Here stands Musholla Al Muta’allim a place perhaps less grand than Jakarta’s famous mosques. Yet its story reflects Indonesia’s spirit. The story of Musholla Al Muta’allim cannot be told with the same details as that of Istiqlal Mosque. We do have the Istiqlal Mosque. It stands as a testament to independence and religious harmony.
Istiqlal means independence in Arabic. This name reflects Indonesia’s hard-won freedom. The idea for this grand mosque arose after Indonesia’s independence in 1945. Key figures like Wahid Hasyim and Anwar Cokroaminoto envisioned a national mosque. President Sukarno himself oversaw its construction.
The Istiqlal Mosque’s design was the result of a competition. Friedrich Silaban a Christian architect won. His faith demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to religious tolerance. Vice President Mohammad Hatta wanted the mosque in a residential area. Sukarno however insisted on a location near Merdeka Square. This location followed Javanese tradition placing the king’s palace and grand mosque near the main square. Sukarno also wanted it near Jakarta Cathedral and Immanuel Church. This symbolized religious harmony.
The Citadel Prins Frederick was demolished to make way for Istiqlal Mosque. Sukarno laid the foundation stone in 1961. Construction lasted 17 years. President Suharto opened Istiqlal Mosque in 1978. It became Southeast Asia’s largest mosque with a capacity of over 120000.
Istiqlal Mosque has faced challenges. A bomb exploded in 1978. Another attack occurred in 1999. Renovations took place between 2019 and 2020. These renovations improved many things. They included the lighting and parking.
A tunnel now connects Istiqlal Mosque and St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral. It is called the Tunnel of Friendship. Pope Francis visited Istiqlal Mosque in 2024. He called it proof of religious moderation. He also signed an Istiqlal Declaration with the Grand Imam.
Istiqlal Mosque has seven entrances. Each gate is named after one of the 99 Names of Allah. The number seven represents the Seven Heavens. Ablution fountains are on the ground floor. The main prayer hall is on the first floor. The mosque has two rectangular structures. The smaller one serves as a gate and prayer space.
The main prayer hall has a 45-meter diameter dome. This number symbolizes the year of Indonesian Independence. A stainless-steel crescent and star adorn the dome. Smaller dome also features a pinnacle. It has the name of Allah in calligraphy. Twelve columns support the dome. They represent the prophet Muhammad’s birthdate.
The main floor and balconies create five floors. The number five represents the Five Pillars of Islam and Pancasila. The interior design is minimalist. Stainless steel ornaments decorate the space. A mihrab and minbar are on the qibla wall. Metalwork displays Arabic calligraphy. It shows the name of Allah and Muhammad.
Istiqlal Mosque has a single minaret. It symbolizes the oneness of God. The minaret is 66.66 meters tall. It incorrectly symbolizes the number of verses in the Quran. A 30-meter pinnacle tops the minaret. A large bedug stands near the minaret.
Istiqlal Mosque can hold over 200000 people. During Christian celebrations Istiqlal Mosque provides parking for worshippers. The mosque uses a central sound system. It has 200 speakers. Plasma TVs display information for pilgrims.
Istiqlal Mosque is on the former Wilhelmina Park. The garden has old trees and a river branch. A fountain spouts water 45 meters high. It operates on Fridays and Islamic holidays. Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar has made the mosque environmentally friendly. Solar panels and a water recycling system are used. The World Bank recognized these efforts.
Many important figures have visited Istiqlal Mosque. These include Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. Also Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Angela Merkel. King Salman of Saudi Arabia visited in 2017.
While Musholla Al Muta’allim may not boast such a famous history it shares the same values. It offers a place for prayer and reflection. Like Istiqlal Mosque it contributes to Indonesia’s rich religious landscape.