To find the Qibla direction in your room, the easiest way is to use Qibla finder on Onlinecompass. net.

Method 1: Using Qibla Finder on onlinecompass .net Website:
• Visit a onlinecompass .net website and go to qibla boussole gratuit en ligne page.
• Allow the website to access your location.
• Follow the direction indicated by the website to find the Qibla.
Method 2: Using a Qibla Compass:
• Purchase a Qibla compass from an Islamic store or online.
• Hold the compass flat and wait for the needle to settle.
• The compass will indicate the direction of the Kaaba relative to your location. Follow the indicated direction to find the Qibla.
Method 3: Using Google Maps:
• Open Google Maps on your smartphone or computer.
• Enter "Kaaba, Mecca" in the search bar and find the Kaaba's location.
• Pin your current location on the map.
• Draw a straight line from your location to the Kaaba. This line indicates the direction of the Qibla.
Method 4: Using a Physical Map:
• Obtain a world map or a local map that includes both your location and Mecca.
• Identify your current location and draw a line towards Mecca.
• Use a protractor to determine the angle of this line relative to north, then use a regular compass to find this direction in your room.

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Scientific Approaches to Accurately Determine Qibla Direction
Several scientific studies provide insights and methodologies for determining the Qibla direction accurately.
One study discusses the use of modern technological tools to measure the Qibla direction at cemeteries, highlighting the need for public awareness and understanding of astronomical tools for precise determination (Jasmin et al., 2023).
The article discusses the methods used to determine the Qibla direction at cemeteries, emphasizing that traditional methods like observing the sun's setting position and stars are still in use. However, these methods are not precise due to a lack of public understanding. The researchers hope that by using both manual and modern astronomical tools, people will gain a better understanding of the Qibla direction, leading to more accurate determinations.

1. Traditional Methods and Their Limitations: The traditional methods mentioned, such as observing the sunset and stars, are prone to errors and are more of estimations rather than precise measurements. This indicates a significant gap in knowledge and technology adoption in some areas.
2. Integration of Modern Tools: The text advocates for the integration of modern astronomical tools to determine the Qibla direction accurately. This suggests that there is a movement towards embracing scientific advancements to resolve traditional issues.
3. Sociological and Historical Context: The study takes into account not only the scientific aspects but also the sociological and historical contexts. This comprehensive approach highlights the need to understand local customs and historical practices to implement new methods effectively.
4. Educational Implications: There is a clear need for public education on the importance and methods of accurately determining the Qibla direction. This could involve community outreach and educational programs to bridge the knowledge gap.
5. Future of Astronomical Science in Religious Practices: The text implies that as astronomical science progresses, it will help resolve debates surrounding the Qibla direction, leading to a more unified and accurate practice across different regions.
6. Field Research Findings: The field research conducted in Bone District provides direct evidence that traditional methods are still prevalent and there is a lack of modern technological application. This evidence supports the need for modernization.
7. Multi-Approach Analysis: The use of normative theological, sociological, historical, and modern technological approaches indicates a thorough investigation, ensuring that the findings and recommendations are well-rounded and consider multiple perspectives.
8. Public Understanding and Accuracy: The text repeatedly emphasizes the lack of public understanding, which is a critical barrier to accurate Qibla determination. This highlights the importance of educational initiatives as part of the solution.
   Another paper compares different methods such as spherical trigonometry, the Jean Meeus algorithm, and Google Qibla Finder, finding all three methods effective but emphasizing the need for verification in case of deviations (Sari et al., 2023).
   • Consistency of Methods: The three methods (Spherical Trigonometry, Jean Meeus, and Google Qibla Finder) provided consistent results across different locations. This consistency suggests that these methods are reliable for determining the Qibla direction. The small discrepancies between calculations and field measurements, which are within the 2°–7° tolerance, highlight the robustness of these methods.
   • Empirical Data from Field Research: The study's empirical data, collected from three hospital mosques, provides strong evidence for the reliability of the methods used. The consistent results across different locations reinforce the accuracy of these methods.
   • Deviation Tolerance: The study's findings that deviations of 2°–7° are within acceptable tolerance limits provide a practical benchmark for acceptable accuracy. This evidence supports the conclusion that minor discrepancies do not undermine the overall reliability of the Qibla determination methods.
   • Comprehensive Analysis: The use of multiple calculation methods and comparison with field measurements demonstrate a thorough and rigorous approach to determining Qibla direction. This comprehensive analysis enhances the credibility of the study's conclusions.

Research on the Stellarium application shows that modern IT-based applications can precisely determine the Qibla direction using celestial observations (2023). Another study verifies the accuracy of Qibla directions in mosques using various traditional and modern tools, illustrating significant deviations in some cases (Friatna & Mustaqim, 2023). Lastly, the integration of historical Islamic methods with modern technology in developing an autonomous Qibla finder robot demonstrates the relevance and accuracy of classical techniques in contemporary contexts (Sanjaya et al., 2023).

What are the traditional methods for finding the Qibla direction?
Several traditional methods for finding the Qibla direction have been documented in research and university journals. These methods often rely on natural phenomena and simple instruments.

1. Sun's Position and Shadow:
   o This method involves determining the Qibla direction based on the sun's position at specific times of the day. When the sun is directly overhead the Kaaba, any shadow cast by a vertical object will point directly towards the Qibla. This is often called the "Rashdul Qibla" method (Shabir, 2023).
2. Using Stars and Constellations:
   o Traditional methods also include using the positions of stars and constellations. For example, the star constellation of Ursa Major (Big Dipper) has been historically used to find north, which helps in aligning towards the Qibla direction (Jasmin et al., 2023).
3. Using a Compass:
   o The use of a magnetic compass is one of the simplest traditional methods. By determining the magnetic north and calculating the angle between north and the direction of Mecca, one can find the Qibla direction (Budiwati et al., 2022).
4. Mathematical Methods:
   o Early Islamic scholars like Abu al-Wafa and al-Biruni developed mathematical methods for determining the Qibla direction. These involve spherical trigonometry and geometric calculations based on the geographic coordinates of the location and Mecca (Sanjaya et al., 2023).
5. Natural Landmarks:
   o Historically, people also used prominent landmarks such as mountains and valleys, along with natural indicators like the wind direction or the flow of rivers, to determine the general direction towards Mecca (Sari et al., 2023).

You can know the Qibla direction by using the Qibla Finder at onlinecompass. net/qibla-finder. It's online, free, precise, and easy to use. Simply visit the website, allow location access, and it will accurately point you towards the Qibla. This tool is especially helpful for travelers and anyone needing a quick and reliable way to find the direction of prayer.

What is the accurate direction of Qibla?

Tono Saksono, Islamic Science Research Network at HAMKA University in the article “Geodetic analysis of disputed accurate qibla direction” published in Journal of Applied Geodesy explains:

The accurate direction of the Qibla, towards which Muslims face during prayer, has long been a topic of debate among Muslim communities worldwide, from developing to developed countries. This study aimed to analyze the geodetic azimuths of the Qibla calculated using three different Earth models. Our findings suggest that the ellipsoidal model of the Earth provides the most accurate method for determining the direction of the Kaaba from any location on the Earth's surface.
However, it's important to note that even with accurate geodetic calculations, a Muslim cannot physically face the Qibla correctly if they cannot see the Kaaba due to various obstacles or movements during prayer, which can significantly shift the Qibla direction from the actual position of the Kaaba. Therefore, the requirement of facing towards the Kaaba is more of a spiritual prerequisite than a physical necessity.

Understanding the Direction of Prayer in Islam

According to Sahih al-Bukhari, a collection of hadith compiled by Imam Muhammad al-Bukhari:
The Qibla refers to the direction of prayer in Islam, facing the Kaaba in Mecca. Initially, the Prophet Muhammad and his followers prayed facing Jerusalem (Bait-ul-Maqdis) for 16-17 months. However, the Prophet wished to face the Kaaba, and Allah revealed Quranic verses (2.144 and 2.149) instructing him to do so. The change in Qibla was a significant event in Islamic history, and the Prophet and his followers turned their faces towards the Kaaba during prayer. The Qibla has remained an essential aspect of Islamic prayer, symbolizing unity and spiritual connection with the holy city of Mecca.
Based on the text, here are the key points about the Qibla:

1. Initially, the Prophet Muhammad and his followers prayed facing Jerusalem (Bait-ul-Maqdis).
2. The Prophet wished to face the Kaaba in Mecca, and Allah revealed Quranic verses instructing him to do so.
3. The change in Qibla occurred during the Prophet's lifetime, and he prayed facing the Kaaba after the revelation.
4. The Qibla was changed from Jerusalem to the Kaaba, which has remained the direction of prayer in Islam since then.
5. The Qibla is an essential aspect of Islamic prayer, symbolizing unity and spiritual connection with the holy city of Mecca.

Determining the Qibla Direction using Cartography

When Muslims respond to the call to prayer, they must orient themselves towards the Kaaba, a sacred edifice in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. While the direction is straightforward for those in proximity to Mecca, Muslims in North America face a challenge in determining the correct direction. This direction is known as the Qibla.
The controversy surrounding the Qibla stems from the various methods used to determine the direction of Mecca.
Some Muslims employ a practical approach by using a flat map to locate their position, identify Mecca, and draw a straight line (rhumb line) between the two points. This line is then used to calculate the angle required to face Mecca from a cardinal direction (true north or due east).
However, determining the cardinal directions poses an additional challenge. While magnetic compasses can provide a general indication of north, they actually point towards the Magnetic North Pole, which is distinct from the geographic North Pole and is located in Canada. The magnetic north pole is also in constant motion.
To accurately determine true north, one must account for the magnetic declination, which is the difference between true north and magnetic north. This variation can be significant in northern regions. Fortunately, the US Government provides a resource to calculate magnetic declination for any location in the US.
Once true north is established, one can adjust their orientation by the required degrees to face Mecca. Many mosques have already determined the Qibla direction and marked it on a wall, serving as a convenient reference for worshipers.
The Evolution of the Qibla: Uncovering the Early Directions of Islamic Prayer

Daniel Gibson, a Canadian author studying the early history of Arabia and Islam says:

The Qibla, a fundamental aspect of Islamic prayer, refers to the direction a Muslim must face during their daily devotions. While most Muslims believe that the original Qibla was the Holy House in Jerusalem, also known as Bait ul Maqdis, the exact direction of the early Qibla is a matter of debate among historians and scholars.
According to Islamic sources, the Jerusalem Qibla was used from 610 CE until 623 CE, a period of approximately 13 years. However, the Qur'an does not explicitly mention Jerusalem as the first Qibla, and the practice of facing Jerusalem appears only in the biographies of Muhammad and some hadith collections. Moreover, there is disagreement among scholars about when this practice started and how long it lasted.
The change in Qibla occurred in 624 CE, when Muhammad received a revelation from God instructing him to turn his face towards Masjid al-Haram, the Forbidden Sanctuary in Mecca. This event took place during the noon prayer in the Quba mosque in Medina, where Muhammad and his companions were praying. According to traditional accounts, Muhammad immediately turned around to face Mecca, and those praying behind him followed his lead.
Despite the clarity of this account, the early Islamic literature is unclear about the exact direction of the original Qibla. Some hadith and historical accounts suggest that Syria was the initial Qibla, while others mention "bayt muqadis" (the Holy House) and al-Aqsa or the "far mosque." The term "qibla" later came to refer not only to the direction of prayer but also to the direction south, as seen in references to southern Lebanon as "qiblat-lubnan."
To better understand the early Qiblas, I embarked on a personal survey of Arabia's archeological history in 1979, traveling extensively throughout the Middle East and visiting numerous mosques and historical sites over the next 25 years. My research aimed to shed light on the original direction of the Qibla and its evolution over time.

Orienting the Believer: The Qibla's Role in Shaping Early Islamic Community

Dr. Ari M. Gordon - Director of Muslim-Jewish Relations in the study called “ The Qibla As Ritual, Metaphor, And Identity Marker In Early Islam “ explores the role of the qibla (direction of prayer) in early Islam, focusing on its function as a ritual, metaphor, and identity marker that distinguished Muslims from other religious communities, particularly Christians and Jews.
The dissertation consists of four interconnected projects that span from the emergence of Islam in Late Antiquity to the Early Middle Ages. It examines the qibla's presentation in the Qur'an, its usage as a term to express Islamic community, its role in scholarly discussions of abrogation (naskh), and the interpretation of misaligned mosques.
The study aims to demonstrate how the qibla served as a powerful symbol in constructing Islamic collective identity and marking boundaries with other religious groups. The author proposes three lenses for examining collective identity in premodern societies: identity as imagined, identity as a process, and identity as inexhaustible.
Overall, the dissertation provides a nuanced understanding of the qibla's significance in early Islam, moving beyond historical reconstruction and scientific calculation to explore its discursive and ritual processes that fostered a sense of group belonging.

Navigation is a fundamental skill that has been essential to human survival for centuries. Whether you're an adventurer exploring the great outdoors or a mariner navigating the vast seas, understanding the art of compass reading is a valuable skill that can be the difference between getting lost and finding your way. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of compass reading, teaching you how to read a compass like a pro. Let's begin by unraveling the basics.
What is a compass?
A compass is a valuable yet minimal navigation companion that has been used for centuries to determine direction. It consists of a small magnetic needle, often marked with the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west), that aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field. This alignment allows users to identify their heading accurately.
How does a compass work?
Compasses operate on the principles of magnetism. The Earth itself acts as a giant magnet, generating a magnetic field with distinct north and south poles. A compass needle is magnetized and freely pivots on a low-friction point. When the compass is held level, the needle aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field, pointing toward magnetic north. This simple but elegant mechanism provides a reliable means of finding direction even in the absence of GPS or other modern technologies.
What are the different parts of a compass?
To read a compass like a pro, it's crucial to understand its components and how they function together:

1. Baseplate: The baseplate is the flat, transparent part of the compass. It often contains a ruler or scales for measuring distances on a map.
2. Housing: The housing or capsule houses the magnetic needle and is often filled with liquid to dampen needle movement, providing more stable readings.
3. Magnetic Needle: This is the most critical part of the compass. It's a magnetized needle that aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field to point north.
4. Orienting Arrow: On the baseplate, you'll find an orienting arrow, which you use to align the compass with your intended direction.
5. Direction-of-Travel Arrow: This arrow, often located on the housing, points in the direction you want to travel.
6. Dial: The dial or bezel encircles the housing and is marked with degrees. It's used to read your bearing or the angle between your current heading and your destination.
   What are the benefits of using a compass?
   Using a compass offers numerous advantages, making it an invaluable tool for navigation:
7. Reliability: Unlike electronic devices that can run out of batteries or malfunction, a compass relies on the Earth's magnetic field, ensuring its reliability in any environment.
8. Accuracy: Compasses provide precise directional information, allowing you to stay on course with confidence.
9. Independence: With a compass, you are not reliant on external signals or technology, making it an excellent backup tool for navigation.
10. Learning and Connecting with Nature: Compass reading fosters a deeper connection with the natural world. It encourages you to pay attention to your surroundings, understand terrain, and appreciate the art of navigation.
11. Safety: A compass is an essential safety tool in outdoor activities. It can help you find your way if you get lost, reducing the risk of accidents and minimizing anxiety.
12. Versatility: Compasses can be used in a variety of environments, from dense forests to open waters, making them suitable for hikers, backpackers, sailors, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
    As you embark on your journey to master compass reading, you will gain a greater appreciation for this timeless tool and the art of navigation it represents. In the following sections, we will explore how to properly use a compass, read its measurements, and apply this knowledge in the real world. By the end of this guide, you will be well-equipped to read a compass like a pro, no matter where your adventures take you.
    II. How to Read a Compass
    A compass, with its simple yet profound mechanism, is a powerful tool for anyone looking to navigate with precision.Delve into the world of compass navigation, it's essential to grasp the nuances of compass navigation. In this section, we will explore the intricacies of compass reading, including the difference between magnetic north and true north, orienting a compass, taking a bearing, and adjusting for declination.
13. What is the difference between magnetic north and true north?
    Before you can effectively use a compass, it's crucial to understand the distinction between magnetic north and true north. True north, also known as geographic north, is the North Pole, the point where Earth's axis of rotation intersects the Earth's surface. Magnetic north, on the other hand, is the direction in which the compass needle points, influenced by the Earth's magnetic field. The key difference is that true north is a fixed point on the globe, while magnetic north can vary by location and change over time due to shifts in the Earth's magnetic field.
    The variance between magnetic north and true north is called magnetic declination. This discrepancy is significant when navigating over long distances, as it affects the accuracy of your bearing. To read a compass like a pro, you must account for this difference when determining your heading.
14. How to orient a compass
    Orienting a compass is the process of aligning the compass needle with the direction of travel or the intended heading. To do this, follow these steps:
    a. Hold the compass level: Ensure the compass is held flat and not tilted in any direction. This step is crucial to get an accurate reading.
    b. Turn the housing: Rotate the bezel or housing of the compass until the orienting arrow is aligned with the magnetic needle inside the compass. This step ensures that the compass is correctly oriented to the magnetic north.
    c. Keep the direction-of-travel arrow on target: Once the orienting arrow and magnetic needle are aligned, the direction-of-travel arrow should now point in your intended direction of travel.
    Properly positioning your compass is the foundation for accurate navigation. If you fail to orient it properly, any bearings or directions you take will be inaccurate.
15. How to take a bearing
    Taking a bearing is a method used to determine the angle between your current location and a specific point of interest. Here's how you can take a bearing with your compass:
    a. Orient your compass: As discussed earlier, ensure your compass is properly oriented with the orienting arrow aligned with the magnetic needle.
    b. Align the direction-of-travel arrow: Rotate the bezel or housing until the direction-of-travel arrow is pointing toward your target or the object you want to measure the bearing to.
    c. Read the bearing: The degree mark on the compass's bezel, which aligns with the direction-of-travel arrow, indicates the bearing. Note this value; it is the angle between your current position and the target.
    Bearings are often measured in degrees, with 360 degrees representing a full circle. To use this information effectively for navigation, you can convert the bearing to your intended route or follow a specific azimuth.
16. How to adjust for declination
    Magnetic declination, as mentioned earlier, is the difference between magnetic north and true north. It varies depending on your geographic location and changes over time. To navigate accurately, you need to adjust for declination.
    Here's how to adjust for declination using your compass:
    a. Determine the local declination: Consult a map or a reliable online source to find the current magnetic declination for your location. This information is essential for adjusting your compass readings.
    b. Adjust your compass: Most compasses have a built-in adjustment feature, allowing you to set the magnetic declination for your area. To do this, use a small screwdriver or a similar tool to rotate the adjustment screw on the compass's housing. Turn the screw until the degree mark matches the local magnetic declination for your location.
    c. Navigate with confidence: With your compass now adjusted for declination, your readings will be accurate in relation to true north. You can confidently follow your bearings and course without worrying about magnetic variation.
    Mastering the art of compass navigation is a rewarding endeavor. Reading a compass like a pro involves understanding the difference between magnetic and true north, correctly orienting your compass, taking accurate bearings, and adjusting for declination. With these skills in your toolkit, you can explore the world with confidence and precision, no matter where your adventures take you. In the following sections, we will delve into practical applications of compass reading, offering tips and techniques that will further enhance your navigation skills.

The history of the compass dates back more than 2,000 years, with its invention during the Han Dynasty in China between the 2nd century BC and 1st century AD. The first compasses were made of lodestone, a naturally magnetized mineral. These early compasses had a magnetic needle or card that could rotate freely and, when positioned horizontally, would align itself with the Earth's magnetic field, pointing to the Magnetic North-South direction. This remarkable device revolutionized navigation and played a pivotal role in shaping the course of human history.

The Birth of the Compass in Ancient China
The inception of the compass can be traced to ancient China, where it emerged as a crucial tool for early explorers and sailors. Early navigation tools and practices predate the compass's evolution in history, yet they laid the foundation for our enduring quest for precision and direction. Techniques such as celestial navigation using stars, sun, and landmarks, along with primitive compass-like devices, were the early pioneers of seafaring and exploration. While these methods were valuable, the compass, with its origin in China during the Han Dynasty in the 2nd century BC, represented a groundbreaking leap in navigational technology. This transition marked a turning point in human ingenuity, propelling us into an era of more reliable and efficient navigation, and ultimately, it shaped the course of our journey through time. These pioneering compasses were fashioned from lodestone, a naturally occurring magnetic mineral. The magnetic properties of lodestone were harnessed to create a device that could reliably indicate direction, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. This remarkable device revolutionized navigation and played a pivotal role in shaping the course of human history.
The Magnetic Spoon: An Innovative Design
The Chinese navigational compasses that emerged during the Song Dynasty had a unique design, with the lodestone fashioned into a shape that can best be described as a spoon. This design innovation allowed for more accurate navigation, as it minimized the friction between the magnetic needle and its housing. With this improved compass in hand, European mariners were better equipped to sail vast expanses of open seas, marking the beginning of the Age of Discovery between the 15th and 18th centuries.
Understanding Magnetic Variation
During the 15th century, Navigators had to adjust for the magnetic deviation in their compasses, but rather to some nearby point. In Europe, compass needles pointed slightly east of true north. This phenomenon, known as magnetic variation, posed challenges for navigation, especially during long sea voyages.
The British Contribution
To address the issue of magnetic variation, British navigators adopted conventional meridional compasses. These compasses were designed so that the north on the compass dial aligned with the "needle north" when the ship passed a certain point in Cornwall, England. This ingenious solution helped mariners navigate more accurately and contributed to the success of British exploration and trade routes.
Technical Advancements and Expansion
Over the centuries, various technical improvements were made to the magnetic compass, many of which were pioneered by the British, who relied heavily on navigational devices due to their vast empire and naval power. By the 13th century, the compass needle had been mounted upon a pin standing on the bottom of the compass bowl. Initially, only north and south were marked on the bowl, but then the other 30 principal points of direction were filled in, further enhancing navigational precision.
The Triumph of Liquid Compasses
While Veteran navigational instruments, they were eventually made obsolete by the end of the 19th century with the advent of liquid compasses. Liquid compasses, filled with a special damping fluid, provided even greater stability and accuracy. These advancements in compass technology revolutionized navigation and contributed to the further exploration and mapping of the world's oceans.
Continued Advancements in Compass Technology
As the world continued to evolve, so did compass technology. In the 19th century, innovations such as the gimbal-mounted compass were introduced, providing stability even in rough seas. This innovation ensured that the compass remained level regardless of the ship's movements, a crucial development for maritime navigation.
The Influence of Compass on Exploration and Trade
The compass's impact on exploration and trade cannot be overstated. During the Age of Discovery, European explorers armed with compasses ventured into uncharted waters, seeking new trade routes and territories. Christopher Columbus, for example, relied on the compass during his famous voyage to the Americas in 1492. The compass provided a reliable reference point in the vast expanse of the ocean, allowing explorers to maintain their course and return safely to their home ports.
Navigating the British Empire
The British Empire, at its zenith in the 19th century, owed much of its success to advancements in navigational technology, particularly the compass. British naval power was unparalleled, and their mastery of navigation using compasses allowed them to control vast colonial territories and establish trade networks across the globe. The compass was not just a tool for exploration but a symbol of British maritime prowess.
Compass in Modern Times
Today, the compass has evolved further with the integration of modern technology. While traditional magnetic compasses are still widely used, they are often complemented by electronic navigation systems, including GPS. These systems provide even greater accuracy and functionality, ensuring that ships, aircraft, and even hikers can navigate with precision.
The compass has also found its place in various industries beyond navigation. It is used in geology, surveying, and engineering for orientation and direction measurement. In addition to its practical applications, the compass remains a symbol of adventure and exploration, serving as a reminder of the countless journeys and discoveries made possible by this simple yet ingenious device.
In Conclusion
The history of the compass is a story of human innovation and the pursuit of knowledge. From its origins in ancient China to its pivotal role in the Age of Discovery and its continued importance in modern navigation, the compass has left an indelible mark on our world. It has not only facilitated exploration and trade but also symbolized the enduring human spirit of curiosity and adventure. As we look to the future, the compass will undoubtedly continue to guide us on our journeys, both literal and metaphorical, as we navigate the uncharted territories of the world and beyond.