Social Role of Mosque in Islam

Author: Muhammad Abbas Shad,

Islam is a religion that discusses an individual and society at

the same time. This creates a profound relationship between

religion and society. Without society, religion converts into a

hypothetical philosophy, while without religion; society is

unable to develop a system of sustainable welfare and

progress for human beings. Hence, Islam introduces the

concept of institutional development for social

advancement. Mosque holds a central place among the

institutions developed by Islam. It is an extremely effective

organ to establish a link between an individual and society

and also for the rectification and reformation of society.

Quran states: “First holy place for the rectification and

guidance of people is established in Makkah. Objective of

this place is improvement and progress of whole

mankind.”(Surah e AAL-E-IMRAN).

Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said: “It is

compulsory for you to maintain your relation with collectivism

(instead of individualism), masses (common people) and

mosque.” (Masnad Ahmed). Institution of mosques for an

Islamic society was initiated at Quba and then extended at

Madinah. Later on, it became the biggest and the most

organized network of the world. Islam gives prime importance

to discipline and rule of law in human society. These attributes

can only flourish in the presence of a central place.

Through the institution of mosques, Islam develops

centralization in the society. It invites its believers toward unity

by stating: “Tightly hold the rope of Allah (Quran and Sunnah)

and do not indulge in sectarianism and division.” (Surah e

Aal-e-Imran). If you are divided due to conflict then “You will

become coward and your reputation and confidence will be

shattered.” (Surah e AlAnfaal). Thus, in order to keep harmony

in the society, mosque enjoys the status of a central social

institution. Historical role of Masjid-e-Nabvi in this context

guides us that mosque became the religious, educational,

military and cultural centre of Muslims. Prophet Muhammad

(Peace be Upon Him) and his team of companions preferred

the sacred environment of mosque to perform numerous

activities pertaining to human life. These activities included

organizational structuring to confront the prevailing

exploitative system, performing daily prayers collectively,

consultation on important affairs, oath taking to follow the

rules of Allah, preparation of Jihad,accommodation of poor

and weak people of society, meetings and agreements with

different delegations, judicial decisions, planning of welfare

projects, distribution of funds, acquiring of management skills

and adaptation of organizational discipline, spiritual

practices, insightful sermons and a struggle to establish justice

and fairness in the society. In short, during the early era of

Islam, mosque played the role of parliament, university,

military camp, court of justice, medical facility, centre of

preaching and publication and institution of social welfare

simultaneously.

If we observe the condition and functionality of mosques

nowadays, we come across the ironic reality that mosque

which used to hold a primitive place in the overall social

system of Muslims has become a hostage to sectarian

conflicts. On the collective level, we have neglected the true

role of mosques which is to instill peace and harmony among

human beings living in a society. Today, there is a dire need

to restore the comprehensive role of mosques in our society.In

every department of social life, there is a tough criterion for

the appointment of administrators. Similarly, the merit and

criterion to appoint mosque management committee,

teachers, Imams and speakers should be revised and these

appointments must be according to the noble role of a

mosque in Muslim society