Masjid Keramat Pelajau

Traces of Islamic Civilization in Hulu Sungai Tengah: The History of Masjid Keramat Pelajau

Masjid Keramat Pelajau is more than just a place of worship for the people of Hulu Sungai Tengah Regency, South Kalimantan. It is a living monument, a silent witness to the historical struggles of Islamic propagation on Borneo, which has stood for centuries. Located in Pelajau Village, Pandawan District, this mosque holds the status of one of the oldest historical sites and a spiritual center for the Banjar community in the "Hulu Sungai" region.

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Origin and Period of Establishment

Historically, Masjid Keramat Pelajau is believed to have been founded in the 13th century, around the 1300s AD. This date places Masjid Pelajau as one of the oldest mosques in South Kalimantan, even predating the establishment of the Banjar Sultanate centered in the estuary. Its construction is closely linked to the transitional period from local beliefs and Hindu-Buddhist influences towards Islam.

The name "Pelajau" itself refers to the location where this mosque stands. The prefix "Keramat" (sacred) is not without reason. The local community bestows this title due to various inexplicable events that often occur around this site, and as a form of respect for the sanctity of the location, which is considered the starting point for the spread of Islam in the Barabai area and its surroundings.

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Traditional Architecture and Construction Details

Masjid Keramat Pelajau exhibits a strong Banjar vernacular architectural style, yet possesses its own uniqueness compared to other ancient mosques in South Kalimantan. Its main structure is dominated by the use of ulin wood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), or ironwood, known for its resistance to extreme weather and termite attacks for hundreds of years.

One of the most prominent features is its tiered roof (tumpang/meru). This three-tiered roof shape is a cultural acculturation, where pre-Islamic (Hindu) architectural influences are adapted into Islamic values. The highest roof symbolizes "Iman" (faith), the middle section "Islam", and the bottom part "Ihsan" (excellence). The apex of the roof is adorned with a mustaka, indicating its religious building identity.

The initial construction of this building did not use iron nails, but rather wooden pegs. The main supporting pillars (soko guru) inside the mosque still maintain their original positions, offering a glimpse into the advanced carpentry skills of the Banjar people in the past. Additionally, there are distinctive floral motifs carved on the pulpit and pillars, reflecting local wisdom in blending art and religion.

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Historical Significance and Important Events

This mosque played a strategic role in the historical map of South Kalimantan. During the Dutch colonial era, Masjid Keramat Pelajau served not only as a place of prayer but also as a coordination center for the Barabai people's struggle. Freedom fighters often used this mosque as a gathering place to strategize guerrilla warfare against colonialism.

The "keramat" (sacred) value attached to this mosque is also based on the fact that the building has often survived natural disasters and attempts at destruction. In the collective memory of the residents, there was a major fire in the surrounding settlement, but the flames seemed to "leap over" this mosque, leaving it intact. Such events have strengthened the sacredness of Masjid Pelajau in the eyes of the people of South Kalimantan.

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Figures and Leadership Periods

The construction and development of Masjid Keramat Pelajau are inseparable from the roles of local scholars and adat (traditional custom) leaders. Although written records of the first founder's name are very scarce, oral tradition mentions that the mosque was founded by preachers who came from outside Kalimantan and assimilated with local figures.

One of the most respected figures whose name is often associated with the maintenance of this site is Datu Pelajau. He is considered a waliyullah (saint) who spread Islamic teachings with a gentle approach, respecting local customs and traditions. The graves of these religious figures are usually located not far from the mosque complex, making it a popular religious tourism destination visited by pilgrims, especially during certain Hijri months.

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Preservation and Restoration Efforts

As a Cultural Heritage Site, Masjid Keramat Pelajau is under government protection through the Center for Cultural Preservation. Given its age of hundreds of years, the mosque has undergone several renovations. However, the primary principle of restoration has been to maintain the authenticity of the wooden structure and the original building form.

A major restoration was carried out to repair the decaying roof and strengthen the foundation without altering its ancient aesthetics. The community of Pelajau Village also plays an active role in maintaining the cleanliness and security of the mosque. They consider maintaining the mosque as part of safeguarding the trust of their ancestors.

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Cultural and Religious Meaning in the Modern Era

To this day, Masjid Keramat Pelajau continues to function as a jami' (main) mosque for the local residents. On every Islamic holiday, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the mosque overflows with worshippers from various parts of Hulu Sungai Tengah. There is a belief among the community that performing worship in this mosque brings a unique inner peace due to the historical value and spirituality that permeates every corner of its structure.

Furthermore, the existence of this mosque serves as an object of study for historians and architects who wish to learn about the evolution of Islamic buildings in the Nusantara. This mosque proves that Islam entered the interior of Kalimantan not through coercion, but through a harmonious process of cultural adaptation, clearly reflected in the still-sturdy structure standing in Pelajau Village to this day.

Masjid Keramat Pelajau is an identity for the people of Hulu Sungai Tengah. It is a symbol of steadfast faith, the beauty of local art, and the spirit of resistance against colonialism, making it one of the priceless historical gems in South Kalimantan.