MCQ Detailed View

The change of the Qibla is one of the most important events in Islamic history. Initially, Muslims were commanded to face Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem during prayers. However, after about sixteen or seventeen months following the Hijrah (migration) to Madinah, Allah (SWT) commanded Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to turn the direction of prayer towards the Kaaba in Makkah. This momentous event occurred in the 2nd Hijri year, during the prayer in Masjid Qiblatain (The Mosque of Two Qiblas) in Madinah.

This change was a significant test for the believers, as it symbolized independence and distinction of the Muslim Ummah from previous religious communities. The incident is directly mentioned in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:144), where Allah (SWT) instructed the Prophet (ﷺ):
"So turn your face toward al-Masjid al-Haram. And wherever you believers are, turn your faces toward it in prayer."

The event emphasized the central role of the Kaaba as the spiritual center of Islam, uniting Muslims around the world in a single direction of worship. It also highlighted the importance of obedience to divine revelation, as the early Muslim community immediately complied with the command.

Key Facts:

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  The Qibla was originally towards Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.

  
  


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  The change took place in 2nd Hijri after migration to Madinah.

  
  


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  The location where it occurred is Masjid Qiblatain in Madinah.

  
  


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  The command is found in the Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:144).

  
  


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  The change symbolized the unity and independence of the Muslim Ummah.

  
  


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  The Kaaba became the eternal direction of prayer (Qibla) for all Muslims.