TEHRAN (MNA): World Mosque Day, observed annually on August 21, marks the tragic anniversary of the 1969 arson attack on the al-Aqsa Mosque, a site of profound significance for Muslims worldwide. The day serves as a reminder of the crucial role mosques play in Islamic life and the need to protect these sacred spaces.
Fifty-one years ago, an extremist set fire to the al-Aqsa Mosque, causing extensive damage to this revered site, once the first qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims. The fire destroyed a large section of the mosque, including an ancient pulpit and other architectural features, sparking outrage and condemnation across the Islamic world. The United Nations Security Council responded by issuing Resolution 271, condemning the Israeli regime for the attack.
World Mosque Day now stands as a global occasion for Muslims to emphasize the importance of al-Aqsa, the third holiest site in Islam, and to raise awareness about the protection of religious sites.
Mosques, often referred to as the beating heart of Islam, serve as central places of worship, community gathering, and guidance for Muslims. They have historically been sites for discussing significant social, political, and religious issues, and continue to play a vital role in the spiritual and communal lives of Muslims. (Reported by Tohid Mahmoudpour)
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