“Imagine needing a place for prayer during Ramadhan.” That’s what many Jakarta residents experience and that’s where Mushola Baitul Karim comes into play. This isn’t just another prayer space, it’s a center, a hub, and a vital part of the local community.
Welcome to Mushola Baitul Karim. It’s located in the heart of Jakarta. More precisely, at Jalan Cipinang Cempedak I No. 14, Otista, Polonia, Jatinegara. Here, faith and community intertwine. Vice President Jusuf Kalla inaugurated the Gedung Pusat Dakwah Hidayatullah and the Mushola Baitul Karim on October 11, 2019.
During Ramadhan, the Mushola Baitul Karim truly comes alive. Saddam Husein, a security officer at the Gedung Pusat Dakwah Hidayatullah, ensures order. He makes sure that the parking runs smoothly for the many people coming to pray. The Mushola Baitul Karim is particularly busy during the last ten days of Ramadhan. Many seek Lailatul Qadar, the Night of Power.
The mosque is well-maintained. Jamaah, or worshipers, appreciate its cleanliness and facilities. Muhamad Ibnu Sina, a jamaah, praised the Mushola Baitul Karim for being comfortable, clean, and well-equipped. A special venue accommodates female worshipers. It provides a safe and comfortable space. It is separate yet integrated through video conferencing.
Unlike other mosques that see dwindling numbers towards the end of Ramadhan, Mushola Baitul Karim remains packed. People come from Cipinang Cempedak, Kebun Nanas, and even the Arab community and traders from Pasar Sawo. Employees from nearby offices also frequent the mosque.
Throughout Ramadhan, the Mushola Baitul Karim hosts Tarawih and Lail prayers. They recite one juz, or part of the Quran, each night. During the first 20 days, Ust. Muhammad Yusri Ramadhon Al Zami Al-Hafizh leads the Tahajjud prayers. These prayers begin at 2:00 AM.
The DKM Masjid Baitul Karim provides services to the jamaah during Ramadhan. These services include breaking the fast and Sahur. Muhsinin, or benefactors, generously donate food and drinks.
Besides physical nourishment, the Mushola Baitul Karim also focuses on spiritual growth. They schedule Ramadhan studies with various speakers. Ust. Aghis Mahruri, head of the DKM Masjid Baitul Karim, organizes these events. These lectures offer knowledge about Ramadhan practices and Islamic themes. During the last ten days, these studies shift to after the Ashar prayer.
After Subuh prayers, there are lessons on improving Quranic recitation. Ust. Muhammad Yusri Ramadhon Al Zami Al-Hafizh leads these sessions. He focuses on teaching two verses at a time. During the last ten days of Ramadhan, the Mushola Baitul Karim opens registration for Itikaf participants. They limit the number to 120.
Almost constantly during Ramadhan, the Mushola Baitul Karim is open 24 hours. Worshipers continuously recite the Quran. The Mushola Baitul Karim collaborates with Baitul Maal Hidayatullah. Together, they help worshipers donate Zakat Fitrah, Zakat Maal, Fidyah, Infaq, Sadaqah, and Waqf. Special officers assist with these donations.
The Mushola Baitul Karim isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant center of faith, community, and service. It is a place where people come together to worship. People learn and grow, especially during the holy month of Ramadhan.