On August 21, 1969, a devastating arson attack was carried out on Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam, located in Jerusalem. The attack was part of a broader effort by radical Zionist groups who sought to erase the mosque to make way for the construction of a Jewish temple. This tragic event, and the ongoing threats to the mosque, serve as a bitter reminder of the importance of defending our sacred places and heritage.
The Arson Attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque
Al-Aqsa Mosque is deeply significant in Islam. It is the first qibla (direction of prayer) and the third holiest site after the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah. On that fateful morning of August 21, 1969, the mosque was set on fire by an individual associated with extremist Zionist ideologies. The fire destroyed much of the mosque, including the pulpit of Saladin, a beautiful and historic part of the mosque. Despite efforts from local residents and volunteers from other Palestinian cities, the fire caused considerable damage, and the Israeli fire department’s delayed response raised suspicion that it was intentional negligence.
This attack was not an isolated incident. Al-Aqsa Mosque continues to face threats from radical Zionist groups and the Israeli government, including unauthorized excavations under the mosque, which have caused structural damage. Furthermore, plans to build a Jewish temple on the site of the mosque are a constant source of tension. These actions are part of a long-term agenda to undermine the Muslim heritage in the region.
The Significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Islam
Al-Aqsa Mosque holds immense religious significance for Muslims. It is mentioned in the Qur’an as the blessed land surrounding the mosque: “Glorified be He Who carried His servant by night from the Inviolable Place of Worship to the Far Distant Place of Worship the neighborhood whereof We have blessed” (Al-Israa’ 17: 1). This refers not only to the mosque itself but also to the surrounding land, which is considered sacred.
The mosque has also been the gathering place for many prophets, and it is where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) led all the previous prophets in prayer during the Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj). As such, it is a symbol of unity for Muslims across the world.
Muslims’ Duty Toward Al-Aqsa Mosque
In light of the ongoing threats to Al-Aqsa Mosque, Muslims have a profound responsibility to protect and defend it. As Dr. Mahmoud As-Saratawi, a prominent scholar of Islamic jurisprudence, emphasizes, the neglect of Al-Aqsa is akin to neglecting one’s religion and creed. Every Muslim has a duty to preserve the sanctity of this mosque, and this responsibility extends to all levels of society.
From an individual perspective, Muslims should educate themselves and others about the importance of Al-Aqsa. Parents should teach their children about the mosque’s status, and educators should instill a sense of reverence for Al-Aqsa in their students. Communities should unite to resist efforts to desecrate or undermine the mosque’s significance.
Moreover, Muslims are urged to be vocal in condemning actions that threaten the mosque’s sanctity. The Palestinian Scholars League and other organizations call on Muslim leaders, governments, and peace-loving institutions to take proactive measures to prevent further aggression against Al-Aqsa. The stakes are high, as the mosque represents the core of the Islamic creed. As one scholar aptly put it, “Everything is cheap compared to the safety of Al-Aqsa Mosque, even one’s property and family.”
Collective Efforts to Defend Al-Aqsa
Al-Aqsa Mosque is a symbol of unity for Muslims, and the defense of this sacred site is a collective duty. The Palestinian Scholars League, as well as other Islamic organizations, continue to call on Muslims worldwide to unite in preserving the mosque and preventing further desecration. This includes raising awareness, organizing peaceful protests, and engaging in political advocacy to ensure that the sanctity of Al-Aqsa is upheld.
The significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque is not confined to the Palestinian people alone; it is a matter for all Muslims. As the Qur’an reminds us, “Truly, the religion with Allah is Islam” (Al-`Imran 3: 19). The unity of the Muslim Ummah (community) is essential in safeguarding its sacred sites.
Conclusion
The tragic arson attack on Al-Aqsa Mosque in 1969 and the ongoing threats to its existence are a stark reminder of the importance of defending our sacred heritage. Al-Aqsa is not just a mosque; it is a symbol of Islamic identity and unity. Muslims worldwide have a collective responsibility to protect this sacred site, whether through education, advocacy, or direct action. The defense of Al-Aqsa is a testament to our commitment to preserving our faith, our heritage, and our connection to the blessed land of Jerusalem. May Allah guide us all to fulfill our duty and protect this sacred place from harm. Ameen.