Mosques in Islamic Architecture

Mosque Architecture and Purpose

• The Arabic word 'masjid' means "place of prostration" or "place of worship".

Jami Masjid

• The main purpose of a 'jami masjid' is to serve as a central mosque for the community, where Friday prayers are held.

Architectural Style

• The home of the Prophet Muhammad in Medina is associated with the simple, non-ornate Hijazi architectural style.

Mosque Uses

• Mosques are commonly used for education, communal gatherings, and social services throughout the week, besides prayer.

Mosque Design

• The style, layout, and decoration of a mosque can tell us about the cultural, historical, and regional context in which it was built.

Mihrab

• The purpose of a mihrab in a mosque is to indicate the direction of prayer, which is towards Mecca.

Mosque Courtyard

• A mosque courtyard typically has a fountain to provide a source of water for ablution before prayer.

Minaret

• A minaret serves as a tall structure from which the call to prayer is made, summoning worshippers to prayer.

Dome Architecture

• The dome in a mosque symbolizes the vault of heaven, representing the connection between heaven and earth.

Qibla

• Mosques face towards Mecca, known as the qibla, to symbolize unity and solidarity among Muslims worldwide.

Explore the significance of mosques in Islamic culture and architecture, from Indonesia to the United Kingdom. Learn about the role of mosques as places of prayer, gathering, study, and reflection in the Muslim community.