“Gotong Royong!” That is the spirit that built this house. We are standing before Masjid Darul Ishlah. It is a place of community prayer in Jakarta.
Masjid Darul Ishlah may not be as famous as the Istiqlal Mosque. Istiqlal Mosque is a symbol of Indonesian independence. The word “Istiqlal” means independence in Arabic.
Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. It can accommodate over 120000 worshipers. Impressively, a Christian architect designed Istiqlal Mosque. His name was Frederich Silaban.
Construction of Istiqlal Mosque began in 1961. It was completed in 1978. This Jakarta landmark has seven entrances. Each gate is named after one of the 99 names of Allah. The main prayer hall has a large dome. It is 45 meters in diameter. The number 45 represents the year of Indonesian independence.
Pope Francis visited Istiqlal Mosque in September 2024. He called it proof of religious moderation in Indonesia. He also signed the Istiqlal Declaration.
Back here at Masjid Darul Ishlah. Ianni ummu aisyah posted a review in March 2012. She mentioned routine activities for women. These take place every fourth Monday. The theme is forms of torment and punishment in the grave.
Every Wednesday after Maghrib prayers there is Quranic interpretation. On the second Wednesday of each month there is a study session. It starts at 9 AM with Ust. Salim Yahya.
Masjid Darul Ishlah may be smaller than Istiqlal. Yet it is still a vital part of Jakarta’s community. It offers daily prayers and weekly studies. It is a place for spiritual growth and fellowship.