Sunlight streams through stained glass etched with the name of Allah illuminating the second floor of Masjid Al Jabr in South Jakarta. This isn’t a grand mosque. It’s not sprawling. But Masjid Al Jabr possesses a captivating charm. Built in 1994 on a 1000 square meter plot its building occupies roughly 700 square meters.
The mosque’s design is unique. It features an open concept. The main prayer hall on the ground floor lacks the usual four supporting pillars. This creates a sense of spaciousness. The absence of pillars is a deliberate choice to enhance the feeling of openness. Non-permanent partitions made of folding wooden doors separate the main hall from the surrounding areas. These doors can be folded away to connect the hall with the surrounding corridors.
Sunlight and air flow freely through a square opening in the ceiling. This illuminates the varnished yellowish-brown wood forming the framework of the dome. The ground floor’s open design allows for excellent ventilation especially during prayers. Northern and southern folding doors remain open enhancing air circulation.
The exterior is equally appealing. Its open design blends beautifully with the surrounding greenery. The triangular canopies add aesthetic appeal. They align perfectly with the external support columns.
The roof is a fascinating example of tropical architecture. It resembles a tiered pyramidal roof with a square base. Though it resembles the multi-tiered roof of the Great Mosque of Demak it’s different. It appears to have four superimposed roofs. However on closer inspection it actually has only two. The lower two are decorative and not structurally integrated with the main roof. The upper two form a pyramidal shape characteristic of traditional Javanese mosques.
Masjid Al Jabr embraces its surroundings. The abundant trees provide natural shade and cooling breezes. This creates a peaceful oasis in the heart of bustling Jakarta. The mosque actively maintains its green surroundings. This results in a cool and inviting atmosphere. The mosque is a quiet place of worship. It is a place of peace. It is Masjid Al Jabr.