Explore the question in detail with explanation, related questions, and community discussions.
The word “Aqsa” in Arabic means “the farthest” or “most distant.” Masjid al-Aqsa, located in Al-Quds (Jerusalem), holds significant importance in Islam. The term "Masjid al-Aqsa" translates to "the farthest mosque" and is directly mentioned in the first verse of Surah Al-Isra (17:1), which describes the miraculous journey of Isra and Mi’raj undertaken by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
In this journey, the Prophet ﷺ was taken by night from Masjid al-Haram (in Makkah) to Masjid al-Aqsa, making it the second holiest destination in that sacred event. The title “Aqsa” signifies its geographical distance from Makkah and also reflects its elevated spiritual status as the Qiblah of early Muslims before the command was revealed to turn toward the Kaaba.
Masjid al-Aqsa is one of the three sacred mosques in Islam, along with Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi. It is also deeply connected to many Prophets including Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S), Hazrat Dawood (A.S), Hazrat Sulaiman (A.S), and Hazrat Isa (A.S), all of whom lived or preached in its surrounding area.
Key Facts:
“Aqsa” means “the farthest” or “most distant” in Arabic.
Masjid al-Aqsa is located in Jerusalem (Al-Quds).
It is mentioned in Surah Al-Isra (17:1) in connection with Isra and Mi’raj.
It was the first Qiblah (direction of prayer) in Islam.
Masjid al-Aqsa is one of the three most sacred mosques in Islam.
It is linked with many Prophets including Ibrahim (A.S), Dawood (A.S), and Isa (A.S).
The term highlights both physical distance from Makkah and its spiritual significance.
Discussion
Leave a Comment