Dome of the Rock
The Dome of the Rock is an Islamic shrine in Jerusalem’s Old City, on the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif.
The Dome of the Rock is an Islamic shrine located in Jerusalem’s Old City on the Temple Mount, known to Muslims as Haram al-Sharif. Constructed in the late 7th century under the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik, it is widely regarded as the oldest surviving Islamic monument. The site holds significance in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.
History
The shrine was built in the late 7th century during Umayyad rule, most commonly dated to 685–691 or 691–692 CE. It was commissioned by Abd al-Malik ibn Marwān and has survived as one of the earliest major Islamic monuments.
Religious significance
For Muslims, the site is linked to the Prophet Muhammad’s night journey and ascension. For Jews, the underlying rock is traditionally associated with the Foundation Stone and the biblical sacrifice of Isaac; Christians also regard the area as part of Jerusalem’s sacred landscape.
Architecture
The Dome of the Rock is an octagonal shrine crowned by a large golden dome. Its design and decoration reflect early Islamic architecture and remain among the most recognizable features of Jerusalem’s skyline.
Site and setting
The building stands on the Temple Mount, known to Muslims as the Haram al-Sharif, in Jerusalem’s Old City. It is closely associated with nearby holy places, including the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Western Wall.
Key facts
- The Dome of the Rock is a domed shrine at the centre of the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif in Jerusalem.
- Construction dates to the late 7th century under Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik.
- It is the oldest surviving Islamic monument.
- In Islam, the rock is associated with Muhammad's ascension to heaven (Mi'raj).
- In Judaism, the site is associated with the Foundation Stone and the binding of Isaac.
Canadian readers often encounter the Dome of the Rock in news coverage of Jerusalem, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and interfaith history. It is also a major reference point in Canadian academic, religious, and cultural discussions about the Holy Land.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dome of the Rock a mosque?
When was the Dome of the Rock built?
Who built the Dome of the Rock?
Why is it important in Islam?
Why is it important in Judaism?
Where is the Dome of the Rock located?
References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Dome-of-the-RockSupports: Late-7th-century construction, Umayyad patronage, Islamic significance, and status as an early Islamic monument.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/video/Overview-Dome-of-the-Rock-Jerusalem/-193425Supports: Location on Temple Mount in Jerusalem and its importance in Islam.
- Smarthistory — https://smarthistory.org/the-dome-of-the-rock-qubbat-al-sakhra/Supports: Construction period, patronage by Abd al-Malik, and architectural/historical context.
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dome_of_the_RockSupports: Arabic name, location in the Al-Aqsa compound, and broad architectural description.
- Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/Dome-of-the-Rock/627394Supports: Basic overview of the site, its age, and Jewish and Muslim associations with the rock.