Qibla - Definition and Overview

Qibla is an Arabic word referring to the direction that should be faced when a Muslim prays. Originally, this direction was toward the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. In 624 AD, the Ka'ba in Mecca became the direction for prayers.

The qibla has importance to more than just the salat, and plays an important part in everyday ceremonies. The head of an animal that is slaughtered is aligned with the qibla. People are buried with their face in the direction of the qibla.

At least one special case exists: when inside the Ka'ba itself, Muslims face towards its outer walls during prayer.

External References

• Al-Quds About.com (http://islam.about.com/library/weekly/aa071200a.htm)
• Second Year of the Hijra on al-islam.org (http://al-islam.org/restatement/21.htm)

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