Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock: Built on Blood and Betrayal

The Construction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock: A Complex History

The Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock are two of the most significant Islamic structures in Jerusalem, and their construction is a topic of great interest and debate. While these buildings are revered as sacred sites by Muslims, their history is complex and multifaceted.

The Builder: Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan

Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan was the Umayyad Caliph who commissioned the construction of the Dome of the Rock in 691 CE. While he is often referred to as a holy man, his actual character and motivations are subject to interpretation.

* **Umayyad Politics**: Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan was a member of the Umayyad dynasty, which ruled the Islamic empire from 661 to 750 CE. The Umayyads were known for their complex and often contentious relationships with the Prophet Muhammad's family and other Islamic leaders.

* **Opposition to the Prophet's Family**: Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan's ancestors had a history of opposition to the Prophet Muhammad and his family. The Umayyads were seen as rivals to the Prophet's descendants, who were known as the Hashemites.

* **Motivations for Building the Dome**: The exact motivations behind Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan's decision to build the Dome of the Rock are unclear. Some historians believe that he may have built the structure to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey (Isra' wal-Mi'raj), while others suggest that it may have been a way to assert his power and legitimacy as caliph.

The Construction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque

The Al-Aqsa Mosque was built in the 7th century CE, during the Umayyad period. While its exact construction date is unclear, it is believed to have been built shortly after the Dome of the Rock.

* **Umayyad Architecture**: The Al-Aqsa Mosque was built in the style of Umayyad architecture, which was characterized by its use of domes, arches, and intricate mosaics.

* **Relationship to the Dome of the Rock**: The Al-Aqsa Mosque is often seen as a companion structure to the Dome of the Rock, and the two buildings are closely tied together in Islamic tradition.

Conclusion

The construction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock is a complex and multifaceted topic, marked by controversy and debate. While these buildings are revered as sacred sites by Muslims, their history is closely tied to the politics and power struggles of the Umayyad dynasty.

Hint: The Muslims are dying for buildings constructed by their Prophets enemies. Who persecuted and killed his family!!

Time to WAKE UP