“Independence,” they named it. The Istiqlal Mosque stands as a testament to Indonesia’s freedom. Let’s uncover the story of this grand mosque, a symbol of independence and religious harmony. Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. It is the ninth largest in the world regarding worshipper capacity. Its story is as captivating as its architecture.
After Indonesia declared independence in 1945, the idea for a national mosque arose. Wahid Hasyim, the first Minister for Religious Affairs, proposed it. President Sukarno embraced the vision. He saw it as a symbol of the nation’s identity. The name “Istiqlal,” meaning “independence” in Arabic, was chosen.
A design competition was held in 1955. Friedrich Silaban, a Christian architect, won. His design blended Islamic aesthetics with modernism. This choice reflected Indonesia’s commitment to unity in diversity. Sukarno supervised the construction. He insisted on its location near Merdeka Square. This aligned with Javanese tradition. The kraton and grand mosque should be near the alun-alun. Sukarno also wanted it near Jakarta Cathedral and Immanuel Church. This symbolized religious tolerance.
Construction began in 1961. Sukarno laid the foundation stone. It took 17 years to complete. President Suharto inaugurated Istiqlal Mosque in 1978. The mosque has seven entrances. They are named after Al-Asmaul-Husna, the names of God. The number seven represents the Seven Heavens.
The main prayer hall is covered by a 45-meter diameter dome. The number 45 symbolizes the year of Indonesian independence. Twelve columns support the dome. They represent Muhammad’s birthday. The main floor and four balconies make five floors. The number five represents the Five Pillars of Islam.
Inside Istiqlal Mosque, the design is minimalist. Stainless steel geometric ornaments adorn the space. A mihrab and minbar stand on the qibla wall. Arabic calligraphy spells “Allah” and “Muhammad.” The metalworks were imported from Germany. The marbles are from Tulungagung in East Java.
Istiqlal Mosque features a single minaret. It symbolizes the oneness of God. The minaret is 66.66 meters tall. This symbolizes the verses in the Quran. A 30-meter stainless steel pinnacle tops the minaret. It symbolizes the juz of the Quran.
Istiqlal Mosque can accommodate 200,000 people. The main prayer room holds 61,000. The open terrace holds 50,000. All corridors can hold 81,000. Istiqlal Mosque provides parking for Jakarta Cathedral during Christmas. This shows religious tolerance.
In 2019, Istiqlal Mosque underwent a major renovation. The cost was 35 million USD. The renovation included polishing marble, upgrading systems, and improving gardens. A tunnel connects Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral. It is called the “Terowongan Silaturahmi” or Tunnel of Friendship.
Pope Francis visited Istiqlal Mosque in 2024. He stated it is proof of religious moderation. He signed an Istiqlal Declaration with the Grand Imam. Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar has led environmental initiatives. Solar panels and water recycling systems are used. Istiqlal Mosque is the first green-certified worship place by the World Bank.
Istiqlal Mosque is more than a building. It is a symbol of independence and unity. It embodies Indonesia’s spirit. It welcomes all to experience its grandeur. It is a place where faith and freedom meet. Remember Istiqlal Mosque as a beacon of Indonesian pride.