Islamic Jerusalem: The Islamic Heritage and A Model of Peaceful Co-Existence

Abstract

Islamic Jerusalem, or Al-Quds, holds a vital status for three religions: Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, all of which claim to be the true inheritors of this shared heritage. History reveals that numerous Prophets resided here, and the "doors of the sky" opened many times to bring revelation and guidance to humanity, establishing this territory as the "Land of Prophets" and the "Land of Blessings." Despite its profound importance, contemporary academia—particularly Orientalist studies—often focuses on its significance to Judaism and Christianity, while marginalizing the Muslim perspective regarding this sacred sanctuary. These studies frequently frame the current political dynamics of the Palestine/Israel conflict as a purely Palestinian national issue with negligible connection to Islamic religious sources, specifically the Qur’an and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). This study addresses this gap by articulating the Muslim viewpoint, presenting the city as an integral Islamic heritage. Furthermore, it demonstrates that Islamic Jerusalem historically served as a model of multiculturalism and peaceful co-existence under Muslim rule, reflecting a fundamental principle of Islamic teaching. Employing a qualitative methodology rooted in an Islamic conceptual framework, this paper analyzes the sanctity of the city through primary Islamic sources. The paper concludes that Islamic Jerusalem represents a pure Islamic heritage and occupies a spiritual position in the hearts of Muslims that transcends the boundaries of a nationalistic Palestinian issue. Moreover, it represents a unique historical model of religious tolerance capable of being revived. In terms of international contribution, this study offers a vital alternative framework for global peacebuilders and policymakers. By shifting the narrative from a purely nationalistic conflict to a holistic religious-historical perspective, it provides a historical precedent for multicultural management that can be utilized to foster interfaith harmony and sustainable peace in one of the world's most contested regions.