“Ever wonder about a mosque that blends cultures?” I ask. Today, we are standing before the Masjid Jami Al Ghoni. It is a testament to Jakarta’s diverse history.
Masjid Jami Al Ghoni is not just a place of worship. It is a symbol of cultural fusion. The mosque reflects the multiethnic origins of Jakarta. Its story dates back centuries.
The kampung around Masjid Jami Al Ghoni was once known as Kampung Goesti. Balinese people settled here under Kapitan Goesti Ktut Badulu. By the mid-18th century, they converted from Hinduism to Islam.
Masjid Jami Al Ghoni was founded on April 2, 1761. Nyonya Tan and Syaikh Liong Tan were its benefactors. Both were Muslim converts from Batavia’s Chinese community. They played a vital role in establishing this unique mosque.
Close by flowed a canal known as Angke. Angke means blood and carcass in Hokkian. This was because it ran near a slaughterhouse. The area is still known as Pejagalan or slaughterhouse.
In 1856, Prince Syarif Hamid of Pontianak was captured by the Dutch. He died while held at Manggadua. He was buried in front of Masjid Jami Al Ghoni on July 17, 1858. People from Pontianak often visit his grave. Many have settled in Angke.
Many Chinese in this area are devout Muslims. Tombstones near Masjid Jami Al Ghoni bear Chinese and Arabic inscriptions. The oldest tombstones reveal Islamic Banten and Aceh origins. This shows the diverse influences that have shaped the community.
Masjid Jami Al Ghoni has been restored several times. Restorations occurred in 1970, 1985 to 1987 and 2016. It is a cultural heritage site protected by law.
The architecture of Masjid Jami Al Ghoni is unique. It has remained unaltered since its construction. The roof has two levels. This is a typical Javanese style for places of worship. The building blends Balinese, Chinese and Dutch elements.
Balinese elements are clear. Look at the window shutters. The roof tips curve upwards like traditional Balinese architecture. The roof’s bracketing follows Chinese norms. Some decorations feature a Chinese lotus. This is a symbol of Buddhist enlightenment. Dutch colonial influences are visible in the doors and windows.
The mosque is small. It measures 15 x 15 meters on a 400 square meter plot. The complex includes a cemetery.
Masjid Jami Al Ghoni stands as a symbol of Jakarta’s layered history. It embodies a mix of cultures. It reminds us of the diverse communities that have shaped this city. Take a moment to appreciate this unique blend. Consider the stories woven into its walls. Let’s carry these images and stories as we continue our journey.