Why do Muslims travel to Jerusalem?

For Muslims, Jerusalem is a site of key events in the life of Jesus and other important figures. It’s also the spot where, according to traditional interpretations of the Koran and other texts, the prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.

Are Muslims required to visit Jerusalem?

Many predominantly Muslim countries still issue travel restrictions and enforce legal repercussions for those who visit the Jewish state. Ironically, however, political and religious leaders of the Palestinian Authority (PA) have for several years spoken out in favor of Muslim visits to Jerusalem.

What is the holiest place in the religion of Islam?

Mecca
Mecca is considered the holiest city in Islam, as it is home to Islam’s holiest site Kaaba (‘Cube’) in the Masjid Al-Ḥaram (The Sacred Mosque). Only Muslims are allowed to enter this place.

What does God say about Jerusalem?

From a religious perspective, the Bible, which mentions Jerusalem more than any other place (about 800 times), states, “the Lord has chosen Jerusalem and will dwell there forever” (Psalm 132:13-14) and expressly calls upon God’s people to never forget Jerusalem and to “exalt it above their chief joy” (Psalm 137:5-6).

What are the two holy cities in Islam?

The two holiest sites of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia are directly mentioned or referred to in the Quran.

What did Jesus do in Jerusalem?

According to the New Testament, Jerusalem was the city to which Jesus was brought as a child, to be presented at the Temple (Luke 2:22) and to attend festivals (Luke 2:41). According to the canonical gospels, Jesus preached and healed in Jerusalem, especially in the Temple Courts.

When was the Jerusalem Temple destroyed?

587/586
The Temple suffered at the hands of Nebuchadrezzar II of Babylonia, who removed the Temple treasures in 604 bce and 597 bce and totally destroyed the building in 587/586.