Kyai Gede Grand Mosque

Traces of Islamic Propagation in Waringin Land: History and Grandeur of Masjid Jami Kyai Gede

Masjid Jami Kyai Gede is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument that records the early traces of Islam's arrival in Central Kalimantan. Located in Kotawaringin Hulu Village, Kotawaringin Lama District, Kotawaringin Barat Regency, this mosque stands as a symbol of civilization, da'wah courage, and the harmony of Nusantara architecture. As one of the oldest historical sites (cultural heritage site) in Bumi Tambun Bungai, Masjid Jami Kyai Gede holds a long narrative about the Kotawaringin Sultanate and the significant influence of a scholar from Java.

#

Origin and Periodization of Establishment

The history of Masjid Jami Kyai Gede cannot be separated from the figure of Kyai Gede, a charismatic scholar sent by the Demak Sultanate to the Kalimantan region in the 17th century. Based on oral historical records and local manuscripts, this mosque was founded in 1632 AD (some sources mention around 1675 AD) during the reign of Sultan Mustainu Billah of the Banjar Sultanate, who later gave his blessing for the establishment of the Kotawaringin Sultanate with Pangeran Adipati Antasari (the First Sultan of Kotawaringin) as its ruler.

Kyai Gede, whose original name was a young man from Java but served in Borneo, was sent to spread Islamic teachings and help organize the governance system of the newly formed sultanate. This mosque was built as a center for da'wah, education, and a gathering point for the community in practicing religious law. The name "Kyai Gede" was bestowed as a form of eternal respect to the scholar whose contributions were considered immense to the people of Kotawaringin.

#

Iconic Architecture and Construction Details

One of the most prominent aspects of Masjid Jami Kyai Gede is its architectural style, which reflects cultural acculturation. The building structure is dominated by high-quality ulin wood (ironwood), known for its resistance to extreme weather and its lifespan of hundreds of years.

Visually, the mosque adopts the traditional Javanese-Demak architectural style combined with local Kalimantan wisdom. Its roof is a tiered (tumpang tiga) structure, symbolizing the levels in Islamic teachings: Iman (faith), Islam, and Ihsan (excellence). The construction without iron nails—using wooden pegs instead—demonstrates the sophistication of carpentry techniques at that time.

The interior of the mosque is supported by large, still sturdy ulin wood pillars. Another uniqueness lies in the pulpit, which features distinctive carvings blending Nusantara plant motifs with Middle Eastern styles. The mosque's location on the riverbank also reflects traditional Kalimantan settlement patterns, where rivers were the lifeblood of transportation and socio-economic life.

#

Historical Significance and Important Events

Masjid Jami Kyai Gede served as a silent witness to the transition of local beliefs from animism and dynamism towards Islam. Its existence marked a shift in political power in the region, where Islamic values began to be integrated into the customary law and governance of the Kotawaringin Sultanate.

One of the important events associated with this mosque is its role as a spiritual fortress during the colonial era. The mosque was not only a place for prayer but also a venue for deliberation among fighters and religious leaders in formulating strategies to confront foreign influence. Furthermore, the area around the mosque, including the tomb of Kyai Gede located not far from it, has become a pilgrimage center connecting the people of Central Kalimantan with their historical roots in Java.

#

Figures and the Golden Age of the Sultanate

Kyai Gede himself is the central figure. He was not only a preacher but also a political advisor to the first Sultan of Kotawaringin. His close relationship with the ruler ensured that Islam became the official religion of the sultanate not through violence, but through cultural and educational approaches.

The golden age of this mosque coincided with the peak of the Kotawaringin Sultanate's glory as an important trading port in southern Kalimantan. During this period, the mosque became a magnet for Muslim travelers and traders from various parts of the archipelago, indirectly enriching the cultural insights in Kotawaringin Lama.

#

Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

As a cultural heritage site protected by Law No. 11 of 2010 concerning Cultural Heritage, Masjid Jami Kyai Gede has undergone several stages of restoration. The main challenges in preserving this mosque are the age of the wood and the soil conditions on the riverbank, which are prone to erosion.

The Kotawaringin Barat Regency Government, along with the Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation (BPCB), periodically carries out maintenance without altering the original form of the building. Restoration is done very carefully, especially on the shingle roof and the main supporting pillars. These conservation efforts aim to maintain the authenticity of the ulin wood material, which is the main characteristic of the building. Currently, the mosque remains actively functioning as a place of worship and a leading religious tourism destination in Central Kalimantan.

#

Importance of Culture and Religion for the Community

For the people of Kotawaringin Barat, Masjid Jami Kyai Gede is the "soul" of their identity. Every year, thousands of worshippers fill this mosque on major Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad SAW's birthday. The tradition of pilgrimage to Kyai Gede's tomb, located near the mosque, also becomes a social phenomenon that drives the local economy.

The philosophical values contained within this building teach about steadfastness (symbolized by ulin wood) and obedience to the Creator. The existence of this mosque affirms that Islam in Central Kalimantan grew by respecting local traditions, creating a lasting harmony for modern generations today.

#

Unique Historical Facts

One rarely known unique fact is the existence of an old bedug (large drum) inside the mosque, whose sound in the past was said to be heard in neighboring villages quite far away. Furthermore, the mosque's layout, precisely facing the qibla (direction of prayer), indicates that despite being built in the 17th century with simple tools, its founders possessed a strong understanding of astronomy.

Masjid Jami Kyai Gede continues to stand tall as a symbol of past glory and future hope. It is a heritage that transcends time, reminding every visitor of the greatness of Islamic history in the land of Kalimantan, full of tolerance and high wisdom.