Kobe Mosque

Coordinates: 34°41′46″N 135°11′16″E / 34.69611°N 135.18778°E / 34.69611; 135.18778
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Kobe Mosque
神戸モスク
Religion
AffiliationIslam
Location
Location2-25-14 Nakayamate Dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Postal Code: 650-0004
Kobe Mosque is located in Hyōgo Prefecture
Kobe Mosque
Shown within Hyōgo Prefecture
Geographic coordinates34°41′46″N 135°11′16″E / 34.69611°N 135.18778°E / 34.69611; 135.18778
Architecture
Architect(s)Jan Josef Švagr
Typemosque
Completed1935
Monument(s)2

Kobe Masjid (神戸モスク, Kōbe Mosuku), also known as Kobe Muslim Masjid (神戸ムスリムモスク, Kōbe Musurimu Mosuku), was founded in October 1935 in Kobe and is Japan's first masjid.[1] It is situated in the Hyōgo Prefecture city of Kobe. Established in October 1935, it holds historical significance as a symbol of the early presence of Islam in Japan.[2] Its construction was funded by donations collected by the Islamic Committee of Kobe from 1928 until its opening in 1935.[3] The mosque was confiscated by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1943. However, it continues to function as a mosque today. It is located in the Kitano-cho foreign district of Kobe. Despite being confiscated by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1943, the mosque persisted and remains functional to this day. Remarkably, it endured the devastation caused by air raids in 1945 and withstood the Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995.[4] The mosque is located in one of Kobe's best-known tourist areas, which features many old western style buildings.

The Kobe Mosque continues to be a significant religious and cultural landmark, attracting visitors to one of Kobe's well-known tourist areas, characterised by its many historic Western-style buildings. The mosque was built in traditional Indo-Islamic style by the Czech architect Jan Josef Švagr (1885–1969), the architect of a number of Western religious buildings throughout Japan. In recent years, there are more than 110 mosques in Japan.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, the mosque serves as a focal point for Japan's Muslim community. Over the years, it has become one of more than 113 mosques across Japan,[5] contributing to the country's diverse religious landscape. The Kobe Mosque stands as a symbol of the enduring presence of Islam in Japan and the importance of religious pluralism in Japanese society.

History[edit]

The Kobe Mosque's construction, initiated by the Islamic Committee of Kobe in 1928, overcame financial and logistical hurdles, driven by the unwavering determination of Kobe's Muslim community. Confiscated by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1943 during World War II, its restoration efforts epitomized resilience amidst wartime adversities, highlighting the community's commitment to their faith. Surviving the 1945 air raids largely unscathed, the Kobe Mosque emerged as a symbol of hope amidst devastation, showcasing its cultural and historical significance.[6] Similarly, during the Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995, though damaged, the mosque stood as a pillar of strength, continuing to serve as a vital center for worship, community, and resilience for Kobe's Muslim community and beyond.[7]

Architecture[edit]

The Kobe Mosque, Japan's first mosque, boasts a robust architectural design that enabled its survival through significant historical events. Despite being repurposed by the Japanese military during World War II, the mosque endured bombings and served as a refuge for displaced families during the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995.

Constructed in 1935, the mosque's reinforced concrete structure withstood the test of time and calamities. Its architectural style is a fusion of traditional Asian-Turkish influences, evident in its elaborate decorations and ornate design elements. Designed by renowned architect Jan Josef Švagr, the mosque features intricate patterns, domes, and minarets, symbolizing the cultural exchange between Japan and the Islamic world.[8]

Located at 2 Nakayamate Douri, Chuo-Ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, the mosque spans three levels above ground and one underground level. Its roofing comprises a combination of flat roofs and domes with wooden structures and copper roofing. The walls are finished with exposed-aggregate, adding to the mosque's aesthetic appeal.[9]

Constructed by the reputable Takenaka Corporation,[10] the Kobe Mosque stands as a testament to architectural resilience and cultural significance, serving as a vital religious and community center in Kobe's urban landscape.

Significance[edit]

The Kobe Mosque, Japan's oldest surviving Muslim place of worship, holds profound significance as a symbol of religious diversity and tolerance. Despite the challenges faced during its construction and subsequent history, the mosque has remained resilient. Its endurance through these trials has earned it the moniker of the 'Miracle Mosque,' a testament to its remarkable survival amidst adversity.[11] The mosque's intricate geometric patterns, soaring minarets, and Turkish-influenced interiors reflect its historical and architectural significance.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Kobe Mosque serves as a vital center for worship, community, and cultural exchange. It provides sanctuary for Kobe's Muslim community and welcomes visitors of all faiths, promoting understanding and dialogue. As Japan's first mosque, it holds a unique place in the hearts of the faithful and continues to inspire generations with its rich history and enduring spirit of unity and tolerance.

Community impact[edit]

The Kobe Mosque stands as a vibrant center for the local Muslim community in Kobe, Japan. Apart from being a place for worship, it serves as a hub for fostering fellowship and facilitating educational opportunities. The mosque actively participates in various outreach programs and cultural events, reaching out to engage with the broader community.[12] Through initiatives such as interfaith dialogues, language classes, and community service projects, it promotes understanding and collaboration among people of different cultural and religious backgrounds.

Moreover, the presence of the Kobe Mosque contributes significantly to the multicultural identity of Kobe. It serves as a symbol of diversity and inclusivity, bringing together individuals from various cultural and religious backgrounds.[13] By providing a space for dialogue and interaction, the mosque facilitates the building of connections and mutual respect among the city's diverse population.

Overall, the Kobe Mosque plays a crucial role in enhancing social cohesion and harmony within Kobe, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among its residents. Its inclusive approach and commitment to community engagement make it an integral part of Kobe's cultural landscape.

Tourism and outreach[edit]

As one of Kobe's prominent landmarks, the Kobe Mosque attracts visitors from around the world, offering guided tours and educational programs to promote understanding of Islam and Islamic culture.[14] The mosque's outreach efforts extend beyond tourism, encompassing interfaith dialogue, educational partnerships, and social outreach initiatives. By opening its doors to the public, the mosque strives to build bridges of understanding and tolerance in an increasingly interconnected world.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ Penn, M. "Islam in Japan," Harvard Asia Quarterly Archived 2007-02-02 at the Wayback Machine Vol. 10, No. 1, Winter 2006., retrieved February 26, 2007
  2. ^ Ajar, Seno Budhi (2023-10-13). "The Impact of Historic Mosque Tourism Development on the Conservation of Historical Mosque Buildings in Japan and Indonesia". Migration Letters. 20 (7): 952–968. doi:10.59670/ml.v20i7.4612 (inactive 2024-04-23). ISSN 1741-8992.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of April 2024 (link)
  3. ^ Agakhan third was a major contributor and then East Pakistan Prime Minister met Emperor of Japan to discuss the building of a mosque and Emperor was gracious enough to offer a land for its construction.Kobe Mosque Official Website Archived 2007-01-20 at the Wayback Machine - "History", retrieved February 26, 2007
  4. ^ Gunardi, Yudhi; Barliana, M. Syaom (2021-06-29). "Disaster Response Mosque: A Mosque as a Center for the Rescue of the Ummah". Journal of Development and Integrated Engineering. 1 (1): 43–54. doi:10.17509/jodie.v1i1.35853. ISSN 2798-2165.
  5. ^ "Japan home to a growing Muslim presence as it embraces change | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis". The Asahi Shimbun. Retrieved 2024-03-31.
  6. ^ "Retro Japan: Mosque in Kobe serves as spiritual center, symbol of multicultural coexistence". Mainichi Daily News. 2024-03-29. Retrieved 2024-03-31.
  7. ^ Kotani, Hitomu; Okai, Hirofumi; Tamura, Mari (2023-12-01). "Activities and roles of mosques in Japan after the recent major earthquakes: A comprehensive study". Progress in Disaster Science. 20: 100297. Bibcode:2023PrDS...2000297K. doi:10.1016/j.pdisas.2023.100297. ISSN 2590-0617.
  8. ^ Acri, Andrea; Ghani, Kashshaf; Jha, Murari K.; Mukherjee, Sraman (2019-10-23). Imagining Asia(s): Networks, Actors, Sites. ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute. ISBN 978-981-4818-86-5.
  9. ^ "Al Fozan". mosqpedia.org. Retrieved 2024-03-31.
  10. ^ "Islam in Japan: First Muslims and first mosque". AMUST. 2023-04-24. Retrieved 2024-03-31.
  11. ^ Alfarra, Jehan Alfarra (November 28, 2020). "Discover Kobe Mosque, Japan".
  12. ^ Yulita, Irma; Ong, Susy (2019-11-19). The Changing of Image of Islam in Japan: The Role of Civil Society in Disseminating Informations about Islam. doi:10.4108/eai.24-10-2018.2289662. ISBN 978-1-63190-205-5.
  13. ^ Kotani, Hitomu; Okai, Hirofumi; Tamura, Mari (2023-12-01). "Activities and roles of mosques in Japan after the recent major earthquakes: A comprehensive study". Progress in Disaster Science. 20: 100297. Bibcode:2023PrDS...2000297K. doi:10.1016/j.pdisas.2023.100297. ISSN 2590-0617.
  14. ^ read.dukeupress.edu https://read.dukeupress.edu/journal-of-asian-studies/article-abstract/72/3/611/324636/Forgotten-Futures-Indian-Muslims-in-the-Trans. Retrieved 2024-03-31. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)

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