Temple Mount / Haram al-Sharif

Overview

Temple Mount is a walled compound in the Old City of Jerusalem, home to the Dome of the Rock, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Western Wall — sites central to Islam and Judaism respectively, and historically significant to Christianity. The convergence of three living traditions in one compound makes it one of the most religiously significant sites in the world and a major destination for active pilgrimage. It is also a longstanding flashpoint for religious and political conflict. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Present

The site operates under a complex arrangement known as the Status Quo. Israel has held sovereignty since 1967, but day-to-day civilian management is handled by the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf, an Islamic religious trust. Jordan maintains a custodial role over the Muslim holy sites. Muslims gather at the Al-Aqsa Mosque for congregational Friday prayers.

Religious Significance

Judaism *(from the 10th century BCE)* The Temple Mount is the holiest site in Judaism. Jewish tradition holds it as the location of Mount Moriah, where Abraham bound his son Isaac for sacrifice. The First and Second Temples stood here, and Jews worldwide face the Temple Mount in prayer. The Western Wall is a surviving retaining wall of the Second Temple complex and the closest accessible place where Jews may pray.

Christianity *(from the 1st century CE)* The site is significant in Christianity through its connection to Jesus, who is recorded in the New Testament as teaching within the Temple courts.

Islam *(from the 7th century CE)* The Temple Mount is the third holiest site in Islam. Islamic tradition holds that the Prophet Muhammad was transported here from Mecca during the Night Journey, and ascended to heaven from the Foundation Stone now housed within the Dome of the Rock. The Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock stand within the compound, and thousands of Muslims gather here for congregational Friday prayers.

History & Structure

The First Temple, built by King Solomon in the 10th century BCE, served as the center of Jewish worship until the Babylonians destroyed it in 586 BCE. The Second Temple was completed in 515 BCE, extensively renovated by Herod the Great from 19 BCE onward, and destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The platform visible today dates to Herod's expansion.

The Dome of the Rock was completed in 691 CE under Caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan. The Al-Aqsa Mosque was completed in the early 8th century CE. The Western Wall is a remnant of Herod's retaining wall.

The Old City of Jerusalem, including the Temple Mount compound, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Resources

• Wikipedia: Temple Mount
• News Archive: all news for this listing