Juma Mosque
Definition
Juma Mosque, built in 1606 in Delhi by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is a significant historical and architectural monument in India. It has been a focal point for Muslim political activity, reflecting the dynamic socio-political landscape of the region.
Arabic: مسجد الجمعة
Turkish: Cuma Camii
Background
Built during the reign of Shah Jahan, known for his grand architectural contributions including the Taj Mahal, the Juma Mosque has stood as a symbol of Islamic faith and authority in India. The mosque not only served as a bustling hub for worshippers every Friday (Jumwa/جمعة), a day of communal prayers in Islam, but also became intertwined with the history and politics of the region.
Political Significance
For centuries, the Juma Mosque has played a pivotal role in the socio-political discourse in Delhi. It has been a platform for political speeches, especially during times of turmoil and crisis, reflecting the ongoing political and communal tensions.
Controversies
In recent years, the mosque has been at the center of a heated dispute. Some Hindu factions have claimed that the mosque was constructed over a pre-existing Hindu temple. This has led to demands for the mosque’s demolition to pave the way for a new temple at the site. This controversy echoes the broader, ongoing conflicts between Hindu and Muslim communities in India.
Etymology
- Juma/Jumma: Derived from the Arabic word “جمعة” which means “Friday”, indicating the mosque’s main congregation day.
- Mosque: Originated from the Arabic word “masjid” (مسجد), which means “place of prostration”.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Blitz, Laura. Islamic Architecture: Form, Function, and Meaning. ISBN: 978-0231128263.
- Asher, Catherine B. Architecture of Mughal India (The New Cambridge History of India). ISBN: 978-0521566034.
- Leonard, Karen. Muslims in the United States: The State of Research. ISBN: 978-0801473324.
Takeaways
- The Juma Mosque, built in 1606, is both a religious and political landmark in Delhi.
- It has been a center for Muslim communal prayers and has influenced political discourse.
- The mosque remains a controversial site amid claims regarding its history and usage of the land.
- Understanding the mosque’s history offers deeper insights into India’s complex inter-religious relationships.
Conclusion
The Juma Mosque stands as a testament to Mughal architectural genius and the nuanced interplay between religious and political spheres. Its rich history, combined with contemporary disputes, continues to make it a significant study for anyone interested in Islamic and Indian history.
By embedding the Juma Mosque into the broader academic and historical context, this entry sheds light on its multifaceted importance, ensuring a comprehensive understanding for readers.
