Daily Current Affairs : 27-October-2023
Long before Jerusalem became a global hotspot of political tension between Israel and Palestine, India had firmly established its presence within the ancient city’s walls in the 12th century. The Indian Hospice, a brown two-story stone building, stands as a testament to this enduring connection.
The Historic Hospice: An Oasis of Indian Culture
- Within the ancient city’s walls stands the Indian Hospice, proudly displaying a plaque that highlights its establishment in the 12th century, supported by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.
- The hospice is located on the street named ‘Zawiyat El-Hunud’, translating to “the Indian corner,” emphasizing its deep-rooted Indian heritage.
- In 2021, the External Affairs Minister of India unveiled a new plaque, underscoring the 800-year-old bond between India and Jerusalem.
The Origin of the Connection: Baba Farid’s Spiritual Journey
- Baba Farid, a revered Sufi saint from Punjab, embarked on a spiritual odyssey in the 12th century. During his travels, he spent 40 days in deep meditation at the site of the present-day Indian Hospice.
- Indian Muslims traveling to Mecca began visiting Jerusalem to pray at this sacred spot, eventually transforming it into a shrine and a hospice for Indian travelers.
Baba Farid: The Mystic Poet and Sufi Saint
- Born in 1173 CE in the village of Kothewal near Multan, Baba Farid was an influential Sufi saint who followed the Chishti order.
- His verses, written in Punjabi, found a place in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs.
- During his travels, he prayed at the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem and composed verses, leaving a lasting imprint on the city.
The Evolution of the Hospice: From Lodge to Sanctuary
- Baba Farid’s modest lodge within Old Jerusalem evolved into a hospice named Zawiya Al-Hindiya, meaning “the Lodge of Hind,” serving as a sanctuary for Indian travelers.
- In 1921, the Grand Mufti highlighted the deteriorating condition of the ‘Indian Lodge.’ Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari from Uttar Pradesh took on the task of its renovation, transforming it into a safe haven for travelers and pilgrims from British India.
Independent India’s Recognition and Legacy
- After India gained independence, Nazir Ansari sought official recognition for the lodge from the Indian embassy in Egypt, solidifying its Indian identity.
- The hospice now hosts the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the Jerusalem Health Centre, becoming a symbol of international cooperation.
- Today, Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari administers the property and was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the highest accolade conferred by the Government of India on overseas Indians.
Important Points:
- Establishment of Indian Hospice in 12th Century Jerusalem:
- Indian presence in the ancient city, marked by a brown two-story stone building.
- Plaque highlighting its establishment in the 12th century, supported by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.
- Located on ‘Zawiyat El-Hunud’ street, meaning “the Indian corner,” emphasizing its Indian heritage.
- Unveiling of a new plaque in 2021, emphasizing the 800-year-old bond between India and Jerusalem.
- Spiritual Origins:
- Baba Farid, a Sufi saint from Punjab, spent 40 days in deep meditation at the site.
- Indian Muslims visiting Mecca started praying at this spot, leading to its transformation into a shrine and hospice for Indian travelers.
- Baba Farid: The Sufi Saint and Poet:
- Born in 1173 CE in Punjab, Baba Farid followed the Chishti order.
- His Punjabi verses are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs.
- Prayed at the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem and composed verses, leaving a lasting impact on the city.
- Evolution of the Hospice:
- Baba Farid’s lodge transformed into Zawiya Al-Hindiya, serving as a sanctuary for Indian travelers.
- Renovation in 1921 by Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari, providing refuge for travelers and soldiers during World War II.
- Recognition and Legacy:
- After India gained independence, Nazir Ansari sought official recognition for the lodge, solidifying its Indian identity.
- Now hosts the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the Jerusalem Health Centre.
- Administered by Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari, honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the highest award for overseas Indians.
- Symbol of Enduring Connection:
- The Indian Hospice stands as a symbol of India’s cultural heritage and spiritual ties with Jerusalem, transcending political boundaries.
- Reflects the shared spiritual legacy between ancient lands, emphasizing the enduring bonds between India and Jerusalem.
Why In News
Long before the city of Jerusalem became one of the world’s most contested places (Israel and Palestine), India established its presence there in the 12th century. This historical connection showcases India’s rich cultural influence in the region, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s diverse heritage.
MCQs about Indian Hospice in 12th Century Jerusalem
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What is the significance of ‘Zawiyat El-Hunud’?
A) A street leading to the Indian Hospice in Jerusalem.
B) A historic monument in Punjab.
C) A famous marketplace in Jerusalem.
D) A traditional dance form in India.
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Who was Baba Farid and how did he contribute to the Indian Hospice’s history?
A) A poet from Jerusalem who composed verses for the hospice.
B) A Sufi saint from Punjab whose meditation spot became the Indian Hospice.
C) An architect who designed the Indian Hospice.
D) A historian who documented the Indian Hospice’s evolution.
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What is the current role of the Indian Hospice in Jerusalem?
A) It functions as a popular tourist attraction.
B) It serves as a sanctuary for Indian travelers and hosts international organizations.
C) It is a religious shrine visited by pilgrims from around the world.
D) It has been converted into a museum showcasing Indian heritage.
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Why is the Indian Hospice considered a symbol of enduring cultural ties?
A) It is the oldest building in Jerusalem.
B) It has religious significance for multiple faiths.
C) It was renovated by international volunteers.
D) It is the only Indian structure in Jerusalem.
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