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Masjid Istiqlal

Istiqlal is the Arabic word for Independence. Masjid Istiqlal (Independence Mosque) was so named and built to commemorate Indonesia’s independence from the Netherlands in 1949.  According to this article, this mosque is the biggest one in Southeast Asia.

The rectangular main prayer hall is topped with a dome 45-meter in diameter that is supported by twelve pillars. In this hall, there are five floors. Outside there is a Minaret, which is 6,666 centimeters high representing the 6,666 characters of Al’ Qu’ran. Around the mosque, there are sign that read “Kiblat” and that point to the direction of Mecca where each Muslim must face during prayer. Every space in the mosque is a place where one could pray. Each block, row or line designates where one must sit, kneel or stand in prayer.

As I do not have much time to verify their meaning, I hesitate to write about the significance of the location and measurement of each structure in the mosque. Suffice is to say, however, that the dimension and location of the structures are deliberate and meaningful. The architect of Masjid Istiqlal is Friedrich Silaban, a Christian. The mosque is also located across from Gereja Santa Maria Pelindung Diangkat Ke Surga (the Church of our Lady of Assumption), a Catholic church built in 1901.