Our Famous Murals
Omar at the Temple Site
Omar was the second Caliph after the death of Mahomet (634-644). He did more in ten years to obtain territory and win religious converts than any other Caliph before or after.
The crescent and star of Islam could not have had this strong hand at a better time as ir was a period when other religious faiths rigorously sought converts.
With the aid of his warrior Khalid, it is said that thirty-six thousand (36,000) cities and fortified places were conquered. In the process, four thousand Temples and Holy places of other religions were destroyed.
In the painting we see Omar, with his usual petulance with his own hands beginning to remove the rubbish from the site of King Solomon's Temple. On this spot he laid the foundation of the Mosque that still occupies the sacred spot and bears his name. The actual completion of this Temple was accomplished by a later Caliph.
As we shall see in another mural in this story, the seeds of jealousy were being planted between Omar and his servant Khalid.
Of historical note, it is sad that so many priceless treasures were destroyed in this attempt at world conquest. Khalid in his zeal is credited with destroying the great libraries at Alexandria.
Also note Omar at one time hated Mahomet. Even attempting assassination only to be won over by Mahomet's mystical appeal.
Need more information?
Please contact us by phone at 207-782-6831 or by e-mail at office at korashriners.org. We would be happy to either provide you with the information you need or point you to where you need to go.
