Jerusalem, Israel
A good word is like a good tree whose root is firmly fixed and whose top is in the sky.
—Qur’an, 14–Ibrahim
Al-Aqsa, the second-oldest and third–most sacred mosque in Islam, stands on a holy site of prayer once occupied by the Crusaders and later by the Knights Templar. Built in A.D. 1033 after an earthquake demolished the existing mosque, Al-Aqsa is also one of Islam’s most important learning and worship centers and the largest mosque in Jerusalem, with the capacity to accommodate five thousand worshippers.
If you seek spiritual guidance or increased knowledge of the Islamic faith, visit this mosque. Located on Temple Mount in Jerusalem’s Old City, Al-Aqsa and the Dome of the Rock form the centerpieces of the Noble Sanctuary (Haram al-Sharif), 35 enclosed acres of sacred gardens, fountains, and structures.
Worshippers are expected to ritually purify themselves before entering the mosque. A woman’s body and hair must be covered, and men and women pray in separate areas. The mosque’s main ablution fountain, al-Kas (the Cup)—situated between the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque—has taps and stone benches.
Stand attentively, quietly disconnecting from the world, and consider that you are standing in the presence of Allah or God. After the traditional ritual prayer, issue your personal prayer of petition or gratitude.
Al-Masjid El-Aqsa in Arabic means “farthest mosque” and alludes to Prophet Muhammad’s legendary Night Journey from Mecca to Jerusalem, which the Dome of the Rock venerates.