Mecca

Where in the Qur'an does Muhammad say a believer should pray towards Mecca and make a religious trip to Mecca?

Unfortunately, my copy of the Qur'an (which I have used since 1977) has where the editor or translator has added text to the Qur'an.  Fortunately, they enclose them (as I tend to do - maybe that is where I picked up this habit) of using ( and ).

superme wrote: StephenC wrote: Where in the Qur'an does Muhammad say a believer should pray towards Mecca and make a religious trip to Mecca? Sorry Steve I just put the verses in reply instead of my own word whenever it is appropriate. Lo! the first Sanctuary appointed for mankind was that at Becca, a blessed place, a guidance to the peoples (3:96) Wherein are plain memorials (of Allah's guidance); the place where Abraham stood up to pray; and whosoever entereth it is safe. And pilgrimage to the House is a duty unto Allah for mankind, for him who can find a way thither. As for him who disbelieveth, lo! Allah is Independent of (all) creatures. (3:97) We have seen the turning of thy face to heaven. And now verily We shall make thee turn (in prayer) toward a qiblah which is dear to thee. So turn thy face toward the Inviolable Place of Worship, and ye (O Muslims), wheresoever ye may be, turn your faces (when ye pray) toward it. Lo! Those who have received the Scripture know that (this revelation) is the Truth from their Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what they do. (2:144)

Thank you for the verses.  Why are some words in paraphrethis "(" ")"?

It says that one is to pray "toward a qiblah which is dear to thee."

The version on IslamiCity.com says:

2:144 We have seen thee [O Prophet] often turn thy face towards heaven [for guidance]: and now We shall indeed make thee turn in prayer in a direction which will fulfil thy desire. Turn, then, thy face towards the Inviolable House of Worship; and wherever you all may be, turn your faces towards it [in prayer]. And, verily, those who have been vouchsafed revelation aforetime know well that this [commandment] comes in truth from their Sustainer; and God is not unaware of what they do.