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
Irsal (Arm Position in Prayer)
The Shia practice of letting the arms hang at the sides during prayer.
Ashura (The Tenth of Muharram)
The tenth day of Muharram, the commemoration of Imam Husayn's martyrdom.
Usul al-Fiqh (Principles of Jurisprudence)
Islamic legal theory that defines the methods for deriving legal rules from the sacred sources.
Mustahab (Recommended)
Actions that are recommended but not obligatory, and that give extra reward.
Salat al-Istikhara (Guidance Prayer)
A prayer where one asks Allah for guidance to make the right decision.
Ghusl (Ritual Full-Body Washing)
The complete ritual washing of the entire body, required in certain situations.