“Imagine a sanctuary born from marshland.” That’s the story of Musholla Al Barkah. It stands as one of Kemang’s oldest mosques in South Jakarta. This Jami mosque has stood for over a century and a half.
In 1818 Guru Sinin established this sacred place. Legend says Guru Sinin hailed from Banten and was considered a wali or saintly figure. Other venerable mosques mirror Al Barkah’s age. They include Masjid Pedurenan, Masjid at-Taqwa, and Masjid Istiqmal. All are located within South Jakarta.
H. Ukib a third-generation witness recalls its origins. The Musholla Al Barkah was built on swampy land nearly one meter deep. Early construction faced complex permit procedures. Approvals were needed from religious leaders and the Dutch Colonial government.
The initial structure used basic materials. Rumbia leaves and coconut tree trunks formed its frame. Coconut wood served as pillars and rumbia leaves as roofing. Later in 1932 the community contributed to upgrades. Wooden planks replaced earlier materials through community donations.
Further renovations occurred in 1935, 1950, 1960, and 1970. The mosque’s interior saw gradual changes. By 1985 Al Barkah featured ceramic tiles and eternit roofing. These materials made it similar to other mosques.
A unique feature lies to the building’s west. Several old tombs rest there. Guru Sinin who passed away in 1920 is buried in one. K.H. Ridi Guru Sinin’s son-in-law rests there too. He died in 1933. Also K.H. Naisin K.H. Ridi’s son is buried there. He died at the age of 132 years and was the father of H. Ukib.
Guru Sinin possessed unique gifts. People sought his blessings and advice. Even after his death visitors still seek blessings at his tomb. Strange events sometimes occur at the Al Barkah mosque. H. Ukib tells of leading prayers with his late grandfather Guru Sinin. H. Ukib now continues his ancestor’s work.
Originally the mosque stood on swampy ground. Abdul Somad a fifth-generation caretaker shared this detail. The area was once swampland and forest. Guru Sinin arrived to spread Islam. He encouraged the local population to embrace Islam.
A small surau or prayer house was built. This humble beginning evolved into Masjid Al Barkah. Early construction used kirai wood. Over time community support led to improvements. It transformed the surau into the Al Barkah mosque.
A small minaret has been preserved. All other parts have been renovated. The Musholla Al Barkah stands as a testament to faith. It reflects community spirit and historical transformation.