The connection between Mahdism and al-Quds Day
By Ḥujjat al-Islam Muhammad-Riḍa Naṣūri
The land of Palestine holds immense sacred significance for followers of the major divine religions. Due to the city of Jerusalem and its historical and religious sites, this region possesses a unique sanctity. It served as the first Qiblah (direction of prayer) for Muslims and remains the holiest city for Judaism and Christianity. Throughout history, it has endured great suffering and hardship. The people of Palestine have faced numerous conflicts and massacres, with various forces playing a role in violating their rights. The bloody Crusades, largely driven by racism and fundamentalism against Muslims, cannot be ignored.
Muslims have historically maintained a defensible and just stance regarding this land, considering Jerusalem a sacred place. When Imam Khomeini declared the last Friday of Ramaḍān as Quds Day, he called upon Muslims worldwide to recognize its importance. According to Islamic belief, during the reappearance of Imam Mahdi, Jerusalem will be one of his key centers of operation.
From an Islamic perspective, al-Aqṣā Mosque holds immense importance. It was the birthplace, home, and mission ground of many prophets. It was also the site of Prophet Muhammad’s ascension, particularly during Ramaḍān. The sanctity of this place is deeply rooted in Islamic literature.
For the first 13 years of his Prophethood in Mecca and for approximately 17 months after migrating to Medina, the Prophet and his companions prayed facing al-Aqṣā. When the command to change the Qiblah was revealed on the 15th of Rajab month, 2 A.H., the Prophet was in the middle of his noon prayer at Bani Sālim Mosque. At that moment, Angel Gabriel descended, took the Prophet’s arms, and turned him toward the Kaaba. This underscores the significance of Al-Aqsa for Muslims.
The Quran highlights the sanctity of this land in chapter al-Isrā:
"Glory be to Him who took His servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed." (The Quran, 17:1)
The Prophet further emphasized:
"Do not set out on a journey except to three mosques: The Sacred Mosque (in Mecca), my Mosque (in Medina), and Al-Aqṣā Mosque."
Imam Ḥasan al-‘Askari stated:
"A prayer in Al-Aqṣā Mosque is equivalent to a thousand prayers in other mosques."
The Role of Jerusalem in the Era of Imam Mahdi
Jerusalem plays a crucial role in the events surrounding the reappearance of Imam Mahdi. Islamic narrations state that when he appears, he will move from Mecca to Medina and then to Kūfah. His next destination will be Jerusalem, where Prophet Jesus will descend and pray behind him.
This narration is reinforced even in Sunni sources. Ibn Ḥajar al-‘Aṣqalāni, a major commentator on Ṣaḥih al-Bukhāri, has recorded multiple authentic narrations stating that Imam Mahdi will be from this Ummah (nation). and that Prophet Jesus (AS) will pray behind him.
Another narration from the Prophet states:
"From among my household is the one behind whom Jesus, the son of Mary, will pray."
In Shia sources, Imam al-Bāqir said:
"The Qāim (Imam Mahdi) will instill fear in the hearts of his enemies and will revive the land. Jesus, son of Mary, will descend and pray behind him."
Several narrations confirm that before the Day of Judgment, Prophet Jesus (AS) will return to Earth, and all people of faith will recognize him. He will pray behind Imam Mahdi, a widely accepted belief across Islamic traditions. One of the reasons for Jesus' ascension and prolonged life is his role during Imam Mahdi’s era. Many Christians will embrace Islam through Jesus and pledge allegiance to Imam Mahdi.
Quds Day serves as a reminder for Muslims to focus on this sacred land. Numerous narrations highlight Jesus’ allegiance to Imam Mahdi, his prayer behind him, and his role in the global spread of Islam. Prophet Jesus will be among the most influential figures in Imam Mahdi’s movement, assisting in the global Islamic revolution.
The Battle for Jerusalem and the Confrontation with Sufyāni and Dajjāl
Another key aspect is that Jerusalem will be a site of confrontation between Imam Mahdi and opposition forces. Many narrations state that Imam Mahdi will engage in dialogue with Jewish and Christian scholars in Jerusalem, leading many to pledge allegiance to him. This event will draw global attention to his leadership.
Additionally, narrations suggest that Jerusalem will be the battlefield for a great war between Imam Mahdi and the forces of Sufyāni and Dajjāl. One of Sufyāni’s major battles will be the conquest of Palestine, where he will wage war against Imam Mahdi with support from various factions. Ultimately, Sufyāni will be defeated, leading to Imam Mahdi’s victory, the liberation of Palestine, and his establishment in Jerusalem.
The region of Shām (Greater ancient Syria), particularly Jerusalem, will be a significant center of events during Imam Mahdi's reappearance. Some narrations even describe Jerusalem as his second capital, with Kufah as his primary base and Jerusalem as his military command center. Under Imam Mahdi’s leadership, Jerusalem will serve as headquarters for his commanders, with Prophet Jesus playing a crucial role in governance.
Zionist Ideology and the Struggle for Jerusalem
Zionist movements have attempted to monopolize the issue of Jerusalem, distorting religious texts to claim exclusive rights over the land. According to their eschatology, Jews must return to Palestine as part of their belief in the "Promised Land," aiming to establish a Jewish state from the Nile to the Euphrates in preparation for their Messiah’s arrival.
Zionists also advocate for the destruction of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock to rebuild what they claim to be Solomon’s Temple. They argue that Solomon’s Temple once stood there and that his grave lies beneath al-Aqṣā, justifying their plans for demolition.
Additionally, Zionists emphasize rituals of sacrifice and purification. They believe a newly built temple must be ritually cleansed, and they prepare a red heifer for sacrifice. They also believe that the final battle of Armageddon must take place before their Messiah arrives.
Zionist eschatology outlines five key signs for their Messiah’s return:
- The return of Jews to Jerusalem.
- The destruction of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.
- The reconstruction of Solomon’s Temple.
- The sacrifice of the red heifer.
- The great war of Armageddon against Dajjāl.
Zionists actively work to prepare for this so-called final battle, particularly in the region of Armageddon, located between Jordan and Palestine. They seek to claim this land in anticipation of their Messiah.
Muslims must remain vigilant. Imam Khomeini’s designation of the last Friday of Ramadan as Quds Day serves as a reminder for Muslims to stay focused on this issue. Palestine, the birthplace and resting place of many prophets, is sacred to all Abrahamic faiths. Cities like Hebron, where Prophet Abraham and his family are buried, and Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, emphasize its significance.
Ultimately, Jerusalem will be central to Imam Mahdi’s reappearance and Prophet Jesus’ return. This holy land, God willing, will be purified from oppression. Extremist Zionist groups seek to seize control of this land for their ideological purposes, and Muslims must remain alert to ensure that Jerusalem is restored to its rightful status.
Quds Day plays a critical role in uniting the Islamic world, fostering solidarity, and preparing for the reappearance of Imam Mahdi. One of the key conditions for his return is the unity and cohesion of the Muslim Ummah.
