Envision a sanctuary standing modestly amidst Jakarta’s towering structures. This is Musholla Attabin. At Taibin means “Place of Repentance”. It stands as a testament to faith and history. It is a quiet space amid the urban sprawl.
The story of Musholla Attabin begins in 1815. Some say it was not officially recognized until 1918. Back then, the area was known as Kampung Besar. The mosque was then simply called Masjid Kampung Besar. Local vegetable traders in Pasar Senen initiated its construction. They pooled their resources to create this house of worship. Over time, the mosque’s name evolved. It was briefly known as Masjid Imroni’ah. In the 1970s, it was renamed At Taibin.
Imagine the Pasar Senen of old. It was a bustling hub. The traders wanted a place for prayer and reflection. Musholla Attabin became that place. It became more than just a mosque. It became a symbol of their community.
During Indonesia’s struggle for independence, Musholla Attabin played a vital role. It served as a strategic meeting point for Indonesian fighters. The traders of Pasar Senen supported the freedom fighters. They provided essential supplies. The mosque became a place to plan strategies against the Dutch. Battles in Senen, Tanah Tinggi and Keramat were discussed here. Fighters gathered within its walls. They gained spiritual strength before facing the enemy. Musholla Attabin became a hidden armory. Weapons were stashed here. They were waiting for the fighters.
The architecture of Musholla Attabin blends European and Indonesian styles. This reflects the era in which it was built. The Dutch colonial influence is evident in its design. The building stands on 711 square meters of land. The mosque is rectangular. It measures 25 by 20 meters. The roof has two layers. It is covered with red clay tiles.
Inside, four sturdy pillars of dark teak support the structure. These pillars are original. They have stood since the mosque’s inception. The names of donors are carved at the top. The pillars reach a height of 13 meters. The mosque is made of black teak. There are calligraphic decorations on the outside. The floor is covered in marble.
The mimbar is a unique feature. It is made of teak wood. It measures 2 by 1.2 meters. It stands three meters tall. Three marble steps lead up to it. This design reminds us of the mosques built by the Wali Songo. These are the revered saints who spread Islam in Java.
In the 1980s, Musholla Attabin faced demolition. The Segitiga Senen area was being redeveloped. But the community resisted. They united to save their beloved mosque. The governor at the time supported their cause. He diplomatically ensured its preservation.
Today, Musholla Attabin stands surrounded by modern buildings. It seems small compared to the towering skyscrapers. Yet, its presence is deeply felt. It offers solace to workers in the area. It provides a peaceful place for prayer. The cool air and serene environment create a sense of tranquility.
Musholla Attabin also provides social services. There is a simple school for children. A baitul mal manages alms. There is also a savings and loan cooperative. During Ramadan, the mosque comes alive. The managers organize special programs. These include religious lectures after prayers. There are also short sermons before Tarawih and Subuh prayers. They provide iftar. They also organize social events. They distribute alms to orphans before Eid al-Fitr.
Musholla Attabin is more than just a building. It is a living testament to faith. It is a symbol of resistance. It is a community hub. It is a place of peace in the heart of Jakarta. As you leave, remember the traders, the fighters and the worshippers. They have all contributed to the story of this special place.