🌟 Exploring Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah (الصخرة): The Sacred Rock of Jerusalem
Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah (Arabic: الصخرة), often referred to simply as “The Rock,” occupies a central place in Islamic eschatology and the architecture of faith. Nestled within the renowned Dome of the Rock (Qubbatu ʾṣ-Ṣak͟hrah), it stands upon the Temple Mount (Haram esh-Sharif) in Jerusalem — a crossroads of sacredness for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
🗺️ Etymology and Background
Etymology: Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah derives from the root Arabic word “ṣ-kh-r,” meaning “rock” or “boulder.” Hence, “الصخرة” translates directly into “The Rock.”
Mythical and Religious Accounts: According to Islamic tradition, Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah is said to be the foundation stone from which the universe was established. It once soared into the sky and served as a sanctuary for various prophets before settling into Jerusalem. The Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended to heaven from this very rock during the miraculous Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj) riding the celestial steed, Al-Burāq.
🌍 Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islam: It’s esteemed as the third holiest site, after Mecca and Medina, and is integral to narratives regarding the end times.
Judaism: Known as the “Foundation Stone,” it resides within the Holy of Holies of the First and Second Jewish Temples and is a pivotal site associated with creation ex nihilo.
Christianity: Referred to with respect on account of its association with the biblical heritage, predominantly centered around the Temple of Solomon narrative.
🗺️ Synonyms and Related Terms
Synonyms:
- The Foundation Stone
- Temple Rock
Antonyms:
- Profane Ground (non-sacred areas devoid of religious significance)
Related Terms:
- Qubbatu ʾṣ-Ṣak͟hrah (Dome of the Rock): The structure enveloping Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah, a prime symbol of Islamic architecture.
- Masjid al-Aqsa: Adjacent mosque forming a part of the compound of Haram esh-Sharif.
- Muqaddas: Refers to the “Holy” in “Baitul Muqaddas,” another term for Jerusalem’s sacred precinct.
🌠 Exciting Facts
- Sacred Misery: Ancient traditions recount that conquerors and believers saw disastrous upside-down fate upon mishandling of Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah.
- Tunnels: Enigmatic caverns below the rock hold archaeological and eschatological significance.
- Pagan Folklore: Claims suggest the Rock turned over cruciform structures when early pagan rituals impregnated the region.
📜 Quotations
- Imām Jalālu ʾd-dīn as-Suyūt̤ī: “When ye have finished their building upon this place, then take that place whose owners are accursed, and whence all holiness hath departed.”
- ‘Ali of Baghdad: “Tread more gently! That place at which Muqātil is… and on which thou art stamping, is the very place redolent of Heaven’s breezes.”
📚 Suggested Literature
- “The History of the Temple of Jerusalem” by Imām Jalālu ʾd-dīn as-Suyūt̤ī
- “Biblical Researches in Palestine” by Dr. Edward Robinson
- “Tent Work in Palestine” by Lieut. E.R. Conder R.E.
- “Jerusalem: The Holy City” by Karen Armstrong
- “The Dome of The Rock: An Architectural and Historical Guide” by Oleg Grabar
🔍 References
- Robinson, E. (1838). Biblical Researches in Palestine.
- Suyūt̤ī, J. (1835). The History of the Temple of Jerusalem (Arabic MS.), Reynolds’ ed.
- Conder, E.R. (1903). Tent Work in Palestine.
Farewell Thought:
Let the intricate history and celestial lore of Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah be a testament to the unending human quest for spiritual truth and interfaith reverence. May knowledge bridge our paths and shared heritage enlighten our ways.
— Fatima Al-Muhajir, 2023-10-10
