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Shrines of Prophet Zakariay, Hud, Saleh, Ibrahim,
Musa, etc.
(Click on the pictures below to see them enlarged)
   
The Grave of Prophet Ibrahim (1st pic), shrine of Prophet Hud
and Salih (2nd & 3rd pic), shrine of Prophet Zakariya (4th pic)
The Shrine of Prophet Musa
The tomb of Prophet Moses is a splendid example of early
Islamic architecture set in an awe-inspiring landscape. It is located at about
20km east of Jerusalem. About 2km beyond the sign indicating sea level, a narrow
road to the right of the main road leads to a grand two storey building topped
by a complex of domes. The maqam is considered holy because it houses the grave
of prophet Moses according to local tradition. Moses is recognized by Moslems as
one of the great prophets of Islam. The bituminous rocks around the shrine add
to its mystique and sanctity since they are flammable. The main body of the
present shrine, the mosque, the minaret, and some of the rooms, were built in AD
1269 during the reign of the Mamluk Sultan, Al Dhaher Baybars. Successive
additions of rooms for visitors and pilgrims brought the maqam to its present
shape and size in AD 1475. The tomb has been the site of an annual pilgrimage
festival or mawsim at least since the time of the great Muslim leader Salah Al
Din (Saladin). Nowadays, a Palestinian family from Jericho lives on the site and
looks after it; they are happy to show visitors around. They run a small shop
selling interesting and unusual gifts, such as pure olive-oil soap, honey and
locally-produced olive oil, the proceeds of which go towards maintaining the
site. Soft drinks and snacks are also available. The sanctuary is open daily
from 8am until sunset; no entrance fee is required, but donations towards its
upkeep.
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