Multiculturalism In The Heart Of Bangkok | Ramadan In Asia | CNA Insider

Summary

Located by the Jaa River in Bangkok, the Haron Muslim Community and Masid Harun mosque hold cultural and historical significance. Founded in 1828 by an Indonesian merchant, it became the first mosque in Thailand to offer English sermons during Friday prayers. The mosque embraces interfaith traditions, especially during Ramadan, when it opens its doors to both Muslims and non-Muslims for breaking the fast. The community reflects Bangkok's diverse past as a hub of foreign trade, fostering harmony among different religious groups in the area, including Buddhists, Hindus, and Catholics.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Masid Harun mosque, located near the Jaa River in Bangkok, was founded in 1828 by an Indonesian merchant with Hadrami ancestry.
• 😀 The mosque is a significant place of worship for both local and expatriate Muslims in Bangkok.
• 😀 The Masid Harun is one of the first mosques in Thailand to offer Friday sermons in English.
• 😀 The mosque is known for its rich Indonesian cultural influences, including unique Arabic calligraphy carved in wood.
• 😀 During Ramadan, the mosque opens its doors to both Muslims and non-Muslims for Iftar (the breaking of the fast) after sunset.
• 😀 The tradition of providing Iftar meals during Ramadan has been embraced by the local community for decades.
• 😀 The Harun community is known for its cultural diversity and openness, reflecting Bangkok’s history as a gateway for foreign trade.
• 😀 Islam is a minority religion in Thailand, but Muslims in Bangkok have coexisted peacefully with other faiths for centuries.
• 😀 The Masid Harun is located near various other religious sites, including a Hindu temple and a Buddhist temple, highlighting the area's multicultural nature.
• 😀 In addition to religious ceremonies, the mosque hosts interfaith programs and welcomes visitors who want to learn more about Islam and the Muslim community.

Q & A

What is the Masjid Harun and where is it located?

Masjid Harun is a mosque located near the banks of the Jaa River in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. It serves the local Muslim community and is a historic site with significant cultural and religious importance.

Who founded the Masjid Harun and when?

The Masjid Harun was founded in 1828 by an Indonesian merchant with Hadrami ancestry from Kalimantan. He later became the community's first Imam.

What unique architectural feature can be found in the Masjid Harun?

The interiors of the Masjid Harun are decorated with Arabic calligraphy carved in wood, using a unique style of writing with both hands, reflecting its Indonesian cultural heritage.

What makes the Masjid Harun notable in Thailand?

Masjid Harun is one of the first mosques in Thailand to offer public sermons in English, particularly during Friday prayers, making it a popular place of worship for Muslim expats in Bangkok.

How does the Masjid Harun contribute during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, the Masjid Harun opens its doors to both Muslims and non-Muslims for the Iftar (breaking of the fast) after sunset. This tradition has been maintained for decades and involves a community feast.

What is the significance of breaking the fast at Masjid Harun?

The breaking of the fast at Masjid Harun is a significant event for the local community, marked by a large feast with no shortage of food and helping hands. It reflects the community's values of openness and generosity.

How has the Masjid Harun embraced cultural diversity?

Masjid Harun reflects its culturally diverse past by welcoming people from various backgrounds, offering English-language sermons, and hosting interfaith programs with other religious communities.

How does the Masjid Harun fit into the broader history of Bangkok?

The Masjid Harun has long been a part of Bangkok’s river gateway, which facilitated foreign trade and cultural exchanges. The mosque continues this legacy by connecting with a diverse population and participating in cultural dialogue.

How do Muslims in Bangkok live in harmony with other religious groups?

Muslims in Bangkok have lived peacefully with other faiths for centuries. The city is home to various religious sites such as Hindu temples, Buddhist temples, and Catholic communities, and people coexist as neighbors and friends.

What role does Masjid Harun play in interfaith dialogue?

Masjid Harun has hosted interfaith programs and opened its doors to visitors interested in learning more about Islam and the Muslim community, fostering understanding and cooperation between different religious groups.