Wonder how a building with red yellow and green colours can be a mosque? Welcome to the Lautze Mosque. It stands as a symbol of cultural harmony. This mosque is not just a place of worship. It is a testament to the integration of Chinese and Indonesian cultures.
Lautze Mosque was established in 1991. The Haji Abdul Karim Oei Foundation founded it. It is named after Abdul Karim Oei. He was a prominent nationalist and Chinese Indonesian. In 1994, the mosque expanded with a grant from Suharto. B. J. Habibie inaugurated it that same year. The mosque’s nameplate appeared outside in 2018.
This Jakarta mosque is a haven for ethnic Chinese Indonesians embracing Islam. It serves as a focal point for community integration. The Lautze Mosque welcomes all.
Notice the unique architecture. The Lautze Mosque is housed in two adjacent shop lots. These buildings are painted in red, yellow, and green. These colours are significant in Chinese culture. Red signifies luck, happiness, and abundance. Yellow symbolizes loyalty and purity. Green indicates peace and is also a typical colour of Islam.
The mosque has three floors. It can accommodate up to 300 worshippers. The main prayer hall is on the ground floor. The upper floor houses an additional prayer hall and the wudu area. The top floor contains the administration office. The design reflects Chinese architectural style.
Inside, you will find Arabic calligraphy in Chinese style. It measures 15×20 metres. The letters are written in black ink on a white background. This calligraphy was created by a Chinese Muslim in Shenzhen.
The Lautze Mosque’s location is on Lautze Road. The mosque was intentionally given a Chinese name. This was to attract the Chinese community. It encourages them to learn about Islam and visit the mosque. The name “Lautze” comes from Laozi. He was an ancient Chinese philosopher who taught Taoism. Laozi taught that God is one but invisible.
Interestingly, the Lautze Mosque has unusual operational hours. It is only open for two prayer times in the afternoon. This is because most worshippers work nearby. The mosque follows their office hours.
Although founded by Chinese Indonesians, the Lautze Mosque does not celebrate Chinese New Year with special events. Instead, they hold a Quran recitation session. This gathering allows Chinese Muslims to reunite and interact. They maintain their cultural ties while practicing their faith.
The Lautze Mosque has facilitated over 1000 Chinese Indonesians to embrace Islam. It is a welcoming place for new converts. The mosque embodies togetherness affection and mutual respect. It demonstrates that embracing Islam does not mean abandoning one’s culture.
As you leave the Lautze Mosque, remember its message. It is a beacon of harmony. It celebrates both faith and cultural heritage. It is a unique and special place in Jakarta.