A Journey to the City of Bassein, Pakistan’s Intellectual Capital
The name of Masjid Raya is used for the biggest mosque in Aceh, West Sumatra. The name was selected by the founder of Islam, Hajjaj ul-Tawhid. He made this mosque in honor of his beloved wife. In recent times, the name of Masjid Raya became “Raya” for the sake of convenience. But in Aceh, it is still known as Masjid Raya Mahi-ud-din. This article tells how the name of the mosque came to be.
The Baiturrahman Masjid is situated at the centre of Banda Aceh, West Sumatra. The name of the said mosque was taken from “Baska Raya”, which means the” mosque of Hajjaj”. Baska Raya was built by Hajjaj’s son, Ustad Muhammad Baig. The latter had several other names such as Baska Muhammed Baig, Baska Muhammad Raya and Baska Muhammad Shahid.
When Baska Muhammad Shahid established the Baska Muhammad Raya Pakistan in Aceh, the name of the new mosque was changed to Masjid Raya in honor of its founder. Baska Muhammad Shahid died in 18 Lumpur in an epidemic. His son, Taher Muzhman, and two other sons took over the leadership of the Baska Muhammad Raya Pakistan. The three became the father and founder of the famous Baska Raya, which translates into “the strong fortress”.
If you are planning to go to West Sumatra and Banda Aceh on your next trip, you will definitely want to visit the Masjid Raya. You will be greeted by the master bell of the Raya, who is known to be Majlis Saleem. All Muslims are known to visit the Raya no matter where their origin is.
The Raya’s prayer request to Allahu Alaykum Dahi Wa Alamin is then followed by reciting the famous poem, ‘Kutub al-sakhrah’. This is followed by the Recitation of the Islamic Azadi, ‘Rasool Allahu Alaytan’. Then, the prayer for ‘Aabida Rabbih’ is performed. Lastly, the customary Ghazal is performed. The best of West and South Sumatra is then followed by the traditional ‘mudarikharan’ of Banda Aceh.
The famous masjid area baiturrahman banda aceh is conducted within the secured premises which has the most beautifully landscaped gardens. There are a swimming pool and an indoor swimming pool. The garden buildings are tastefully designed and the interior of the building is spacious. This gives you a comfortable and peaceful environment during your stay.
You can opt for the taman versu strict time with the masjid some in close proximity. The entrance is through a gate which is fenced with iron bars. The beberapa is adorned with a tall minaret, which has its own minarets as well. There are also a swimming pool and the bathing area is also quite large.
Another famous landmark is the pelataran masjid located at the centre of the town with its three minarets and the main gate is decorated with a brass plaque. The name of the guru who established this school is inscribed on the wall. It is recommended for those learning the religion to visit this masjid. You will find the local students reciting mantras here before entering the schools.
