“What secrets does this mosque hold?” I ask you standing here in front of Masjid Jami Al-Hidayah. This isn’t just a place of worship. It is a testament to resilience. It is a symbol of the Indonesian spirit.
Masjid Jami Al-Hidayah stands proudly. It is located in Kaliabang Bungur near the Seroja Bekasi intersection. This mosque was built in 1935. Visionary religious figures founded it. Among them were K.H. Noer Ali, Ust. Burhanuddin and H. Thoha.
Initially, it was named Masjid Jami an-Nur. H. James and others donated the 4000 square meter land. The building was simple. The community’s socio-economic condition was dire due to colonization. The floor was just earth covered with pandan mats. It could only accommodate about 70 people. Yet, this Masjid Jami Al-Hidayah became a vital base. It served as a training ground. Young Muslims prepared to become Hizbullah/Sabilillah fighters. These fighters were feared by the colonizers.
The Dutch and Japanese closely watched the mosque. They suspected the activities of Bekasi Muslims held here. Ust. Burhanuddin, a first-generation administrator, was arrested. He was teaching at the mosque when Dutch soldiers detained him. Colonial authorities received reports. He was explaining Quranic interpretations. These interpretations concerned the obligation of jihad for believers.
The Dutch colonial government strictly forbade translating the Quran into Malay. Especially verses about jihad. Jihad encouraged people to resist Dutch rule.
When Japan replaced the Dutch, the mosque remained under strict surveillance. Japanese intelligence suspected an underground movement directed from here. However, the Japanese never found solid evidence. The mosque administrators were cautious. They were supported by the entire congregation. They protected their religious activities. They also supported the independence movement.
After Indonesia’s independence, the mosque focused on development. Every three years, expansions were carried out. Gradually, Masjid al-Hidayah became a permanent structure.
During the rise of communism, Masjid al-Hidayah played a crucial role again. It protected the community’s faith. During the G/30 S/PKI rebellion, the congregation helped suppress those involved. They fought against the forbidden party’s activities.
When the country stabilized, the mosque continued to develop its facilities. Renovations began in January 1991. The renovations cost about Rp300 million. The goal was to build a two-story mosque. It would accommodate over 2000 worshipers.
Now, Masjid Jami Al-Hidayah stands as a symbol. It represents faith, resistance and community spirit. It is a beacon of hope. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made for independence. It stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the Indonesian people.