“Jami” means congregation. Ever been to a mosque where history and spirituality meet? That’s Masjid Jami Al-Muqorrobin. Let me share its captivating story with you.
This mosque stands on Jalan Lodan Raya in Kampung Bandan. It is in Ancol North Jakarta. It can accommodate 600 to 700 people. Although not large it attracts many visitors.
Alwi Bin Ali Asy Syathri is the chairman of Masjid Jami Al-Muqorrobin. He recounts the story of its origin. Two prominent scholars from Yemen are buried here. These scholars spread Islam throughout Nusantara. They began in India moved to Aceh and finally arrived here. They preached in this area until their deaths.
Habib Mohammad Bin Umar Qlqudsi died in 1697. Habib Ali Bin Abdurrahman Ba’Alawi died in 1701. Later in 1879 Habib Abdurrahman Bin Alwi Asy Syathri built this mosque. He built it beside the tombs of his two predecessors. The mosque was renamed Jami’ Al Mukarrohmah in 2006. Al Mukarrohmah means “those who are honored by Allah”.
Near the mosque stand two date palms. These trees are about 40 years old. One tree near the entrance no longer bears fruit. The other always bears fruit near or during Ramadan or Eid. Pilgrims often ask for the young dates from this tree. They believe it aids fertility. It helps those trying to conceive.
Currently four scholars who spread Islam are buried here. Three unnamed tombs are also present. These are believed to be the tombs of Kampung Bandan residents. Alwi recounts that these residents were brought from Banda Maluku by the Dutch. A pilgrim from Banda once visited. He noted the gravestones were similar to those in his region.
During Ramadan Masjid Jami Al-Muqorrobin provides 80 to 100 takjil meals for pilgrims. These visitors come from Jakarta and beyond. They seek blessings at Masjid Jami Al-Muqorrobin.
Masjid Jami Al-Mukarromah in Kampung Bandan is considered a sacred mosque. This is due to the tomb of Habib Islamic syiar carrier. The tomb inside the mosque is what makes the mosque visited by pilgrims. They have various activities related to worship and pilgrimage.
The mosque represents more than just a building. It is a testament to faith history and community. Masjid Jami Al-Muqorrobin embodies Jakarta’s rich Islamic heritage. It offers peace and reflection to all who visit.