On 31 May 2020, one of the holiest sites in Israel reopened after weeks of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The site, known as the Temple Mount to Jews and as the Noble Sanctuary to Muslims, is the holiest site in the world to Jews and the third holiest to Muslims. The resumption of prayers marked the holy fasting month of Ramadan and Eid ul-Fitr holiday.
Muslims believe the site is where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven and Jews revere it as the site of the Jewish temples of antiquity.
“After they opened the mosque, I feel like I can breathe again. Thanks be to God,” said Jerusalem resident Umm Hisham through a face mask, with her eyes tearing up, after entering the compound for dawn prayers with hundreds of other Muslims.
‘…Thanks be to God…’
Muslims chanted “God is the greatest” as they packed into the compound on Sunday for dawn prayers, some got on their knees and kissed the ground as they entered. Around 700 worshippers were present for dawn prayers.
‘…God is the greatest…’
Worshippers must wear face masks and bring personal prayer rugs should they wish to pray inside the shrines or on the compound’s outdoor grounds.