A legacy of faith stands before you. This is Masjid Jami Al Azhar. Its white walls gleam under the Jakarta sun.
Masjid Jami Al Azhar in Kebayoran Baru is more than a mosque. It’s a living testament to faith and community. Built between 1953 and 1958 it was once Jakarta’s largest mosque. That is until the completion of Masjid Istiqlal.
The story begins with fourteen members of the Masyumi Party. They envisioned a mosque and school. Their dream took shape in Kebayoran Baru. This new suburb was part of President Soekarno’s plan for satellite housing communities. The Ministry of Religious Affairs provided seed money. The Mayor of Jakarta donated four hectares of land. Hamka a prominent Indonesian ulama and activist guided the project. He wisely suggested building the mosque first. It would include ample space for meetings and classes. The school construction could follow. Work began on November 19 1953.
In 1960 the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar University in Cairo visited. Professor Dr Mahmut Shaltut was deeply impressed. He bestowed the name Masjid Jami Al Azhar on the magnificent building. Hamka became the mosque’s first Imam Besar or Chief Imam. His role reflected his concern for Islam’s place in Indonesian society. He saw knowledge as crucial for Islam’s survival. Masjid Jami Al Azhar became a center for Islamic revival. It played a vital role during the 1965-1966 anti-communist campaign.
Today Masjid Jami Al Azhar remains a beacon. It is part of a larger complex. This includes schools from kindergarten to university level. The mosque’s simple exterior belies its stunning interior. Colorful calligraphy adorns the walls. High windows bathe the prayer hall in natural light. The dome’s interior features calligraphy too. The name of Allah is at its peak. Ninety-nine Asma’ul Husna surround it. Small windows encircle the dome adding to the ethereal glow. The mosque stands as a symbol of enduring faith and community. It is a national cultural heritage site. Its story is one of vision perseverance and unwavering devotion. A legacy that continues to inspire.