Glory of Makkah or Zion in ISAIAH

IS IT THE GLORY OF MAKKAH AL-MUKKARAMAH
OR ZION IN ISAIAH (BIBLE), CHAPTER 60?

Dear Reader(Christians and Jewish People),

This article was not written to hurt your feeling, but to provide you with the facts of what were prophesied in the Bible and fulfilled in reality in the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah. If there is any harshness or rudeness in this articles written in this article, I would like to apologize for it.

Is it the Glory of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah or Zion that God (Allah .S.W.T) refers to in the Bible? The prophecies regarding the Glory of Zion are stated below.

1. ISAIAH, Joy of the Redeemed 35:8-10

8 And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it.

9 No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there,

10 and those the LORD has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

2. ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60:11

11Your gates will always stand open, they will never be shut, day or night, so that people may bring you the wealth of the nations— their kings led in triumphal procession.

3. ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60:16-18

16You will drink the milk of nations and be nursed at royal breasts. Then you will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

17 Instead of bronze I will bring you gold, and silver in place of iron. Instead of wood I will bring you bronze, and iron in place of stones. I will make peace your governor and well-being your ruler.

18 No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.

4. ISAIAH, Zion’s New Name, 62

12 They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted.

Zion refers to a Judaism mountain near Jerusalem: one of the hills of Jerusalem, in Biblical times emblematic of the house or household of God and later by extension the Jewish people and their religion.

Source : Gate One Travel

Located 773.30 miles or 1244.24 Km south of Jerusalem region is the holy city of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah in the Hijaz region of western Saudi Arabia, The city lies inland 73 kilometers east of Jeddah, in the narrow, sandy Valley of Abraham. The Holy City is 277 meters (909 feet) above sea level. For further details refer to the following picture of Israel and Arab Saudi.


Map of Israel	Map of Arab Saudi

1. Contradiction In The Bible

Based on the following prophecy there will be no lion or ravenous beast to be found near Zion.

ISAIAH, Joy of the Redeemed 35:9

9 No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there,

Why there are lion and bear near to Zion? As stated below in ECCLESIASTES & 1 SAMUEL that Prophet David a.s. has killed lion and bear when he was keeping his father's sheep in Bethlehem. The distance between Zion and Bethlehem is about 10 km only and it is nearby for the lion and ravenous beast to reach Zion.

a. ECCLESIASTES, Everything Is Meaningless, 1:1

1 The words of the Teacher, a son of David, king in Jerusalem:

b. 1 SAMUEL, David and Goliath, 17:12-14

12Now David was the son of an Ephrathite named Jesse, who was from Bethlehem in Judah.Jesse had eight sons, and in Saul’s time he was very old.

13Jesse’s three oldest sons had followed Saul to the war: The firstborn was Eliab; the second, Abinadab; and the third, Shammah.

14David was the youngest. The three oldest followed Saul,

15but David went back and forth from Saul to tend his father’s sheep at Bethlehem.

c. 1 SAMUEL, David and Goliath 17:33-37

33 Saul replied, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are little more than a boy, and he has been a warrior from his youth.”

34 But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock,

35 I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it.

36 Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God.

37 The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the LORD be with you.”

In addition to that, the vegetation near Jerusalem in Palestine are more dense for lion and bear to camouflage than in Makkah. Moreover, the temperature in Makkah can reach as high as forty five degrees Celsius (45 °C). This proof that lions and ravenous beast have been living near to Jerusalem and to identify Zion as the promise place of God's glory is incorrect.

2. The Prophecy Should Been Fulfilled In Past, When Camels Were Used As a Mean Of Tranportation.

I know that mankind is the most quarrelsome creation created by God (Allah S.W.T) as stated below.

Surah Al-Kafh (The Cave) / Chapter 18

54. And indeed We have put forth every kind of example in this Qur'ân, for mankind. But, man is ever more quarrelsome than anything.

You will say that at the moment there are no lion and bear near to Jerusalem only the Palestine and Israilites fighting for Jerusalem, maybe the beast only lived there in the past and the prophecy will be fulfilled in future.

Then why God mentioned below in Isaiah that herds of camels will cover your land, young camels from Midian and Ephah. We know that the age of camels as a mean of transportation has already passed. People don't use camels to go to Jerusalem from Sheba (Yemen) anymore.

ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60

6 Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the LORD.

7 All Kedar’s flocks will be gathered to you, the rams of Nebaioth will serve you; they will be accepted as offerings on my altar, and I will adorn my glorious temple.

To argue that this prophecy was fulfilled during Prophet Jesus a.s is totally inaccurate. Because we know that Prophet Jesus a.s. didn't manage to save himself from the persecution of chief priests, jewish elders and the Romans as stated in Matthew, Chapter 27 and 28. Then, how on earth Prophet Jesus a.s. was able to fulfill this prophecy?

Dear Reader, we muslim has been ordained by God (Allah S.W.T) through the Unlettered Prophet (Prophet Muhammad S.A.W) to do pilgrimage to Makkah to perform Hajj as stated in the following verses from the Holy Quran.

a. Surah A-li Imran / Chapter 3

96. Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for Al-'Alamîn (the mankind and jinns).
97. In it are manifest signs (for example), the Maqâm (place) of Ibrâhim (Abraham); whosoever enters it, he attains security. And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka'bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allâh, those who can afford the expenses (for one's conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allâh], then Allâh stands not in need of any of the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinns).

b. Surah Al-Hajj (The Pilgrimage) / Chapter 22

27. And proclaim to mankind the Hajj (pilgrimage). They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel, they will come from every deep and distant (wide) mountain highway (to perform Hajj).

28. That they may witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e. reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention the Name of Allâh on appointed days (i.e. 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day of Dhul-Hijjâh), over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice) (at the time of their slaughtering by saying: Bismillah, Wallâhu-Akbar, Allâhumma Minka wa Ilaik). Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor who have a very hard time.

In the past, Muslims from Yemen, Madinah, and other nearby cities made pilgrimage to Makkah to perform Hajj (Major pilgrimage) and Umrah (Minor pilgrimage) by riding camels. Notice the statement that people will come on foot and on every lean camel in Surah Al-Hajj, verse 27 stated above. There is similarity between the verses in ISAIAH, 60:6-7 and Surah Al-Hajj (The Pilgrimage), 22:27 regarding people will come to the city of God by foot and by riding camels and this prophecy was fulfilled in Makkah in the past.

Your God (Christian) and our God (muslim) is the same God stated in Isaiah , Chapter 46, verse 9 as stated below. Not Prophet Jesus a.s.!

Isaiah, Gods of Babylon, 46:9

9 Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.

Now, in term of these prophecies that no lions and herds of camel coming to the promise land of God, Makkah is a better candidate than Zion.

1st Prophecy - The Unclean Will Not Journey On It

Non-Muslims And Mecca

Based on the following prophecy, it is well known fact that non-muslim are not allowed to enter Makkah. Road blocks are stationed along roads leading to the city. The unclean in the prophecy refers to polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh and in the Message of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

ISAIAH, Joy of the Redeemed 35:8

8 And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it.

The same statement of non-muslim are unclean to enter the holy city of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah is stated below in the Holy Quran(Surah Al-Taubah, verse 28).

Surah Al-Taubah (The Repentance) / Chapter 9

28. O you who believe (in Allâh's Oneness and in His Messenger (Muhammad )! Verily, the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh, and in the Message of Muhammad ) are Najasun (impure) . So let them not come near Al-Masjid-al-Harâm (at Makkah) after this year, and if you fear poverty, Allâh will enrich you if He will, out of His Bounty. Surely, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

The most celebrated incident of a non-Muslim visiting Mecca was the visit by the British explorer Sir Richard Burton in 1853. Burton disguised himself as an Afghani Muslim to visit and write Personal Narrative of a Pilgrimage to Al Madinah and Mecca.

2nd Prophecy - No Lion Will Be There, Nor Any Ravenous Beast; They Will Not Be Found There.

I have stated earlier regarding this point. The weather itself is to hot for lions or ravenous beast to roam in Makkah or the surrounding areas. There are not much vegetation or natural shelter for the animals to take cover from the scorching heat.

ISAIAH, Joy of the Redeemed 35:9

9 No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there,

3rd Prophecy - Your Gates Will Always Stand Open, They Will Never Be Shut, Day Or Night.

Do you have any other cities or pilgrimage center other than Makkah Al-Mukkaramah with the following description from the Jewish or Christian faith?

ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60

11Your gates will always stand open, they will never be shut, day or night, so that people may bring you the wealth of the nations— their kings led in triumphal procession.

Muslims who can afford shall make pilgrimage to Makkah as one of the Five Pillars of Faith. Every year about three million gather to make Hajj (major pilgrimage) during the month of Dzul Hijjah and many more perform Umrah (minor pilgrimage) any time of year. The main mosque in Makkah is the Masjid al Haram, the gates of Masjid al Haram have always been opened, never shut closed, day and night in order for the muslims to perform their prayers and pilgrimage as ordained by God (Allah S.W.T).

The main attraction in the mosque is the Kaaba, the "House of God" believed by Muslims to have been built by Abraham and his son Ishmael, and which is covered in a gold-embroidered black fabric. Pilgrims circle the Kaaba seven times and may also try to touch or kiss its cornerstone, the Black Stone.

All Muslims, wherever they are on Earth, pray five times a day in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca (located at 21° 25' 24" N and 39° 49' 24" E in DMS notation). The direction of prayer is known as the qibla. The Masjid al Haram (or Sacred Mosque), is for Muslims the holiest mosque on Earth.

I don't think my Christians friends have a main pilgrimage center in Jerusalem or in Zion were millions make pilgrimage to fulfill this prophecy. If you're saying that your main pilgrimage center is in Rome then this simply negates your own bible.

Dear Friend, do you want to have a look of the mosques that her gates are always open, never closed, day or night, please refer to the following pictures.

Picture 1 - Masjid Al-Haram

Picture 2 - Kaaba

Mecca 3

Picture 3 - Kaaba

Masjid Al-Haram (aerial view)

Picture 4 - Masjid Al Haram (aerial view)
Source : University College Dublin

4th Prophecy - No Longer Will Violence Be Heard In Your Land

Are you bit sceptical about the points I have mentioned to you. If you're bit sceptical then I don't blame you. It is hard to change ones believe after it has been hard coded in our heart for many years.

a. Nursed At Royal Breasts

Frankly speaking, do you think the statement below in ISAIAH "be nursed at royal breasts" is the word of God? I don't think so.

ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60

16You will drink the milk of nations and be nursed at royal breasts. Then you will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

b. The Prophecies Of Peace And Well Being Of The Chosen City

Back to the prophecies stated below in verse 17.

ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60

17 Instead of bronze I will bring you gold, and silver in place of iron. Instead of wood I will bring you bronze, and iron in place of stones. I will make peace your governor and well-being your ruler.

It has been for many years muslims were able to make pilgrimage to Makkah. This is only possible by having peace and well being in Makkah and it's region Hijaz. If you refer to the prophecy stated in verse 17, God will provide peace and well being.

Furthermore in the Holy Quran, the city of Makkah is called as the city of security as stated below.

Surah At-Tin (The Fig) / Chapter 95

1. By the fig, and the olive,
2. By Mount Sinai,
3. And by this city of security (Makkah) ,

God (Allah S.W.T) reiterates in the Holy Quran that He has established Makkah as a safe sanctuary and has provided with all kinds good providence for her people as stated below in Surah Al-Qasas.

Surah Al-Qasas (The Stories) / Chapter 28

57. And they say: "If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land." Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary (Makkah), to which are brought fruits of all kinds, a provision from Ourselves, but most of them know not.

Makkah Al-Mukkaramah is the chosen city!

c. The Prophecy of No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders

ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, 60

18 No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.

In the past and present, Makkah has been protected from wars and destruction by earth quakes that occurred in surrounding countries.

However, the countries surrounding Arab Saudi in the Middle East at the moment and in the past were clouded with major turmoils such as following events.

1. Arab-Israel confrontation in 1948 and 1967.
2. Iraq-Iran conflict.
3. Kuwait Invasion by Iraq.
4. Iraq invaded by U.S.A and her allies in 2003.
5. Darfur Crisis in Sudan.
6. Earthquakes in Turkey and Iran (2003)
7. Confrontation between the Palestine and Israelites
(Uprising in 2000-[Intifada]).

Moreover, civilian and aid workers have been kidnapped from the surrounding areas.

Miraculously, Makkah and Madinah have escaped from the turmoils and have provided a save sanctuary for the pilgrims to make their Hajj and Umrah every year. This situation has already been stated below in the Holy Quran (more than 1400 years ago) and fulfilled until now.

Surah Al-Ankabut (The Spider) / Chapter 29

67. Have they not seen that We have made (Makkah) a sanctuary secure, and that men are being snatched away from all around them? Then do they believe in Bâtil (falsehood - polytheism, idols and all deities other than Allâh), and deny (become ingrate for) the Graces of Allâh?

68. And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allâh or denies the truth (Muhammad and his doctrine of Islâmic Monotheism and this Qur'ân), when it comes to him? Is there not a dwelling in Hell for disbelievers (in the Oneness of Allâh and in His Messenger Muhammad )?

69. As for those who strive hard in Us (Our Cause), We will surely guide them to Our Paths (i.e. Allâh's Religion - Islâmic Monotheism). And verily, Allâh is with the Muhsinûn (good doers)."

Only some minor mishap happened in the Holy City of Makkah in the past, but this didn't disturb or stop pilgrims from making pilgrimage to the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah to perform Hajj (Major Pilgrimage) and Umrah (Minor Pilgrimage) every year.

Whereas, Zion (Jerusalem) has not escaped the Arab-Israel conflict in 1967 and until now her compounds and vicinities are filled with conflicts between the Palestine and Israelites.

Since Palestinian's uprising in year 2000 the situation there in Jerusalem has much deteriorated. Only now there is temporary cease-fire between the Palestine and Israelites.

This further strengthen the prophecy stated in verse 18 above that Makkah is the chosen city of God (Allah S.W.T).

d. The Prophecy of "You Will Call Your Walls Salvation"

In my humble believe, the phrase "your walls salvation" stands for salvation and protection from Hell fire and other calamities in life and after death which we muslims pray a lot to God (Allah S.W.T) when we perform prayer and when we make pilgrimage to Makkah to perform Hajj (major pilgrimage) or Umrah (minor pilgrimage) for those muslims that can afford to go Makkah.

I have stated the relevant Prophet Muhamad S.A.W sayings from Sahih Muslim for your information.

Chapter 77: The Merit Of Hajj And Umra And The Day Of 'Arafa (The 9th Of Dhu'l-Hijja)

Book 007, Number 3126:

'A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: There is no day when God sets free more servants from Hell than the Day of 'Arafa. He draws near, then praises them to the angels, saying: What do these want?

Book 007, Number 3127:

Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: An Umra is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the next, and Hajj which is accepted will receive no other reward than Paradise.

Book 007, Number 3129:

Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying. He who came to this House (Ka'ba) (with the intention of performing Pilgrimage), and neither spoke indecently nor did he act wickedly. would return (free from sin) as on the (very first day) his mother bore him.

e. The Prophecy of "And Your Gates Praise"

The phrase "your gates praise" stands for the amount praises that muslims chant and pray to God (Allah S.W.T) for His blessings and providence. In addition to, that we will request to Him that He will safe us from the fire of Hell and admit us into the Paradise through His mercy. Allah S.W.T knows best. The prayer that we chant during pilgrimage to Makkah is stated in the following Prophet Muhamad S.A.W saying in Sahih Bukhari.

Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 26: Pilgrimmage (Hajj)
Volume 2, Book 26, Number 621:
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Umar :

The Talbiya of Allah's Apostle was : 'Labbaika Allahumma labbaik, Labbaika la sharika Laka labbaik, Inna-l-hamda wan-ni'mata Laka walmu Lk, La sharika Laka' (I respond to Your call O Allah, I respond to Your call, and I am obedient to Your orders, You have no partner, I respond to Your call All the praises and blessings are for You, All the sovereignty is for You, And You have no partners with you.

5th Prophecy - You Will Be Called Sought After, The City No Longer Deserted.

ISAIAH, Zion’s New Name, 62

12 They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted.

Mecca

Originally, the english translation of Makkah al-Mukkaramah was known as Mecca. The term Mecca has been used by westerners to mean any-important site for any particular group or religion. For example, San Francisco is a mecca for the gays in U.S.A. In order to avoid this, the Saudi Arabian government changed the name (English Translation) of Mecca to Makkah al-Mukkaramah in 1980.

The following meanings of mecca are stated below, taken from various sources.

a. Mecca
• noun a place which attracts many people of a particular group or with a particular interest.
— ORIGIN from the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims.

Source : http://www.askoxford.com

b. Mecca ( P ) Pronunciation Key (mk)
n.
A place that is regarded as the center of an activity or interest.
A goal to which adherents of a religious faith or practice fervently aspire.
A place visited by many people: a mecca for tourists.

Source: The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

c. Mecca

n 1: joint capital (with Riyadh) of Saudi Arabia; located in western Saudi Arabia; as the birthplace of Muhammad it is the holiest city of Islam [syn: Mecca]
2: a place that attracts many visitors; "New York is a mecca for young artists"

Source: WordNet ® 2.0, © 2003 Princeton University

In the prophecy the city "Will Be Called Sought After, The City No Longer Deserted", whereas the term Mecca metaphorically used by westerners to mean a place that attracts many visitors or a place that is regarded as the center of an activity or interest. The similarity between the prophecy and the term Mecca used by westerners is too great to be coincidental. This proof that Makkah is the prophesied city in Isaiah, Chapter 62. It is not Zion's new name.

In the Bible, there are lot of evidence to proof that Bible were written by men and the facts has been distorted. The examples are stated below.

1. Song of Songs 7:7-8.

7 Your stature is like that of the palm, and your breasts like clusters of fruit.
8 I said, "I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit." May your breasts be like clusters of grapes on the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples,
9 and your mouth like the best wine.

2. Ezekiel 16:26, Jerusalem as an Adulterous Wife.

26 You engaged in prostitution with the Egyptians, your neighbors with large genitals, and aroused my anger with your increasing promiscuity.

3. Ezekiel 23:20-21, Two Adulterous Sisters

20 There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses.
21 So you longed for the lewdness of your youth, when in Egypt your bosom was caressed and your young breasts fondled.

4. Proverbs 5:18-19, Warning Against Adultery

18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
19 A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.

In addition to that, the following verse from the Holy Quran clearly states that a party of Jewish Rabbi has changed the content of Taurat ( Torah ) knowingly after they understood it.

Surah Al-Baqarah/Chapter 2, verse 75

75. Do you (faithful believers) covet that they will believe in your religion inspite of the fact that a party of them (Jewish rabbis) used to hear the Word of Allâh [the Taurât (Torah)], then they used to change it knowingly after they understood it?

Even though, the name of the city has been changed in the Bible by Jewish Rabbis in the past, all the facts and evidence clearly points that the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah is the city prophesied in ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, Chapter 60.

Therefore, I would like to conclude that the prophecy in ISAIAH, The Glory of Zion, Chapter 60 is actually fulfilled in the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah.

May God (Allah S.W.T) guides us to the safety of Paradise from the scorching fire of Hell.. (Amen)

Additional information from the Holy Quran and Sahih Bukhari to support the fact that The Glory of Zion in ISAIAH, Chapter 60 (in the Bible) is actually the Glory of Makkah Al-Mukkaramah.

1. Prophet Abraham a.s. Constructs the First Mosque on Earth in Makkah Al - Mukkaramah

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

125. And (remember) when We made the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) a place of resort for mankind and a place of safety. And take you (people) the Maqâm (place) of Ibrâhim (Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibrâhim (Abraham) stood while he was building the Ka'bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. two Rak'at after the Tawâf of the Ka'bah at Makkah), and We commanded Ibrâhim (Abraham) and Ismâ'il (Ishmael) that they should purify My House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) for those who are circumambulating it, or staying (I'tikâf), or bowing or prostrating themselves (there, in prayer).

126. And (remember) when Ibrâhim (Abraham) said, "My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allâh and the Last Day." He (Allâh) answered: "As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!"

127. And (remember) when Ibrâhim (Abraham) and (his son) Ismâ'il (Ishmael) were raising the foundations of the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah), (saying), "Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower."
128. "Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our Manâsik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage - Hajj and 'Umrah, etc.), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.

129. "Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own (and indeed Allâh answered their invocation by sending Muhammad Peace be upon him ), who shall recite unto them Your Verses and instruct them in the Book (this Qur'ân) and Al-Hikmah (full knowledge of the Islâmic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood, etc.), and sanctify them. Verily! You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise."

130. And who turns away from the religion of Ibrâhim (Abraham) (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism) except him who befools himself? Truly, We chose him in this world and verily, in the Hereafter he will be among the righteous.

2. Be Jews Or Christians, Then You Will Be Guided

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

135. And they say, "Be Jews or Christians, then you will be guided." Say (to them, O Muhammad Peace be upon him ), "Nay, (We follow) only the religion of Ibrâhim (Abraham), Hanifa [Islâmic Monotheism, i.e. to worship none but Allâh (Alone)], and he was not of Al-Mushrikûn (those who worshipped others along with Allâh - see V.2:105)."

136. Say (O Muslims), "We believe in Allâh and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Ibrâhim (Abraham), Ismâ'il (Ishmael), Ishâque (Isaac), Ya'qûb (Jacob), and to Al-Asbât [the twelve sons of Ya'qûb (Jacob)], and that which has been given to Mûsa (Moses) and 'Iesa (Jesus), and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islâm)."

137. So if they believe in the like of that which you believe, then they are rightly guided, but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allâh will suffice you against them. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.

138. [Our Sibghah (religion) is] the Sibghah (Religion) of Allâh (Islâm) and which Sibghah (religion) can be better than Allâh's? And we are His worshippers. [Tafsir Ibn Kathîr.]

3. What Has Turned Them (Muslims) From Their Qiblah

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

142. The fools (pagans, hypocrites, and Jews) among the people will say, "What has turned them (Muslims) from their Qiblah [prayer direction (towards Jerusalem)] to which they were used to face in prayer." Say, (O Muhammad ) "To Allâh belong both, east and the west. He guides whom He wills to a Straight Way."

143. Thus We have made you [true Muslims - real believers of Islâmic Monotheism, true followers of Prophet Muhammad and his Sunnah (legal ways)], a Wasat (just) (and the best) nation, that you be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger (Muhammad ) be a witness over you. And We made the Qiblah (prayer direction towards Jerusalem) which you used to face, only to test those who followed the Messenger (Muhammad ) from those who would turn on their heels (i.e. disobey the Messenger). Indeed it was great (heavy) except for those whom Allâh guided. And Allâh would never make your faith (prayers) to be lost (i.e. your prayers offered towards Jerusalem). Truly, Allâh is full of kindness, the Most Merciful towards mankind.

144. Verily! We have seen the turning of your (Muhammad's ) face towards the heaven. Surely, We shall turn you to a Qiblah (prayer direction) that shall please you, so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid- al-Harâm (at Makkah). And wheresoever you people are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction. Certainly, the people who were given the Scriptures (i.e. Jews and the Christians) know well that, that (your turning towards the direction of the Ka'bah at Makkah in prayers) is the truth from their Lord. And Allâh is not unaware of what they do.

145. And even if you were to bring to the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) all the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), they would not follow your Qiblah (prayer direction), nor are you going to follow their Qiblah (prayer direction). And they will not follow each other's Qiblah (prayer direction). Verily, if you follow their desires after that which you have received of knowledge (from Allâh), then indeed you will be one of the Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.).

4. A Party Of Them (Jews And Christians) Conceal The Truth

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

146. Those to whom We gave the Scripture (Jews and Christians) recognise him (Muhammad or the Ka'bah at Makkah) as they recongise their sons. But verily, a party of them conceal the truth while they know it - [i.e. the qualities of Muhammad which are written in the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)].

147. (This is) the truth from your Lord. So be you not one of those who doubt.

5. Turn Your Face (For Prayers) In The Direction Of Al-Masjid-Al-Harâm (At Makkah)

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

149. And from wheresoever you start forth (for prayers), turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Harâm (at Makkah), that is indeed the truth from your Lord. And Allâh is not unaware of what you do.

150. And from wheresoever you start forth (for prayers), turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Harâm (at Makkah), and wheresoever you are, turn your faces towards, it (when you pray) so that men may have no argument against you except those of them that are wrong-doers, so fear them not, but fear Me! - And so that I may complete My Blessings on you and that you may be guided.

6. Two Mountains In Makkah

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

158. Verily! As-Safâ and Al-Marwah (two mountains in Makkah) are of the Symbols of Allâh. So it is not a sin on him who perform Hajj or 'Umrah (pilgrimage) of the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) to perform the going (Tawâf) between them (As-Safâ and Al-Marwah). And whoever does good voluntarily, then verily, Allâh is All-Recogniser, All-Knower.

7. Those Who Conceal The Clear Proofs, Evidences And The Guidance

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

159. Verily, those who conceal the clear proofs, evidences and the guidance, which We have sent down, after We have made it clear for the people in the Book, they are the ones cursed by Allâh and cursed by the cursers.

160. Except those who repent and do righteous deeds, and openly declare (the truth which they concealed). These, I will accept their repentance. And I am the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.

8. Major (Hajj) And Minor (Umrah) Pilgrimage

Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) / Chapter 2

196. And perform properly (i.e. all the ceremonies according to the ways of Prophet Muhammad ), the Hajj and 'Umrah (i.e. the pilgrimage to Makkah) for Allâh. But if you are prevented (from completing them), sacrifice a Hady (animal, i.e. a sheep, a cow, or a camel, etc.) such as you can afford, and do not shave your heads until the Hady reaches the place of sacrifice. And whosoever of you is ill or has an ailment in his scalp (necessitating shaving), he must pay a Fidyah (ransom) of either observing Saum (fasts) (three days) or giving Sadaqah (charity - feeding six poor persons) or offering sacrifice (one sheep). Then if you are in safety and whosoever performs the 'Umrah in the months of Hajj, before (performing) the Hajj, (i.e. Hajj-at-Tamattu' and Al-Qirân), he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford, but if he cannot afford it, he should observe Saum (fasts) three days during the Hajj and seven days after his return (to his home), making ten days in all. This is for him whose family is not present at Al-Masjid-al-Harâm (i.e. non-resident of Makkah). And fear Allâh much and know that Allâh is Severe in punishment.

197. The Hajj (pilgrimage) is (in) the well-known (lunar year) months (i.e. the 10th month, the 11th month and the first ten days of the 12th month of the Islâmic calendar, i.e. two months and ten days). So whosoever intends to perform Hajj therein by assuming Ihrâm), then he should not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during the Hajj. And whatever good you do, (be sure) Allâh knows it. And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness, etc.). So fear Me, O men of understanding!

198. There is no sin on you if you seek the Bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage by trading, etc.). Then when you leave 'Arafât, remember Allâh (by glorifying His Praises, i.e. prayers and invocations, etc.) at the Mash'ar-il-Harâm. And remember Him (by invoking Allâh for all good, etc.) as He has guided you, and verily, you were, before, of those who were astray.

199. Then depart from the place whence all the people depart and ask Allâh for His Forgiveness. Truly, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.

200. So when you have accomplished your Manasik [(i.e. Ihrâm, Tawâf of the Ka'bah and As-Safâ and Al-Marwah), stay at 'Arafât, Muzdalifah and Mina, Ramy of Jamarât, (stoning of the specified pillars in Mina) slaughtering of Hady (animal, etc.)]. Remember Allâh as you remember your forefathers or with a far more remembrance. But of mankind there are some who say: "Our Lord! Give us (Your Bounties) in this world!" and for such there will be no portion in the Hereafter.

201. And of them there are some who say: "Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire!"

202. For them there will be alloted a share for what they have earned. And Allâh is Swift at reckoning.

203. And remember Allâh during the appointed Days. But whosoever hastens to leave in two days, there is no sin on him and whosoever stays on, there is no sin on him, if his aim is to do good and obey Allâh (fear Him), and know that you will surely be gathered unto Him.

9. Time Period Between The Construction Of Masjid Al-Haram (In Makkah Al-Mukkaramah) And Masjid Al-Aqsa (In Jerusalem)

Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 55, Prophets:
Volume 4, Book 55, Number 636:
Narrated Abu Dhaar:

I said, "O Allah's Apostle! Which mosque was built first?" He replied, "Al-Masjid-ul-Haram." I asked, "Which (was built) next?" He replied, "Al-Masjid-ul-Aqs-a (i.e. Jerusalem)." I asked, "What was the period in between them?" He replied, "Forty (years)." He then added, "Wherever the time for the prayer comes upon you, perform the prayer, for all the earth is a place of worshipping for you."