The Dome of the Spirits (قبة الارواح) or Dome of the Tablets (قبة الألواح) is a small dome resting on a hexagonal base. Its other name, Dome of Tablets, comes from the Tablets of Stone, kept in the Ark of the Covenant. The Dome of the Spirits is located north-west of the Dome of the Rock (Kubbat al-Sakhra) and opposite of the Bab al-Rahmah (Eastern Gate) in al-Aqsa enclave. It is located close to the Dome of al-Khidr.
Several theories exist concerning the name of this building; it could be associated with the proximity of the cave of the spirits or according to a legend, the souls of the dead will be gathered there for prayers.
It was probably built during Umayyad period because Ibn al-Faqih al-Hamadani circa 9-10 century CE (3-4Hj.) in his Mukhtasar Kitab al-Buldan mentioned that there was a dome in al-Aqsa enclave called Kubbat Jibril (Dome of Gabriel). Back then it was also called Kubbat al-Ruh and Kubbat al-Arvah (Dome of the Spirits). It was probably rebuilt during the 16th century CE (10th century Hj.) during the Ottoman period.
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Outer Structure
Unlike some other domes inside the Haram as-Sharif Complex, the Dome of the Spirits is open-sided, consisting of eight marble columns on which to base eight pointed contracts, above which a large dome, and at the bases of the columns one stone barrier, and ends in the shape of a niche in the direction of Qibla.
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Herodian Paving
According to Ritmeyer the paving beneath the Islamic structure belongs to that of Herodian masonry. It dates back to the Second Temple period, and was probably part of the inner court of the Herodian Temple Mount. The stone on which the Dome is built measures 12 feet (3.7 meters) by 11.5 feet (3.5 meters). According to Warren’s survey maps, it is situated approximately 10 feet (3 meters) above the natural bedrock. It was part of the pavement that was laid north of the buildings that surrounded the Temple. Ritmeyer notes has been erroneously claimed to have been the location of the Holy of Holies by Prof. A. Kaufman.
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The Madain Project is an online archive of Abrahamic History and Archaeology.
Abrahamic History & Archaeology is the study of history and archaeology with respect to the three Abrahamic Faiths without considering the religious and theological aspects. The goal of Abrahamic History is to understand how and why the religious doctrines and behaviours have evlovled and changed over time. Searching for patterns in the evolution of significant cultural events such as the development of farming, the emergence of cities, or the collapse of major civilizations for clues of why and how these have influenced the three major Abrahamic religions.
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