Beneath Jakarta’s skyline stands the Istiqlal Mosque. This grand structure isn’t just a place of worship. It symbolizes Indonesia’s independence. Did you know Istiqlal is Arabic for independence?
The Istiqlal Mosque’s story began after Indonesia’s independence proclamation in 1945. Wahid Hasyim and Anwar Cokroaminoto dreamed of a national mosque. Cokroaminoto led the Istiqlal Mosque Foundation. In 1953 he proposed the idea to President Sukarno. Sukarno embraced it and oversaw construction.
There were debates about location. Vice President Hatta wanted it near residential areas. Sukarno insisted on Merdeka Square. He wanted it near the palace. This followed Javanese tradition. The king’s palace and grand mosque should be near the main square. Sukarno also wanted it near Jakarta Cathedral and Immanuel Church. This symbolized religious harmony.
Finally Taman Widjaja Kusuma was chosen. It was formerly Wilhelmina Park. An old citadel was demolished to make way.
Friedrich Silaban designed the Istiqlal Mosque. He won a design competition. Interestingly Silaban was the son of a Lutheran pastor. Sukarno laid the foundation stone in 1961. Construction took 17 years. President Suharto inaugurated it in 1978.
The Istiqlal Mosque has seven entrances. Each gate is named after Allah. The number seven represents the Seven Heavens. Ablution fountains are on the ground floor. The prayer hall is on the first floor. The main hall has a 45-meter diameter dome. The number 45 symbolizes 1945. This was the year of Indonesia’s independence. The dome features a crescent and star.
Inside twelve columns support the dome. They represent Muhammad’s birthday. Four levels of balconies make five floors. The number five represents the Five Pillars of Islam. It also represents Pancasila Indonesia’s national philosophy.
The Istiqlal Mosque’s minaret is 66.66 meters tall. Some believe this symbolizes the verses in the Quran. The minaret has a 30-meter pinnacle. This represents the Quran’s 30 juz.
Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar has championed green initiatives. These include solar panels and water recycling. The Istiqlal Mosque is a green-certified worship place.
Many dignitaries have visited the Istiqlal Mosque. These include Barack Obama and King Salman. In September 2024 Pope Francis visited the Istiqlal Mosque. He stated it was proof of religious moderation.
The Istiqlal Mosque stands as a symbol. It represents independence faith and harmony. Its architecture reflects Indonesian history. Its presence promotes tolerance. It is a testament to Indonesia’s spirit. The Istiqlal Mosque welcomes all.