Al-Aqsa Mosque (المسجد الاقصى )

       This is the most religious mosque in Israel and fits about 5,000 worshippers at one time. It is located in Eastern Jerusalem and is considered part of the Temple Mount to Jews and Christians, known as Al Haram al-Qudsi al-Sharif. It is very importantly administered by a Muslim council known as a Waqf and non-Muslims are currently not allowed within its walls. Muslims respect this site as the place that the prophet Muhammad ventured to in one night from Mecca (known as Isra and Mi’raj). He was riding a winged animal given to him by the angel Gabriel. Upon reaching Jerusalem and the “furthest mosque” (which we are now examining), he ascended to heaven (from the Dome of the Rock to receive instructions from Allah including the pillar that demands five daily prayers. He then returned to earth and went back to Mecca (all in one night). This is all detailed in the Qur’an.

(pictures taken from www.bibleplaces.com)

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