The Usefulness of Main Prayer Hall of Masjid Agung Islamic Center of Lhokseumawe, Aceh - Indonesia

Abstract

Spatial design of masjids is typically the result of duplicating or replicating typology considered appropriate by the Muslim community. Often, this approach results in a massive centralized main prayer space that is underutilized and may contradict fundamental Islamic principles derived from the Quran and Hadith (canonical sayings of Prophet Muhammad ) This article attempts to reveal the utilization of the main praying hall at Masjid Agung Islamic Center (MAIC) of Lhokseumawe. Further, this study challenges the MAIC in light of the Islamic principle of 'avoiding exaggeration'. Observation was conducted over 30 days alongside an exploration of values and principles guiding Islamic Architecture according to Quran and Hadith. Findings show the utilization of the main prayer hall of MAIC averaged 3.24% on a daily basis and 3.26% for Shalah (ritual prostration performed five times a day); clearly, a sign of wasted space. Results of this study are expected to stimulate discussion in the area of design and planning of Islamic Architecture toward a wiser design, particularly in Aceh Province of Indonesia.