Qibla (Prayer Direction)
The direction toward the Kaaba in Mecca, which Muslims face during prayer.
Qibla (Arabic: قبلة) is the direction that Muslims face during prayer. The Qibla points toward the Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram (The Sacred Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
In the early years of Islam, the qibla was directed toward Jerusalem (Bayt al-Maqdis). Approximately 16-17 months after the hijra, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received a revelation that changed the qibla to the Kaaba in Mecca. This event is mentioned in the Quran: "We have seen you turning your face toward the heaven. Now We will turn you toward a qibla that will please you. Turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque" (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:144).
The precise qibla direction varies depending on which city you are in. Today, you can easily find your qibla direction using compass apps and online tools.
It is important to try to find the correct qibla direction, but if one is unsure and has no means of verification, the prayer is accepted as long as one has made their best effort.
Related terms
Najaf (Imam Ali's City)
The sacred city in Iraq housing Imam Ali's tomb and the Shia scholarly center.
Masjid al-Haram (The Sacred Mosque)
The holiest mosque in Islam, located in Mecca, which surrounds the Kaaba.
Ramadan (The Month of Fasting)
The holy month of fasting, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
Maghrib (Sunset Prayer)
The fourth daily prayer, performed just after sunset.
Du'a Tawassul (Supplication of Intercession)
A supplication where one asks Allah through the intercession of the Prophet and Ahl al-Bayt.
Salat al-Layl (Night Prayer)
The voluntary night prayer consisting of 11 rak'ah, highly recommended in Shia Islam.