Masjid Al-Aqsa: From Mairaj to the First Temple – Special Edition Series: From Sacred Grounds to Geopolitical Battleground, Trump's 'Riviera' Vision

We often hear that Masjid al-Aqsa is described as the "fort of Iman (Faith)." Is this simply because it was the first Qibla and remains a sacred place for the revealed religions, also famous as Land of Prophets? For Jews, it holds the significance of the Haikal e Sulaimani (The Second Temple) and the search for the Tabut al-Sakina (Ark of the Covenant); for Christians, although they may not directly contest the Ark itself, the theological, historical, and symbolic importance of the Ark has led to disputes over its fate, location, and significance, especially with Bethlehem holding great importance for them.

When I trace the history further, I encounter the occupation of Jerusalem from a broader perspective—one that transcends religious viewpoints. I refer to the Babylonians invading the area and exiling the Jews. We need to examine these fragmented pieces of history more carefully, because what is unfolding now seems to defy traditional religious narratives of conflict. On one hand, there is a ceasefire and people are returning to their homes; on the other, Netanyahu's meeting with Trump's proposal to take control of the Gaza Strip and transform it into the "Riviera of the Middle East" has sparked widespread criticism.

What I seek to understand is whether there could be a connection between these present-day events and the past? Could there be any cosmic relation, similar to the events of Isra and Mi'raj, where Surah Al-Isra provides insights into its surroundings?

What is it about this land that exerts such a powerful attraction? It seems more than just a piece of land; it holds a unique force, one that continues to engage both natives and outsiders, who appear to be motivated not by subjugation but by a free, independent mindset. Let's try to solve all of these puzzles one by one.

1. Is Masjid al-Aqsa a "fort of Iman" because it is the first Qibla and sacred to multiple religions?

Yes, Masjid al-Aqsa holds deep significance in Islam as the first Qibla, before it was changed to the Kaaba in Makkah. It is also sacred because of its connection to the events of the Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj), where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) traveled to Masjid al-Aqsa and then ascended to the heavens, met Prophets (AS). For Jews, Masjid al-Aqsa is the site of the Second Temple (Haikal e Sulaimani), and for Christians, it is historically significant as a central place of worship and related to the life of Jesus. These multiple religious connections certainly contribute to its status as a "fort of Iman."

However, Masjid al-Aqsa's significance is not merely because of its religious status in Judaism and Christianity, but because it also stands as a symbol of resistance and resilience in the face of occupation and political strife. This historical and religious convergence has added to the ongoing struggles over the region.

2. Can we draw a parallel between the events happening today and past events, such as the Babylonian exile?

The events unfolding today, including territorial disputes, occupation, and geopolitical strategies, can be seen in a broader historical context. The Babylonian exile, for example, was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, where the people were displaced from their land and faced significant trauma. This sets a precedent for understanding the importance of land, identity, and sacred space in religious conflicts. However, the modern-day situation in Jerusalem and Gaza cannot be fully explained by religious history alone.

The events today are deeply political, involving modern statecraft, international law, and complex economic interests. The ceasefires and the discussion of Gaza’s future under Netanyahu and Trump’s plans represent an ongoing struggle not just for control over sacred land but also for the broader geopolitics of the region, including economic and strategic interests. The idea of turning Gaza into the "Riviera of the Middle East" reflects a vision that could reshape the political and social landscape in ways that may ignore the deep-rooted historical and religious significance of the land.

3. Could there be a cosmic relation to these events, like the event of Isra and Mi'raj described in Surah Al-Isra?

In Islamic tradition, the event of Isra and Mi'raj is a profound spiritual experience for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), where he is taken on a miraculous night journey to Masjid al-Aqsa, and from there ascends to the heavens. This event emphasizes the spiritual significance of Masjid al-Aqsa in Islam and marks it as a sacred site.

"Exalted is He who took His Servant [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ)] by night from al-Masjid al-Ḥarām to al-Masjid al-Aqṣā,whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing." (Surah Al-Isra:1)

The cosmic relation  could be understood in the sense that religious history and spiritual dimensions continue to intersect with worldly events. While the situation today might not directly mirror the events of Isra and Mi'raj, the ongoing struggle for Masjid al-Aqsa and the surrounding areas can be seen as part of a broader cosmic or divine plan—one that highlights the importance of this sacred space in a larger theological framework. The Qur'an's references to Jerusalem and Masjid al-Aqsa point to a connection between the earthly and the divine, reminding believers of the deep spiritual dimensions that underpin such conflicts.

4. What is the attractive force of this land that transcends its material value?

The land of Jerusalem, especially Masjid al-Aqsa, exerts a magnetic force that goes beyond its physical or material significance. This force is spiritual, historical, and emotional, resonating deeply with believers of all three Abrahamic faiths. For Muslims, it is part of the sacred geography of Islam, for Jews it is central to their history and faith, and for Christians, it is the site of pivotal moments in the life of Jesus.

However, the attraction also lies in the symbolism of resistance, freedom, and identity. The people living there, despite the political and military pressures, continue to hold on to their faith, traditions, and sense of belonging. The land represents not just a contested geopolitical space but a powerful symbol of hope, resistance, and the desire for self-determination, free from external domination- very big and essential lessons to learn and needd today.

In essence, the attraction is both physical and metaphysical, with the land representing not just a place of historical and religious importance but a powerful point of connection for all those who value it, both within the region and globally.