“Why Mary?” I can almost hear the question form on your lips as we stand before this beautiful building. This is the Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid in Abu Dhabi. It is also known as the Mary Mother of Jesus Mosque.
The Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid stands as a testament to religious harmony. It embodies mutual respect between Islam and Christianity. The mosque was originally built in 1989. It was initially named the Mohammed Bin Zayed Mosque. This was in honor of Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He was the Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
However on June 14 2017 Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan made a significant decision. He renamed the mosque to Mary Mother of Jesus Mosque. In Arabic this is Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid. This change was an initiative. It exemplified the values of coexistence among religions in the UAE. It also honored Mary Mother of Jesus. She is a respected figure in Islam.
Mary is indeed highly regarded in Islam. She is mentioned more times in the Quran than in the New Testament. She is honored as the mother of Prophet Jesus. In Arabic Jesus is known as Eisa. This highlights her esteemed status in Islamic tradition.
Notice the strategic location of the Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid. It is near a Christian community with several church complexes. Among them are St Joseph’s Cathedral Church of St Anthony and St Andrew’s Church. This proximity underscores the message of unity. It promotes brotherhood. It also emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity. It encourages building bridges between different communities.
The architecture of the Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid is captivating. It blends traditional Islamic art with modern aesthetics. This creates a serene space. It is inviting for prayer and contemplation. The mosque has four minarets. They reach towards the sky. They are a testament to faith.
The renaming of the Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid reflects the UAE’s commitment. It shows their dedication to fostering a more inclusive world. It is a beacon of hope. It is a testament to the power of understanding. It is a symbol of respect between faiths. The Mariam Umm Eisa Masjid sends a powerful message of unity to the world. It emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity. It is a place that welcomes all. It promotes harmony.