Did you know that Moskee Taqwa is Amsterdam’s first mosque within the A10 ring road that features a dome and minaret? Let’s delve into the story of this unique place of worship.
Moskee Taqwa stands in the industrial area behind Sloterdijk station in Amsterdam-Westpoort. It welcomes every Muslim to perform daily prayers and seek knowledge. Openness and hospitality define Moskee Taqwa.
The Stichting Nederlandse Moslim Associatie NMA founded Moskee Taqwa. This foundation started in 2010 by Dutch people mainly of Surinamese origin. These individuals are sometimes called the new Dutch.
The NMA aimed to unite Muslims in the Netherlands. From the start, the emphasis was on the country of residence not origin. They also wanted to build a mosque. In 2013, Moskee Taqwa opened.
Reports indicated increasing segregation among Muslims in the Netherlands. Therefore, the NMA sought to promote integration. They wanted to highlight what connects different groups. That is their Islamic faith and the Netherlands.
Moskee Taqwa sees cultural diversity as enrichment. The organization aims to attract Muslims of various backgrounds. It strives for multi-ethnic unity. Integration is key for the Stichting Nederlandse Moslim Associatie NMA.
Moslems are encouraged to participate fully in Dutch society. Moskee Taqwa believes practicing Islam is possible in the Netherlands. Lectures in Dutch convey Islamic knowledge. Social issues are highlighted from an Islamic view. This helps integration and participation based on mutual respect. Prejudices must be dispelled. Lectures stress that Islam is a religion of peace not violence.
The community should show a peaceful attitude. The NMA also wants to promote the emancipation of women. A very active women’s group organizes activities. These activities aim to increase Islamic knowledge. They also encourage women to be active in Dutch society.
The board of the Stichting Nederlandse Moslim Associatie NMA is supported by advisors. The organization relies on volunteers. Around 300 families from Amsterdam and surrounding areas are involved.
Moskee Taqwa offers various activities. There are Koran and religious lessons for all ages. Lectures cover different Islamic topics regularly. There are information meetings about health. Religious holidays are observed appropriately.
Moskee Taqwa follows the principles of Ahle Sunna. This is based on the Holy Quran and Prophet Mohammed’s teachings. The mosque offers facilities for deceased persons and prayers. Religious acts like the Djanazah prayer can be performed.
The Jumu’ah prayer times vary with the seasons. During winter, the talk starts at 12:45 PM. The prayer begins at 1:15 PM. In summer, the talk starts at 1:30 PM. The prayer starts at 2:00 PM.
Moskee Taqwa is more than a building. It is a center for community engagement integration and spiritual growth.