Importance of Mosques in Islam

TEHRAN (IQNA) – Mosques have a special position in Islam. Mosques not only are places of worship but also have various religious, social and political functions.

The word mosque has been mentioned in the Quran 28 times, 22 times in the singular form and 6 times in the plural.

In these verses, there are references to the significance of mosques in Islam, some religious rules about mosques, the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Al-Aqsa Mosque in al-Quds and the mosque of Al-Kahf (the People of Cave).

Mosques are called houses of God, hence, what takes place in mosque should be in line with remembrance of God: “Mosques belong to Allah, so do not call to anyone else, other than Allah.” (Surah Al-Jinn, Verse 18)

Based on verses of the Quran and Hadiths, Kaaba in Mecca is the first place of worshipping the one God and the center for monotheism: “The first house (of worship) that God assigned to men was in Bakka (another name of Mecca). It is a blessed one and a guide for all people.” (Surah Al-Imran, Verse 96)

Given the importance and virtues of mosques, God has attributed mosques to Himself. It is symbolic and shows the significance that God attaches to these places of worship. Thus, what is done is mosques is in line with what God wants and within the interests of Muslims.

In the book Kashf al-Asrar (The Unveiling of Secrets), the author Abulfazl Rashideddin Meybodi says that mosuqes are God’s houses on the earth. Mosques shine for those in heaven just like stars shine for those on the earth.

So mosques are sacred places for faith, Taqwa (God-fearing), worshipping God, and saying prayers. However, oppressors consider mosques to pose a threat to them because these places of worship have always been bases for unity and accord and fighting oppression and corruption.

God describes those who prevent people from going to mosques or destroy mosques as the most unjust people: “Who is more unjust than those who strive to destroy the mosques and prevent others from commemorating the Name of God therein who could not enter the mosques except with fear. They, (the unjust ones), will be disgraced in this life and will receive great torment in the life hereafter.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 114)