Masjid Raya Al Azhar

Amidst Jakarta’s bustling energy, the Masjid Raya Al Azhar stands as a beacon of serenity. It’s more than just a mosque. It’s a testament to the vision of a community and the enduring legacy of Buya Hamka. Masjid Raya Al Azhar’s story began in 1952, a mere seven years after Indonesia’s independence. A group of 14 figures from the Masyumi Party, driven by the need for a mosque and school in the burgeoning Kebayoran Baru area, laid the foundation for what would become a landmark. The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs provided initial funding. The mayor of Jakarta donated four hectares of land. Under the guidance of renowned Indonesian scholar Hamka, the mosque was prioritized. He envisioned a space that could serve as a hub for Islamic learning and community activities, even before the school was completed. Masjid Raya Al Azhar, originally known as Masjid Agung Kebayoran, was completed in 1958. It held the title of Jakarta’s largest mosque until the Istiqlal Mosque was finished in 1978. The mosque’s distinctive white onion dome, a nod to Middle Eastern architecture, stands as a recognizable symbol in the city’s skyline. The single minaret adds to its elegant profile. The name “Al-Azhar” was bestowed upon the mosque in 1960, a suggestion from the Grand Imam of al-Azhar in Cairo, Mahmud Shaltut, during his visit to Jakarta. This renaming symbolized the mosque’s ambition to become a center of Islamic learning, echoing the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Cairo. The mosque’s design, a blend of Middle Eastern and European influences, showcases a unique elliptical dome. This sets it apart from traditional mosque architecture in Indonesia. The interior features intricate calligraphy of the Asmaul Husna, the 99 names of Allah. Masjid Raya Al Azhar is not just a place of worship. It has served as a center for social activities and da’wah, the propagation of Islamic faith, from its inception. It hosted various facilities, including an Islamic library, lecture halls, a health clinic, and even dormitories. The mosque played a significant role during the tumultuous period following the 30 September Movement in 1965, becoming a focal point for anti-communist campaigns among Muslims. Buya Hamka’s influence on Masjid Raya Al Azhar is undeniable. He served as the mosque’s first Chief Imam and played a crucial role in its development as a center for Islamic learning. His renowned Tafsir Al-Azhar, a commentary on the Quran, further cemented the mosque’s reputation. Masjid Raya Al Azhar continues to thrive as a vibrant hub. It offers a wide range of religious and social programs, including daily religious studies, youth programs, and charitable activities. The mosque stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the enduring spirit of community.