Symbolism and Meaning in Old Masjid Architecture of Malay Archipelago: A Case Study of Masjid in Kerinci, Jambi, Indonesia-presentation

Abdul Rahim, Zaiton and Mohd Nawawi, Norwina and Denan, Zuraini and Abdul Majid, Noor Hanita and Abdullah, Fadzidah (2019) Symbolism and Meaning in Old Masjid Architecture of Malay Archipelago: A Case Study of Masjid in Kerinci, Jambi, Indonesia-presentation. In: 2nd International Conference on Islamic Architectural Heritage, 26th - 28th August 2019, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University Istanbul, Turkey. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Masjid (mosque) plays a significant role in the life of a Muslim. Throughout history, the old masjids of the old cities and towns reflect the acculturation of Islamic faith with the local culture that embraced the religion. This paper demonstrates through experiential learning how acculturation of Islamic faith and culture of the people in the Malay Archipelago gives symbolic meanings to the masjid architecture and enhances the spatial as well as the spiritual experience of the people. The old masjid in the Kerinchi region of Sumatra, Indonesia, was selected as the case studies. In the process of the research, important aspects of the religion and culture were encoded, presented and communicated in the form of architectural features of the masjid, giving meanings and heightened the spiritual experience of the users. The symbolic meanings made through architectural manifestation, in physical form, both structural and non-structural components of the masjid, enriches and gives a distinctive and unique character to the masjid architecture. The symbolic meanings in the old masjid architecture of Kerinci are simplified abstractions to manifest the worldview of the local people based on the spirit of Islam. The paper concluded that incorporating symbolism that does not impede Islamic teachings or the shariah in designing a masjid can enhance and even exalted the religious spirit of users while providing distinct character to the masjid. Old masjids are the best example of how architecture can play a significant role is not only as a focal congregational space for the daily worshippers but can also enhance their spiritual experiences. In the same process, the physical masjid naturally creates an identity to the place -charmingly.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Slide Presentation)
Additional Information:	This paper is made possible with the FRGS grant by the Government of Malaysia titled: Analysing Fundamental Values of Islam in the Planning and Design of Historic Nusantara Vernacular Masjid Architecture for Regional Sustainable Malay Islamic Architecture.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Old Masjid, Symbolism, Malay Archipelago
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GN Anthropology G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GT Manners and customs N Fine Arts > NA Architecture N Fine Arts > NA Architecture > NA4100 Special classes of buildings > NA4590 Religious buildings N Fine Arts > Islamic art and architecture > Architectural components N Fine Arts > Islamic art and architecture > Islamic decoration
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design > Department of Architecture
Depositing User:	Ar Dr Norwina Mohd Nawawi
Date Deposited:	08 Jan 2020 12:37
Last Modified:	08 Jan 2020 12:37
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/77638

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