There is much confusion between two holy sites in Jerusalem, The Dome of the Rock and Al-Masjid al-Aqsa. However, this is understandable, as the commonly recognized definition of al-Aqsa Mosque has changed over time. Al-Aqsa, the “Farthest Mosque”, is the third holiest site in Islam and Dome of the Rock is the most famous Islamic site located in Jerusalem. Although people will reference Al-Aqsa as a specific mosque, it is actually called Qibly Masjid.
The confusion comes from historical context. The wider compound upon which both sites, Qibly and The Dome of the Rock, are located has several names. The name of the mount, Masjid al-Aqsa, is also known as Bayt al-Maqdis. Additionally, the area is often referred to as al-Harma ash-Sharif, the “Noble Sanctuary”. However, people will interchangeably use al-Aqsa to refer to both the greater region as well as the specific mosque, Qibly Masjid.
Below, you can see the physical difference between Qibly (al-Aqsa) and Dome of the Rock. Whenever you hear Masjid al-Aqsa or Qibly Masjid, look for a lead-colored dome. The Dome of the Rock has an unmistakable gold dome.
Qibly Masjid, located within the greater al-Harma ash-Sharif, the Noble Sanctuary, is the most important mosque that lies within Jerusalem. It is central to the Muslim community and it hosts daily prayers along with Friday sermons which draw large crowds. The original dome of Qibly was created with wood and lead enamelwork. However, the dome was reconstructed in 1969 with concrete and anodized aluminum. This aluminum was replaced with lead in 1983 to match the original craftsmanship.
A view from within Qibly Masjid
The most famous Islamic landmark in Jerusalem, and also the oldest, is the Dome of the Rock. This site, however, is not a mosque, but rather a holy Muslim shrine. It is believed to be where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during his Night Journey.
So remember, Qibly Masjid and the Dome of the Rock are two distinct sites! Both are located within the Noble Sanctuary, al-Harma ash-Sharif, also known as al-Aqsa. The Dome of the Rock is a Muslim shrine with a vibrant gold dome, while Qibly Masjid is a mosque with a lead-colored dome.
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Sources:
http://www.sacred-destinations.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al-Aqsa_Mosque
Images:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30066666v
https://shankhachilerdana.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/mount2.jpg
