The Oldest Mosque in Alor (Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah)

Traces of Islamic Propagation in the Kenari Islands: The History of Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah

Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument that records the early days of Islam's arrival in Alor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Located in Lerabaing Village, Southwest Alor District, this mosque holds the distinction of being the oldest mosque in Alor. Its existence is authentic proof of the strong historical ties between the sultanates in the Nusantara archipelago and the communities in eastern Indonesia.

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Origin and Period of Establishment

The history of Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah is rooted in the 16th century, specifically around the year 1522. Based on oral traditions passed down through generations and historical relics, this mosque was founded by an Islamic preacher named Sultan Gogo from Ternate, North Maluku. Sultan Gogo's arrival in Alor was not only for trade but also for a peaceful mission of da'wah (Islamic propagation).

At that time, the Alor region was led by King Baololong I. Sultan Gogo's presence was welcomed with open arms, which subsequently led to Islam being accepted as the official religion within the kingdom. The construction of this mosque marked the initial milestone of socio-religious transformation in the Lerabaing area, which was then a center of power and the gateway for external influences into Alor Island.

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Traditional Architecture and Construction Details

Architecturally, Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah reflects a blend of Alor's local style with the simple yet meaningful influence of Nusantara Islamic architecture. The original structure of this mosque used materials sourced entirely from the surrounding nature. Its primary uniqueness lies in the use of very strong forest woods, such as teak and sandalwood, which are said to not decay despite being hundreds of years old.

The mosque's roof was initially a tiered (meru) style made ofalang-alang (tall grass), reflecting adaptation to the tropical climate and local aesthetics. One of the most iconic elements is the four main supporting pillars (saka guru). These pillars not only function as structural supports but also symbolize the four companions of Prophet Muhammad SAW. The wood joining techniques of that era did not use iron nails but rather a precise wooden peg system, demonstrating the sophistication of 16th-century traditional craftsmanship.

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Historical Significance and Important Events

Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah holds immeasurable historical value as it houses one of the most sacred artifacts in Alor: the oldest Quran in Southeast Asia, made from tree bark. This Quran was brought directly by Sultan Gogo and is still well-preserved within the mosque complex. This holy book is handwritten on bark paper with natural ink, whose color is still clearly visible today.

For centuries, this mosque has been a silent witness to various historical events, from the golden age of local kingdoms to the periods of Dutch and Portuguese colonial occupation. When the surrounding Alor region experienced conflicts or external pressures, this mosque often served as a spiritual fortress and a gathering place for traditional leaders to make important decisions for the safety of the residents.

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Figures and Historical Correlations

Besides Sultan Gogo, King Baololong I is a key figure in the history of this mosque. Through his policies, Islam was able to develop harmoniously without eradicating existing traditional customs. The relationship between Ternate (as the center of Islamic power in the east) and Alor was closely intertwined through this mosque, making Lerabaing an important point in the spice trade routes and the spread of religion.

Ancient manuscripts mention that the construction of this mosque was also assisted by five brothers from Ternate who accompanied Sultan Gogo on his journey. They settled in Alor, and their descendants still play important roles as mosque caretakers (Marbot) and guardians of the bark Quran for generations, maintaining an unbroken lineage for five centuries.

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Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

As a Cultural Heritage Site, Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah has undergone several renovations to maintain its sturdiness. Although its walls have now received permanent treatment (masonry), the basic structure and qibla orientation have been preserved as originally built. The Alor Regency government, along with the Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation (BPCB), continues to strive for conservation, especially for the heritage items within it.

One of the biggest challenges in preservation is protecting the bark Quran from humidity. Currently, this historical artifact is stored in a special glass case with controlled temperature settings, but it can still be viewed by tourists or researchers who visit with special permission from local traditional leaders.

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Cultural and Religious Significance

For the people of Lerabaing and Alor in general, Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah is a symbol of identity. The existence of this mosque proves that Islam in NTT has very deep roots and has always coexisted peacefully with followers of other religions. In local traditions, there are specific customary ceremonies held within the mosque complex, especially during the commemoration of Islamic holidays such as the Prophet's Birthday or Eid al-Fitr.

This mosque also serves as a center for traditional religious learning where the values of tolerance and brotherhood, "Piring Makan Satu" (a philosophy of harmony in Alor), are continuously taught. Its unique history attracts many historical researchers, archaeologists, and religious tourists from around the world who wish to witness firsthand the early traces of Islamic civilization at the eastern tip of the archipelago.

In conclusion, Masjid Jami Babshul Hikmah is not just an old building standing on the coast of Alor. It is a narrative of courage, faith, and cultural acculturation. Protecting this mosque means safeguarding the nation's collective memory of the historical diversity that shapes Indonesia today. Through its old wooden pillars and the pages of its bark Quran, we are reminded that history is the best teacher for the future.