- By Maheen Khan
THE HERITAGE OF PALESTINE
AL-AQSA AND BEYOND
By Maheen Khan
سُبْحَـٰنَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أَسْرَىٰ بِعَبْدِهِۦ لَيْلًۭا مِّنَ ٱلْمَسْجِدِ ٱلْحَرَامِ إِلَى ٱلْمَسْجِدِ ٱلْأَقْصَا ٱلَّذِى بَـٰرَكْنَا حَوْلَهُۥ لِنُرِيَهُۥ مِنْ ءَايَـٰتِنَآ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلْبَصِيرُ
Exalted is He who took His servant [Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)] by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing (Surah Bani-Israel 1).
Masjid Al-Aqsa serves as a symbol of togetherness, faith, and spiritual connection for all Abrahamic religions, rather than a physical edifice. Its historical significance, affiliation with the ‘Prophet’s Night Journey’ (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj), and Quranic references all add to its renowned standing as one of Islam’s holiest places. Before the Kaaba in Makkah was designated as the permanent Qibla, Muslims faced the Masjid Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem for prayers.
For Christians, Al-Aqsa is part of the larger compound known as the Temple Mount, where Jesus is believed to have preached and where key biblical events occurred. This Temple Mount is the holiest site in Judaism and also considered to be the location of the First and Second Temples.
Thobes are long, loose-fitting dresses often adorned with intricate embroidery, a distinctive feature of Palestinian attire. Each region in Palestine has its unique embroidery patterns and colors, which can indicate the wearer’s village, social status, and marital status.
Traditionally made from natural fibers like linen and cotton. Modern thobes may also incorporate silk and wool. The color palette and embroidery patterns can vary significantly. For example, Gaza’s thobes often feature darker colors and geometric designs, while those from Ramallah might use brighter colors and floral patterns.
Image From AL Monitor
Known for their vibrant and elaborate designs, often featuring floral motifs and bright colors.
Characterized by cross-stitch embroidery. Typically in red and black, creating intricate and densely packed designs.
Thobes from Hebron are known for their rich, colorful embroidery. While Bedouin dresses from Beersheba often feature simpler designs with extensive use of metallic thread and sequins.
