Masjid Adz-Dzikru

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta, lies Masjid Adz-Dzikru. It’s a place of serenity. A beacon of faith. Masjid Adz-Dzikru wasn’t always called that. When its doors first opened in 1958, after five years of construction, it was simply known as Masjid Agung Kebayoran, or the Kebayoran Great Mosque. It held the title of Jakarta’s largest mosque. This distinction lasted until the completion of the Istiqlal Mosque in 1978. But size isn’t everything. Masjid Adz-Dzikru has a unique story to tell. The mosque’s construction began in 1953. A group of 14 individuals from the Masyumi Party envisioned a mosque and school in Kebayoran Baru. With the support of the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs and a generous land donation from the mayor of Jakarta, their vision began to materialize. The renowned Indonesian scholar and activist, Hamka, advised them to build the mosque first. He suggested incorporating ample office and meeting space. This would allow the mosque to function as a center of activity, even while the school was still under construction. A fascinating twist in the story of Masjid Adz-Dzikru is the involvement of the Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Mahmud Shaltut. During his visit to Jakarta in 1960, he suggested the name change. He also bestowed upon Hamka the title of Imam Besar, or Chief Imam, of Masjid Adz-Dzikru. This appointment was significant for Hamka. It reflected his concerns about the direction of Indonesian society and the future of Islam. He saw Masjid Adz-Dzikru as a crucial center for the revival of modern Islam and the propagation of faith. The mosque became a focal point for anti-communist campaigns among Muslims during the turbulent period following the 30 September Movement. Masjid Adz-Dzikru’s impact extended beyond worship. In 1967, a kindergarten was established within the complex, marking the beginning of its educational endeavors. These efforts culminated in the founding of Al-Azhar University Indonesia in 2000, further solidifying the mosque’s role in education. Masjid Adz-Dzikru’s significance was officially recognized in 1993 when it was designated a Jakarta heritage site and a national cultural heritage. The architecture of Masjid Adz-Dzikru reflects Middle Eastern influences with its distinctive white onion dome and single minaret. Beyond its architectural beauty, Masjid Adz-Dzikru has always been more than just a place of worship. It has served as a hub for social activities and the propagation of faith. It was a pioneer among Indonesia’s “modern” mosques, incorporating facilities like an Islamic library, lecture halls, a health clinic, and classrooms for religious and secular subjects. Today, Masjid Adz-Dzikru stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the enduring spirit of faith.