the Kaaba in Makkah instead.
“Indeed, We see you (O Prophet) turning your face towards heaven. Now We will make you turn towards a direction (of prayer) that will please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque (in Makkah)—wherever you are, turn your face towards it. Those who were given the Scripture certainly know this to be the truth from their Lord. And Allah is never unaware of what they do.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 144)
This ayah from Surah Al-Baqarah, explains the significance of the shift and underscores Makkah's significance as the holiest place in Islam.
The religious significance of Jerusalem is further emphasised by the miraculous Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), also known as Isra and Miraj in Islamic tradition, which refers to the miraculous journey undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Jerusalem on the celestial creature called Buraq.
He then ascended through the heavens where he prayed alongside the previous prophets, extending heartfelt dua for the well-being of all Muslims. The Covenant of Salah, which refers to the importance of prayer, was exemplified during this momentous journey.
“Exalted is He 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, verse 1)
Jerusalem is home to sacred landmarks that are very important in Islam. The Blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque believed to be the second mosque built on Earth after the Kaaba in Makkah, is known as a place of great blessings. It is said that praying in this holy mosque brings special rewards. The Prophet (PBUH) said,
“... his (a man) prayer in Aqsa Mosque is equal to fifty thousand prayers; his prayer in my mosque is equal to fifty thousand prayers; and his prayer in the Sacred Mosque is equal to one hundred thousand prayers.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1413)
The Dome of the Rock, built by Caliph Abd al-Malik (RA) in the late 7th century, is an incredible example of Islamic architecture and spiritual meaning. It houses the Foundation Stone, the site where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is believed to have started his journey to the heavens during the Night Journey.
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Jerusalem is significant in Islam due to its connection with several prophets. Prophet Dawud (AS) made it the capital of Israel, and his son, Prophet Suleiman (AS), ruled with wisdom from the city. Prophet Isa (AS) preached there, performed miracles, and in Islamic tradition, was not crucified but raised to the heavens. Additionally, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was taken to Jerusalem during the Isra and Miraj, where he ascended to the heavens. These profound connections make Jerusalem a revered city in Islam.
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As it is previously discussed, the Holy Quran contains verses emphasising the significance of Jerusalem and its environs, (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 144, and Surah Al-Isra, verse 1).
Additionally, Hadiths (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)) further underscore his deep reverence for the city. For instance, Abu Darda (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates a Hadith wherein the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“A prayer in Makkah (Kaaba) is worth 100000 times (reward), a prayer in my Masjid (Madina) is worth 1000 times, and a prayer in Al-Aqsa Sanctuary is worth 500 times more reward than anywhere else.”
(Bayhaqi)
This Hadith highlights the exceptional value of praying in Al-Aqsa Mosque.
After the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in 632 CE, Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (RA), the second Muslim Caliph, peacefully took control of Jerusalem from the Byzantines in 637 CE through a treaty. Instead of seeking revenge, Umar (RA) showed religious tolerance by guaranteeing safety and rights to the city’s Christian residents.
Later Muslim rulers of Jerusalem followed Umar’s (RA) example and made the city a model of interfaith harmony. Under Islamic rule, Jerusalem flourished as a centre of religion, culture, and trade. Powerful Muslim dynasties like the Umayyads, Abbasids, and Fatimids built amazing landmarks, including the famous Dome of the Rock with its golden dome, which became a symbol of Islam’s deep connection to the city.
During the Crusades, when the Crusaders took Jerusalem, Muslims fought hard to reclaim it. In 1187 CE, Saladin Ayubi recaptured Jerusalem and continued Umar’s (RA) tradition of tolerance. Despite his victory, he did not force Christians or Jews to leave the city. Instead, he welcomed Jews back to Jerusalem and ensured that Christians could continue their worship freely.
Saladin’s fair treatment helped restore peace and harmony in the city. His actions reflected the Islamic values of tolerance and justice, strengthening Jerusalem’s role as a special place for Muslims. For nearly 1400 years, Jerusalem remained a key centre of Muslim leadership and faith, second only to Makkah and Madinah in importance for Muslims worldwide.
After the establishment of Israel in 1948, many Palestinians were displaced from their homes, and tensions over control of Jerusalem have grown. The city is home to Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam, which is located within the Haram al-Sharif (the Noble Sanctuary), making it a sacred place for Muslims worldwide.
Palestinians see East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state, while Israel claims the entire city as its undivided capital. This disagreement has led to decades of violence, protests, and political negotiations. Despite international calls for peace and justice, the situation remains unresolved, causing hardship for the people of Palestine.
In conclusion, Jerusalem holds a unique and sacred place in Islam, deeply rooted in its history, spiritual significance, and connection to revered prophets. From the Blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock to its role in the Night Journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the city stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and unity for Muslims around the world. For Muslims, Jerusalem is not just a city; it is a testament to the shared heritage and profound teachings of Islam, inspiring believers to honour its legacy and significance.
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