Masjid Jami Al-Ikhlas (Golden Dome Mosque)

The Splendor of Dian Al-Mahri Mosque Architecture: A Spiritual and Material Icon in Depok

Masjid Jami Al-Ikhlas, more widely known by the public as Masjid Kubah Emas or Masjid Dian Al-Mahri, is one of the most striking contemporary Islamic architectural masterpieces in Indonesia. Located in Cinere, Depok, West Java, this mosque complex is not merely a place of worship, but a symbol of spiritual dedication combined with unparalleled material luxury in Southeast Asia.

#

Historical Context and Development Vision

The construction of this mosque was initiated by Hj. Dian Djuriah Maimun Al Rashid, a businesswoman from Banten, who purchased a 50-hectare plot of land in Depok to realize her vision of building a magnificent "House of God." Construction began in 2001 and was completed at the end of 2006. The mosque was inaugurated on December 31, 2006, coinciding with Eid al-Adha.

The philosophy behind its construction is the belief that if human homes can be built beautifully, then the house of God should be far more beautiful and grand. The official name "Al-Ikhlas" reflects the founder's sincere intention, while the popular name "Kubah Emas" (Golden Dome) stems from its most dominant and iconic architectural feature.

#

Architectural Style and Design Principles

Architecturally, Masjid Kubah Emas adopts a strong Middle Eastern (Persian and Arab) style, with significant influence from mosque designs in India and Iran. Its design emphasizes perfect symmetry, intricate geometry, and the use of high-class materials.

The main building structure consists of a spacious prayer hall with high ceilings to create natural air circulation and a transcendental impression. Its design principles follow traditional mosque typology with a dominant central dome, but executed on a much grander scale and with more exotic materials than other mosques in West Java.

#

Unique Feature: Five 24-Karat Gold Domes

The most distinguishing feature of this mosque is the presence of five main domes, the entire surfaces of which are covered with pure 24-karat gold mosaic. The number five is not without meaning; it symbolizes the Pillars of Islam.

1. Main Dome: Has a bottom diameter of 16 meters, a middle diameter of 20 meters, and a height of 25 meters. Its shape resembles the dome of the Taj Mahal in India, providing a dramatic silhouette on the Depok skyline.

2. Companion Domes: Four smaller domes surrounding the main dome symbolize balance and harmony.

The gold plating was done using Italian mosaic technology, where thin gold leaf is coated with glass to ensure resistance to Indonesia's extreme tropical weather, thus maintaining its golden luster without frequent manual cleaning.

#

Interior Details and Exotic Materials

Upon entering the mosque, visitors are greeted by a luxury consistent with its exterior. The mosque's interior is dominated by the use of marble imported directly from Italy and Turkey. This marble is installed with high precision, creating clean and cool visual patterns.

In the center of the prayer hall, directly beneath the main dome, hangs a giant crystal chandelier weighing 2.7 tons, imported from Italy. This lamp is arranged in such a way that when lit, its light reflects on the gold ornaments around the ceiling, creating a solemn yet magnificent atmosphere.

The mosque's minbar (pulpit) and mihrab (niche where the imam leads prayer) are also architectural focal points. The mihrab is covered with 18-karat gold and adorned with exquisite calligraphy. The relief above the mihrab is made using intricate handmade techniques, giving a textured depth to the main wall.

#

Structural Innovations and Minarets

The mosque has six hexagonal minarets soaring 40 meters high. The number six symbolizes the Pillars of Faith. These minarets are clad in gray granite imported from Italy, with circular ornamental details at their peaks. At the top of each minaret, there is a small dome also covered in 24-karat gold mosaic, unifying the building's overall aesthetic theme.

The building structure uses reinforced concrete with very deep foundations to support the heavy load of marble and metal domes. The ventilation system is designed passively through high windows and large teak wood doors, allowing air to flow freely even without excessive use of air conditioning in the veranda areas.

#

Cultural and Social Significance

Masjid Dian Al-Mahri has transformed the social and economic landscape in the Cinere area of Depok. From an empty plot of land, the area has transformed into a national religious tourism center. Every weekend, thousands of pilgrims from all over Indonesia come not only to worship but also to admire its architectural marvel.

The existence of this mosque proves that architecture can be a tool for visual da'wah (Islamic propagation). The splendor of gold material is used as a metaphor for the glory of Islam. For the people of Depok, this mosque has become the city's identity and the region's pride, often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Indonesia."

#

Visitor Experience and Current Usage

Currently, Masjid Kubah Emas functions fully as a center for religious activities, including the five daily prayers, Friday prayers, Islamic studies, and celebrations of major holidays. Visitors will experience a very spacious environment. The mosque's large courtyard is planted with date palms and neatly arranged green lawns, providing a visual contrast between natural green colors and the golden sheen of the domes.

The mosque management enforces strict rules regarding dress code and cleanliness to maintain the sanctity and beauty of the building materials. The spacious outer veranda areas are often used by worshipers to rest and enjoy the gentle breeze, while the inner areas remain sterile for those who wish to worship peacefully.

#

Conclusion: An Architectural Legacy

Masjid Jami Al-Ikhlas (Masjid Kubah Emas) is a tangible testament to the fusion of material wealth, civil engineering skill, and spiritual depth. With the use of pure gold as the main decorative element and selected marble from various parts of the world, this building stands as an architectural monument that transcends its function as a place of worship, becoming an artistic heritage that will continue to be admired by future generations in West Java and Indonesia.