Why Jerusalem Is Sacred to Christians and Muslims

For Christians

• Jesus's Life & Ministry: Bethlehem (near Jerusalem) is his birthplace; Jerusalem is where he was crucified, buried, and resurrected.
• Holy Sites: Church of the Holy Sepulchre (traditional site of crucifixion/tomb), Via Dolorosa, Mount of Olives.
• Early Church: Jerusalem was the birthplace of the Christian community (Acts of the Apostles).

For Muslims

• First Qibla: Early Muslims prayed toward Jerusalem (Al-Aqsa) before the direction was changed to Mecca.
• Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj): Prophet Muhammad's miraculous journey from Mecca to Al-Aqsa and ascent to heaven began here.
• Third Holiest Site: Al-Aqsa Mosque / Haram al-Sharif is revered as Islam's third holiest site after Mecca and Medina.