Bayan Beleq Ancient Mosque

Traces of Islam's Dawn in Gumi Gora: History and Architecture of the Bayan Beleq Ancient Mosque

Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument marking the starting point of Islam's spread on Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara. Located in Bayan Village, Bayan District, North Lombok Regency, this mosque stands firmly on a low hill, a silent witness to the spiritual transformation of the Sasak community from local beliefs towards the teachings of monotheism.

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Origins and Historical Periodization

The Bayan Beleq Ancient Mosque is believed to be the oldest mosque on Lombok Island. Based on oral historical records and local lontar manuscripts, the mosque was founded around the 16th century, coinciding with the early wave of Islam brought by missionaries from Java, particularly through trade and da'wah routes associated with Sunan Giri of Gresik.

The key figure often linked to the establishment of this mosque is Syekh Gaos Abdul Razak. He was a propagator of Islam believed to have come from Baghdad, but through a long journey in Java before finally settling in Bayan. The existence of this mosque signifies a shift from the Hindu-Buddhist Kingdom era to the Islamic sultanate era in the region. The name "Beleq" itself in the Sasak language means "Big" or "Main," referring to its status as the central mosque for the early Muslim community in the northern region of Lombok.

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Distinct Architecture and Construction Philosophy

The architecture of the Bayan Beleq Ancient Mosque reflects deep cultural syncretism and high local wisdom. The building does not use cement, concrete, or iron nails, but relies on natural materials available in its surroundings.

1. Foundation and Floor Structure: The mosque stands on a foundation of neatly arranged river stones without chemical adhesives. The floor is hardened earth, giving an impression of humility and humanity's connection to its origins.

2. Gedek Walls: The mosque walls are made of woven bamboo (gedek), which allows for good air circulation. The use of bamboo also symbolizes the flexibility and resilience of the local community against earthquakes that often strike the Rinjani ring area.

3. Tumpang Roof: The roof is in a tumpang (two-tiered) style made from split bamboo (santek). This roof shape bears resemblance to the architecture of ancient mosques in Java, philosophically symbolizing the levels in Islamic teachings: Syariat (Law), Tarekat (Sufi Path), Hakikat (Truth), and Marifat (Gnosis).

4. Saka Guru: Inside, there are four main pillars (saka guru) made of jackfruit wood. Jackfruit wood was chosen for its durability and the philosophy of "nangka" which in the local language is associated with "neighbor" or togetherness.

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Cultural Significance and Historical Events

Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq is more than just a place for the five daily prayers. In the past, this mosque was an integrated center for customary and religious governance. One of the significant historical events associated with this site is the Islamization process of the Sasak people through the "Wetu Telu Islam" method.

Wetu Telu is a syncretic practice that combines Islamic teachings with existing local and Hindu-Javanese traditions. Although today the majority of the Bayan community practices Islam purely (Wetu Lima or Five Times), Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq remains a symbol of respect for ancestors and the long history of belief evolution in Lombok. The mosque is actively used only on specific occasions, such as the Prophet Muhammad SAW's birthday celebration, known as the "Maulid Adat" ritual.

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Sacred Figures and Tombs

Around the mosque complex, there are several ancient tombs highly revered by the local community. These tombs are the final resting places of early Islamic propagators and Bayan customary leaders. Some of them include the Makam Reak, Makam Sesait, and Makam Anyar.

The presence of these tombs reinforces Bayan Mosque's function as a spiritual center. Pilgrims come not only from Lombok but also from outside the island to honor the contributions of the saints who laid the moral and religious foundations in Bayan. Figures such as Penghulu, Raden, and customary kiai still play important roles in preserving the rituals in this area.

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Preservation and Restoration Efforts

As a Cultural Heritage Site protected by law, Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq is managed under strict supervision from the Cultural Heritage Preservation Center. Restoration efforts are carried out very carefully to maintain the authenticity of its materials.

One of the biggest challenges in preserving this site is natural disasters. In 2018, when a devastating earthquake struck Lombok, Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq suffered damage to several parts of its structure. However, thanks to the mutual cooperation of the customary community and government assistance, the mosque was successfully restored using traditional techniques to maintain its original form. The use of natural materials like bamboo and wood requires periodic replacement every few decades, which is done through special customary ceremonies.

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Current Social and Religious Relevance

Today, Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq is a major historical tourist attraction in North Lombok. However, its management continues to prioritize the sacredness of the site. Visitors are required to wear traditional Sasak attire (sapuk and woven cloth) when entering the mosque area as a form of respect for local customs.

The mosque serves as a reminder of the diverse ways Islam entered and was accepted in the Nusantara—not through conquest, but through cultural adaptation and persuasive approaches. Its existence strengthens the identity of the Bayan community as one that holds fast to its traditions without abandoning its religious obligations.

Overall, Masjid Kuno Bayan Beleq is a historical gem that holds narratives of resilience, spirituality, and harmony between humans, nature, and God. It continues to stand tall at the foot of Mount Rinjani, welcoming every dawn with magnificent simplicity, preserving the legacy of the saints for future generations.