Masjid Mohammediyah

Could a single act of generosity echo through centuries? At Masjid Mohammediyah in Lansdowne, the answer is a resounding yes. Masjid Mohammediyah isn’t mentioned in my historical resources. However, I can tell you about another mosque with a similar story of generosity. The Auwal Masjid in Cape Town stands as a testament to the enduring power of human kindness. It all began in 1794 during the first British occupation of the Cape. A freed slave named Coridon van Ceylon, also known as a Vryezwarten or Free Black Muslim, purchased two properties in Dorp Street. Upon Coridon’s death, his daughter, Saartjie van de Kaap, inherited the properties. This remarkable woman donated a warehouse on the property. This warehouse became the foundation of the Auwal Masjid. The building was adapted. A mihrab, a niche indicating the direction of prayer, was added. The Auwal Masjid became a beacon of hope and a symbol of the Cape Muslims’ struggle for religious freedom. It also served as a vital center for the community, shaping their social and religious lives. The first Imam, Qadi Abdussalam, affectionately known as Tuan Guru, was a remarkable figure. He transcribed the entire Quran from memory while imprisoned. This handwritten Quran remains a treasured artifact at the Auwal Masjid. Tuan Guru established a madrassah at the mosque, educating both children and adults in the tenets of Islam. The Auwal Masjid’s legacy extends beyond its physical walls. It represents the enduring spirit of the Cape Muslim community and their unwavering commitment to their faith. The mosque has seen renovations and expansions over the years, notably in 1807 and again extensively in 1936. But the heart of the Auwal Masjid remains the same: a place of worship, learning, and community. It is a living testament to the generosity of Saartjie van de Kaap and the enduring spirit of the Cape Muslim community.