Was it fate that brought Dato’ Kudul and Dato’ Dji’in to this very spot? Here stands Masjid Jami Al Khairaat. It is a testament to their devotion. This mosque is a beacon of faith in Jakarta Timur. Specifically it is located in the area of Batu Ampar in Condet.
Masjid Jami Al Khairaat is more than just a building. It is a living piece of Jakarta’s history. Many mosques dot the Betawi region of Condet. This indicates a strong Muslim presence. Among these stands Masjid Jami Al Khairaat. It is a historical treasure over 400 years old.
Enyak Fatimah recalls its early days. She is a 72-year-old resident. Her mother’s sibling is buried near Masjid Jami Al Khairaat. She remembers a time when few mosques existed. People came here to pray.
Let’s delve into the story of Masjid Al Khairaat. Mpok Tini is a caretaker and fourth-generation descendant of the founders. She shared the mosque’s origins. Dato’ Kudul and Dato’ Dji’in were brothers. They were native Betawi people from Condet. They donated land to build a langgar. This was a small simple prayer house made of wood.
Mpok Tini recounts its humble beginnings. “In the 16th century Masjid Jami Al Khairaat was not as grand as it is now. It was called Masjid Hutan Condet.” The structure was built using jackfruit wood. Over time Masjid Jami Al Khairaat has seen many changes.
In the past worshippers came from afar. They came not only from Condet. People journeyed from Cawang, Cililitan, Pasar Rebo and surrounding areas. Given its construction in the 16th century Masjid Jami Al Khairaat is now over 420 years old.
Masjid Jami Al Khairaat has undergone renovations. Records show renovations in 1936, 1952, 1967 and 1988. Many renovations happened before that, but were not documented. Mpok Tini remembers her childhood. The side area did not exist yet. A pool and many stones covered the front. This is why the area is called Batu Ampar meaning scattered stones.
Renovations have given Masjid Jami Al Khairaat a modern look. The outer and inner walls feature green and white marble-accented ceramics. The roof has a large dome and a minaret.
Inside, the main prayer area is covered with red carpet. This acts as a prayer mat. The sides and front remain without carpet. The ceiling boasts large hanging lamps. Smaller lights provide additional illumination.
Fans provide air circulation. Despite lacking air conditioning the mosque remains cool. Overall the mosque can accommodate over 2000 worshippers of both genders. Near the mosque lies a cemetery. It is reserved for the families of the founders. Dato’ Kudul and Dato’ Dji’in are also buried here.
Masjid Jami Al Khairaat remains a hub. It is a place for worship and Islamic learning. Friday prayers are held every week. There are study groups for men every Friday night. There are also groups on Saturday after dawn. Masjid Jami Al Khairaat also holds major celebrations. These include Prophet Muhammad’s birthday and Isra Mi’raj. The mosque also organizes fast-breaking meals during Ramadan.
Mpok Tini hopes Masjid Jami Al Khairaat will endure. She wants it to be preserved for future generations. “I hope this mosque will not be lost. I want people to know that Condet has a mosque. It was built in the 16th century. It was built by the Betawi people of Condet.”
As you stand here remember the legacy. Think about Dato’ Kudul and Dato’ Dji’in. Consider the generations who have prayed here. Masjid Jami Al Khairaat stands as a testament. It shows faith and community. It is a treasure in Jakarta’s vibrant tapestry.