Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal

What secrets does a name hold? The name “Angke,” attached to the Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal, whispers tales of a vibrant past. This mosque, officially known as Masjid Jami Angke or Masjid Al-Anwar, isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a testament to Jakarta’s rich, multi-ethnic heritage. Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal stands as one of Jakarta’s oldest mosques, its foundations laid on April 2, 1761. Imagine the bustling streets of 18th-century Batavia, a melting pot of cultures. In this vibrant setting, Nyonya Tan, a Chinese Muslim convert, financed the mosque’s construction. Syaikh Liong Tan, another Chinese convert, brought the mosque’s vision to life. Their combined efforts created a unique architectural marvel that blends Javanese, Balinese, Chinese, and even Dutch influences. Notice the mosque’s tiered roof, a distinctly Javanese feature often found in places of worship. The window shutters whisper tales of Balinese craftsmanship, while the roof’s upward curve, the “punggel,” echoes traditional Balinese architecture. Look closely at the roof’s bracketing. You’ll see the mark of Chinese building norms. Some decorative elements even take the form of a lotus, a symbol of Buddhist enlightenment. The main door and window ornamentation? A subtle nod to Dutch colonial influence. Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal also holds darker stories. The nearby canal, also called Angke, derived its name from the Hokkien words for “blood” and “carcass.” Located near a slaughterhouse, the canal’s waters once ran red. This grim history adds another layer to the mosque’s story. In 1856, Prince Syarif Hamid of Pontianak, captured by the Dutch, breathed his last in Batavia. He was laid to rest in front of Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal, his tomb a silent reminder of political turmoil and cultural exchange. Today, visitors from Pontianak still pay respects at his grave, some choosing to settle in the Angke area. The mosque’s surrounding cemetery holds further secrets, with tombstones bearing both Chinese and Arabic inscriptions, a testament to the area’s diverse community. Over the centuries, Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal has undergone several restorations, each preserving its unique blend of architectural styles. It stands today as a protected cultural heritage site, a beacon of Jakarta’s multicultural past. Masjid Jami’ Al Awwal is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living story, whispering tales of faith, cultural exchange, and resilience across the centuries. As you leave this sacred space, carry its stories with you, a reminder of Jakarta’s rich and vibrant tapestry.