In examining the historical development of al-Aqsa mosque and its history, Muslim researchers usually view it through the establishment of the Umayyad Islamic buildings within the walls of the al-Aqsa mosque enclave; however, earlier times are deliberately avoided. The reason for this ignorance is due to their intention not to address the issue of the Jewish Temple or as a result of the scarcity and unreliable solid information on the ancient times of al-Aqsa mosque. This paper is part of an earlier study for the researcher aimed at identifying the history of the al-Aqsa mosque and its planning origin. It investigates the archaeological remains of the al-Aqsa mosque that existed at the beginning of the 7^th century CE; a period which is contemporary with the mention of al-Aqsa mosque in the Holy Qur’ān. The later Islamic urban development of al-Aqsa mosque does not merely form a major part of this debate. The importance of this paper is due to the fact that it will shed light on a number of crucial problems and dilemmas arise on the distant ancient history and architectural development of the al-Aqsa mosque.  It also provides some material evidence that may in turn help researchers to develop a better understanding on the establishment of al-Aqsa mosque and its actual identity. The paper uses inter-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary approaches based on the newly archeological discoveries and academic studies on al-Aqsa mosque.

Conference Title

the 13th international academic conference on Islamicjerusalem studies (Palestine and Islamicjerusalem)

Conference Country

Malaysia

Conference Date

April 10, 2012 - April 12, 2012

Conference Sponsor

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)ز