Have you ever wondered what it means to be steadfast in unity? That’s the essence of Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad. Its name translates to “Teguh dalam persatuan” which means “Steadfast in unity”.
The Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad stands proudly on Jalan Ciputat Raya. It is located at number 10 in Pondok Pinang, Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta. Imagine traveling from Pondok Indah Mall just 1.5 km to the southwest to find this architectural gem.
Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad was completed and inaugurated on a very special day. It was on 12 Rabiul Awal 1404 H. That corresponds to December 17, 1983. The Minister for People’s Welfare, Mr. H. Alamsjah Ratu Perwiranegara, officiated the opening. Back then, the mosque was considered modern and complete. It even had a kindergarten making it a model mosque.
Picture this modern architecture with Javanese traditional touches. The dome is shaped like a joglo roof. Pillars surround the building, giving it a robust look. A 17-meter-high minaret stands to the front left. It assures everyone that this is indeed a mosque.
The Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad consists of two floors. The first floor spans about 500 square meters. It serves as a multi-purpose hall. On Fridays, it becomes an extension of the prayer space. The second floor is the main prayer hall. It also covers approximately 500 square meters. In total, the mosque can accommodate around 2000 worshipers.
Imagine stepping into the prayer hall. You climb 30 steps to reach the second floor. The space feels open because there are no pillars obstructing the view. The altar wall is covered in natural-patterned cream marble. A stainless steel calligraphy of “Allah” adorns the right side. On the left you see the words of Prophet Muhammad SAW.
The mihrab is a niche that is 2.5 meters wide. It is 3 meters high and 2 meters deep. The sides meet in a triangular shape like a roof. An antique lamp hangs in the center. The mihrab remains simple without any excessive ornaments. Inside, there is an antique clock, a digital mosque clock, a prayer rug for the imam, and a podium. The podium is made of wood. It features a carved calligraphy of the Tauhid sentence on the front.
The floor is covered with cream marble. Two layers of carpet cover the marble. The bottom layer is plain green. The top layer is Dunhill red with shaft line motifs. The ceiling is painted yellow. The lower side of the dome is left bare. A luxurious crystal chandelier hangs from here.
The prayer room follows an open concept. The left and right sides are open. They are only separated by chest-high walls. The rear consists of pressed iron partitions with Islamic star motifs. The same motif decorates the vents above the doors and windows.
To ensure the comfort of the worshipers, the Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad is equipped with fans. There are four ceiling fans resembling helicopters. Six high-powered wall fans also provide a cool breeze. Masjid Jami’ Ni’matul Ittihad is more than just a building. It embodies the spirit of unity and faith in the community.