Comprehensive Definition
Jerusalem, often referred to as al-Baitu ʾl-Muqaddas (البيت المقدس), translates as “the Holy House” or Baitu ʾl-Maqdis (بيت المقدس), “the House of the Sanctuary” in Arabic. The city is also known as Aurashalīm (اورشليم) and Iliyāʾ (ايلياء), the latter deriving from the Roman name Aelia Capitolina. Despite being a central theme in Islamic traditions, Jerusalem is not mentioned by name in the Qurʾān. The Qurʾānic references primarily center around its temple or its alias, al-Baitu ʾl-Muqaddas.
Etymology
- Al-Baitu ʾl-Muqaddas (البيت المقدس): Translates to “the Holy House,” indicating reverence.
- Baitu ʾl-Maqdis (بيت المقدس): Literally means “the House of the Sanctuary,” enhancing the sacredness.
- Aurashalīm (اورشليم): A variation reflecting the Hebrew name.
- Iliyāʾ (ايلياء): Derived from Aelia Capitolina, a name given by the Romans after Emperor Hadrian.
Background
Jerusalem’s earliest allusions in Islamic traditions are through the stories narrated in the Qurʾān. Examples include:
- Sūrah ii. 55: God speaks to the children of Israel about entering a blessed city.
- Sūrah xvii. 1: References Prophet Muhammad’s night journey (Isrāʾ) from Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to Masjid al-Aqṣā in Jerusalem.
Cultural Context
Jerusalem’s importance in Islam is paralleled by its significance in Judaism and Christianity. It houses key religious sites like:
- Masjidu ʾl-Aqṣā (The Farthest Mosque): A key location in Prophet Muhammad’s night journey.
- Aṣ-Ṣak͟hrah (The Sacred Rock): Later enshrined in the Dome of the Rock.
Synonyms
- Holy City: Reflects its universal religious significance.
- Sanctified House: Suggests sacredness specifically time-honored in Muslim reverment.
Antonyms
- Profane place
- Unsanctified
Related Terms
- Miʿrāj (Ascent): The ascension of Prophet Muhammad.
- Masjid al-Haram: The Sacred Mosque in Mecca, from which Muhammad embarked on his night journey.
- Al-Quds (القدس): Another Arabic name for Jerusalem, denoting sanctity.
Exciting Facts
- Jerusalem was a cornerstone in the intricate political and religious relationships in early Islamic history, often seen as a unifier for the growing Muslim empire.
- The city is envisioned as the gathering place for humankind on Judgment Day, as narrated in many Islamic hadiths.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- Jalālu ʾd-dīn as-Suyūt̤ī: “Jerusalem is specially honoured as being the scene of the repentance of David and Solomon … and it will be there that God Almighty will destroy [Gog and Magog].”
Suggested Literature
- “Islam’s Quantum Question” by Prof. Nidhal Guessoum - For insights into current religious and scientific discussions.
- “The Glory of Jerusalem in Islam” - Edited by multiple scholars, delving into historical, religious, and cultural importance.
Quiz Time! 📚
May your journey be as enlightening as the divine nocturnal voyage. Pursue knowledge, cherish history, and let sacred lessons be the torchbearers of truth.
Farewell,
Ibrahim Tawfiq
2023-10-04
