History: Jerusalem Baitul Maqdas" (also known as "Bayt al-Muqaddas

The term "Baitul Maqdas" (also known as "Bayt al-Muqaddas" or "Al-Aqsa Mosque") refers to the Islamic holy site located in the Old City of Jerusalem, which holds significant religious and historical importance in Islam. The history of Baitul Maqdas is intertwined with the history of Jerusalem and the broader historical context of the region. Here is an overview of its history:

Ancient History: Jerusalem itself has a long history dating back to ancient times. It was originally a Canaanite city and later became an important city in the Kingdom of Israel and the capital of the Kingdom of Judah.

Islamic Tradition: In Islamic tradition, Baitul Maqdas is considered the third holiest site in Islam, after the Kaaba in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. According to Islamic belief, it is the place where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to the heavens during the Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj), as described in the Quran.

Islamic Conquest: In the 7th century, during the time of the Rashidun Caliphs, Muslim forces led by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab captured Jerusalem in 638 CE. Under Islamic rule, the city's significance as a religious and cultural center grew.

Umayyad Caliphate: The Umayyad Caliphate, in the early 8th century, built the Dome of the Rock, one of the most iconic structures in Baitul Maqdas. It is not a mosque but a shrine and is believed to be the spot from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended to the heavens.

Abbasid Caliphate: In the 9th century, the Al-Aqsa Mosque was built near the Dome of the Rock. It is considered the third holiest mosque in Islam. Both the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque have been renovated and reconstructed over the centuries.

Crusader Period: During the Crusader era, the city of Jerusalem, including Baitul Maqdas, was captured by Christian forces in 1099. It remained under Crusader control until it was recaptured by Saladin, the Muslim leader, in 1187.

Ottoman Period: The Ottoman Empire ruled over Jerusalem, and Baitul Maqdas for several centuries. During this time, various Islamic structures and complexes were expanded and maintained.

British Mandate and Modern Era: In 1917, the British Empire captured Jerusalem from the Ottoman Empire. After World War II, the United Nations approved a plan to partition Palestine, leading to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. This event had a significant impact on the status of Jerusalem, leading to political and religious tensions.

Modern Conflicts: Jerusalem and Baitul Maqdas have been at the center of numerous conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians, with both parties having deep historical and religious connections to the city. The status of Jerusalem remains a contentious issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Baitul Maqdas remains a site of great religious and political significance, and its history reflects the complexities of the Middle East region's long and tumultuous history. It is a symbol of faith, identity, and contested territory, which continues to be a subject of international attention and debate.