"Role of Masjid in Islamic society":
The word " Mosque" denotes a Muslim house of worship. The word evolved from the Arabic term masjid, which means "place of prostration ". During prayer, Muslims briefly kneel and a touch their forehead to the ground as a sign of submission to the will of Allah SWT.
The Masjid is seen as an information center for Political, social cultural and ritual life. Besides the azan , or the call for prayer, all important news is announced in the Masjid. The Azan is both an indication of the time of prayer and a method of drawing people's attention to the important issues of the day.
Mosques are the heart of the Islamic life. They serve for prayers, for events during Islam's holiest month Ramadan as centers, for education and information places for social welfare, and also for dispute settlement .
Roles and responsibilities of the mosque:
In addition, to being places of worship in Islam, mosques also serves as location for funeral services and funeral prayers, marriages( nikkah), vigils during Ramadan, business agreements, collection and distribution of alms, and homeless shelters.
Important Masjid in Islam:
Both Sunni Muslims and Shia Muslims agree in the three holiest sites in Islam being, respectively, the Masjid al- Harram ( including the Kaaba paak) , in Makkah; Al Masjid an- Nabawi in Madina and Al Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.
Role of mosques in Islamic Education:
Mosques are often the first place where individuals, especially children, get Islamic religious education. They learn about spiritual teachings, moral values, and worship practices. This helped form the basis of their spiritual understanding and identity.
Mosques have historically played a central and multifaceted role in Islamic education. Beyond being places of worship, mosques have served as centers of learning, community development, and moral instruction. Here's a breakdown of the key roles mosques play in Islamic education:
1. Primary Centers of Learning in Early Islam
In the early Islamic period, mosques were the first schools (madrasahs).
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself taught companions in Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah.
Subjects taught included Qur’an, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic law), Arabic, and theology.
Informal learning circles (ḥalaqāt) were common, where scholars taught groups of students.
2. Teaching of the Qur’an
Mosques are foundational in Qur’anic education:
Tajwīd (rules of recitation)
Ḥifẓ (memorization)
Tafsīr (interpretation)
Many children begin their religious education by learning the Qur’an in mosques.
3. Promotion of Islamic Values and Morals
Imams and scholars use Friday sermons (khuṭbah) and daily lectures to teach Islamic ethics.
Lessons focus on personal behavior, social responsibility, and spiritual development.
4. Centers for Religious Dialogue and Debates
Historically, mosques hosted intellectual debates on theology and law.
They were places where scholars and students gathered to discuss and refine religious thought.
5. Access to Religious Scholars
Mosques provide access to qualified teachers and scholars for the community.
This allows laypeople to ask questions, seek guidance, and learn from experts.
6. Facilitating Lifelong Learning
Islamic education in mosques isn’t limited to children:
Adult classes
Marriage and parenting workshops
Lectures on contemporary Islamic issues
This promotes ongoing education and spiritual growth.
7. Nurturing Community Identity
Mosques serve as cultural and educational hubs that preserve Islamic identity.They provide a space where Muslims can learn and practice their faith collectively.
8. Support for Formal Islamic Schools
Many mosques are connected with madrasahs or Islamic schools, providing facilities, teachers, or curriculum support.
They help bridge informal religious instruction with formal academic setting
Spiritual Education Qur’an recitation, Hadith, Fiqh
Moral Development Teaching Islamic ethics and behavior
Community Engagement Lectures, classes, sermons
Scholarly Exchange Host debates, lectures, study circles
Youth Education Qur’anic schools, weekend programs
Adult Learning Classes and workshops for adult.
Mosques are not just places for ritual prayer, but vital institutions for religious, moral, and intellectual development in Islam. Their role in education continues to evolve, adapting to modern challenges while maintaining their central place in the Islamic tradition of knowledge (‘ilm).
Main Masjid of Muslims:
Makkah, Makkah is considered the holiest city in Islam, as it is home fo Islam's holiest site Kaaba in Al-Masjid Al - Haram . Only muslims are allowed to enter this place.
Role of Masjid committee:
Oversees various aspects of the mosques religious affairs ( education, Zakat, dawah, etc) financial, legal, social youth and women groups public affairs and community outreach. Functions as the link between the mosque and the Muslim community. To consult with the congregation on important matters where necessary.
Leader of the Masjid:
Imam is an Islamic leadership Position. For Sunni Muslims, Imam is most commonly used as the little of a prayer leader of a mosque.
Real name of mosque:
The mosque, masjid in Arabic, is the Muslim gathering place for prayer, Masjid simply means "place of prostration". Through mist if the five daily prayers prescribed in Islam can take place anywhere, all men are required to gather together at the mosques for the Friday noon prayer.
Importances of Islamic religion:
- Profession of faith ( shahada) . The belief that " there is no God but God, and Muhammad SAW is the messenger of Allah SWT" is central of Islam.
- Prayer ( salat). Muslims pray facing Makkah give times a day: at dawn, noon ,mid- afternoon, sunset and after dark.
- Alms( Zakat).
- Fasting ( sawm).
- Pilgrimage ( Hajj).
Benefits of Masjid in Islam:
Offering prayers five times a day is obligatory for Muslim and thus act is abundantly rewarded id offered in congregation. A Masjid is that centre that brings everyone together to worship together and thank Allah SWT for all the blessings.
In Islam, a masjid (mosque) holds a central and deeply spiritual role in the life of a Muslim. Its benefits are numerous—both on an individual and communal level. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits of a masjid in Islam:
1. Place of Worship & obedience to Allah:
The primary function of a masjid is as a place for performing Salah (prayers) and engaging in the worship of Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"The most beloved places to Allah are the mosques."
— (Sahih Muslim)
2. Community & Brotherhood
Masjids foster a strong sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims.
Regular congregational prayers bring people together, creating bonds of love, support, and compassion.
3. Center for Learning & Education
Masjids serve as centers for Islamic learning, offering classes in Qur’an, Hadith, Arabic, and Islamic studies.
In the time of the Prophet ﷺ, the Masjid al-Nabawi was not just a place of worship, but a university of sorts for the companions.
4. Spiritual Rewards & Blessings
Great rewards are promised for attending the masjid:
"Whoever goes to the mosque in the morning or evening, Allah prepares for him a place in Paradise for every morning and evening."
— (Bukhari & Muslim)
5. Strengthening Faith (Iman)
Being in the masjid encourages taqwa (God-consciousness) and helps Muslims avoid sinful behavior.
It renews a believer’s connection to Allah regularly.
6. Dawah and Guidance
Masjids are often the first place a non-Muslim visits to learn about Islam.
They serve as hubs for dawah activities, providing guidance and answering questions.
7. Peace and Mental Well-being
The peaceful environment of a masjid provides a refuge from worldly stress, offering mental and spiritual comfort.
8. Raising the Next Generation
Many masjids host programs for youth education and development, helping shape the future of the Muslim community with strong morals and identity.
9. Charity and Social Services
Masjids often collect and distribute zakat and sadaqah, and help the poor, needy, and oppressed.
They may offer food, shelter, and support during crises.
10. Legacy and Sadaqah Jariyah (Ongoing Charity)
Building or supporting a masjid is a form of sadaqah jariyah:
"Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise."
— (Bukhari & Muslim)
What role do the local mosque and it's Imam play in Islamic communities:
Our mosques are, and should be the heartbeat of our communities and so we must ensure our hearts are functioning correctly. The Arabic term expresses the role of standing at the front denoting the Imam's position not just in prayer but in all aspects of community life.
Types of Masjid:
Two main types of mosques can be distinguished: the Masjid Jani, or "collective mosque, a large state controlled mosque that is the center or community worship and the site of Friday prayer services; and smaller mosques operated privately by various groups withing society.
Role of Masjid in al-Islam:
The Masjid is where teachers give instruction in the Quran Kareem and Sunnah, and where the scholars id knowledge gather. This, Abu Huraira said to a people in the market place, " you are here while the inheritance of the Messenger of Allah is being divided up in the Masjid "
How to respect the Masjid:
Clothing should cover the body according to Islamic guidelines, avoiding anything that may be distracting or inappropriate. Silence and decorum must be maintained in prayer halls, classrooms and other prayers related areas.
Value of Masjid:
The first pillar of Islam is the shahada ( declaration of faith) followed by the second pillar of Islam which is establishing the five daily prayers. This shows how important the daily prayers are and therefore how establishing masajid is from the top priorities in Islam.
Important facts about mosques:
The Arabic word for mosque is "masjid" and it means place of prostration " to Allah SWT. The first ever mosque was a 7th century house with a large courtyard and long rooms in Madina Saudia Arabia. It was the Prophet's Muhammad SAW home. In the UK, there are 1500 mosques and 2.5 million Muslims.
Why is the great mosque important to Muslim:
The great mosque is the main setting for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages that occur in the mother of Dhul Hujja in the Islamic calendar and at any time of the year, respectively. The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the who can afford the trip.
Can you enter a mosque without a hijab:
Both men and women are required to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Women should also cover their heads with a scarf. If your clothing does not meet these standards, wraps and scarves are provided at the entrance. This dress code is enforced to respect the mosques sanctity and Islamic traditions.
Important Masjid in Islam:
- Masjid Al- Haram( Makkah)
- Masjid Nabawi( Madina)
- Creation of the Masjid Nabawi
- Blessing if visiting the Prophet's mosque.
- Prophet's mosque importance in Hadith.
- Masjid Aqsa ( Jerusalem).
- Importance in the Quran Kareem.
- The first Qiblah of Muslims.
Value of Masjid:
The first pillar of Islam is tha shahada ( declaration of faith) followed by the second pillar of Islam which is establishing the five daily prayers. This shows how important the daily prayers are and therefore how establishing masajid is from.the top priorities In Islam.
Benefits of building a mosque in Islam:
- A place for the remembrance of Allah.
- A place to seek knowledge.
- Sadaqah ( ongoing Charity).
- Allah SWT will build a house for you in Jannah.
- Dawah- Masjid is a community huh hence it helps in spreading the word of Allah SWT.
More than a house of worship, the mosque has a critical and authoritative role in the cultural and political life of Muslims, with immediate social implications.
The word Mosque - Masjid in Arabic- is derived from the root word sajada or Sujud, meaning to prostrate , which is normally viewed as worship. Worship in Islam is upholding and implementing the revealed law of Allah SWT - the Shariah. This implementation of the Shariah is not a matter of choice, but of enforcement on ourself and others, be it willingly or unwillingly.
The mosque as the gathering place:
A commonly used term for the mosque is the Arabic word, Jamaa, derived from a root word meaning to gather or gathering. It is a place where Muslims gather, since a mosque's role is that of a centre of authority for the Muslim community , which guides and instructs them in their religious as well as the temporal duties and obligations and directs their relationships with their environment as per the revealed law of Islam.
Different kinds of Mosques:
All mosques are not equal in status, variations occur, not only in theological or doctrinal differences , but even within the same school, mosques vary in their importance. These distinction were introduces by Muhammad SAW, when he stated that a prayer performed in the sacred. Mosque, the Kaaba in Makkah , is equivalent to one hundred thousand performed elsewhere. He went on to say that a prayer performed in his mosque in Madina is equivalent to one thousand prayed elsewhere, and one performed in the Al- Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem is worth five hundred performed elsewhere.
On this and other complicated factors, Muslims have build a hierarchy of Mosques. So two mosques in Cairo, a few miles apart, will differ in their religious importance. A prayer is said in Miser Al Gadida is worth much less than if it was performed in the mosque of Amer ibn Alas. Likewise, the mosque of Sayida Zainab, near Damascus in Syria , is of more important than a mosque two streets away.
It is not necessary for a mosque to be particularly ancient to be more important. The calculation of it's importance ja based on manu factors, both religious and political, including the content of it's preaching and teaching, as well as what and whom it houses. If the Jamat Tablighi was to move it houses. If the Jamat Tablighi was to move it's national and international headquarters from Pakistan, then whenever it was based, be it in London, Paris or elsewhere - that mosque would have both religious and political significance throughout the Islamic world. This is because of the pietistic fame if that mosque's founders and it's members, achieved by being a radical Islamic missionary training and sending agency, it's emphasis on austere living and it's ideological and theological purity of seventh century Islam.
Functions and roles of the mosque:
Every mosque I designed to model attempts to be modelled on the first mosque built and directed by Muhammad SAW in Madina. The functions of a mosque cannot be understood without considering the first mosque and it's role and rule in the first Muslim community.
When Muhammad SAW emigrate from Makkah to Madina, the majority of its inhabitants we're not Muslims. It has a large Jewish population , Christians and large majority of pagan Arabs , Muhammad SAW built hua own house, to demonstrate it's important. As the Shariah unfolded in Madina, the mosque was to become not only a building where religious teachings were taught, but much more.
- It was the first madrassa (Islamic seminary) where Islamic doctrine was taught and whereby the companions were raised and instructed by Muhammad SAW.
- It was the pulpit from which spiritual admonitions were given, along with encouragement to resist the non- Islamic influence through jihad.
- It was here that jihad operations were discussed, directed and it's commanders appointed both by Muhammad SAW and hua successors after his death.
- It was here that jihad was proclaimed and the Muslim armies were sent to conquer the world.
- It was in this mosque that Muhammad's companions were recognized and honoured for their achievements and eliminate all opposition.
- It was from here that official Islamic delegations were sent both by Muhammad SAW and hua successors.
- It was where the delegations and the representatives of the tribes were received.
- It was here that the pledges of loyalty is the Arab tribes to Muhammad SAW and to Islam were received.
- It was where the affairs of the Islamic state were conducted and as such at the time, the head quarter's of the first Islamic state.
- It was here that the contracts, pacts and treaties were commissioned.
- It was here that the Islamic shariah unfolded where the bonding and losing, permitting and forbidding were declared.
- It was here the supremacy of man over a woman and inequality among people was taught.
- It was here that death sentences were issued to those who had opposed Muhammad SAW or had spoken of him unfavourably and from here the ardent soldiers set off to implement these death sentences.
- It was in this mosque that those culprits who eliminated Muhammad's enemies were highly praised and honoured by their Prophet Muhammad SAW.
The contemporary mosque and it's role:
All Muslims are under obligation and required to emulate Muhammad SAW in word and deed. For this is a divine decree and an indispensable doctrinal pillar of Islam. Muhammad SAW spent 13 of total of 23 years of his mission in Makkah. During these 13 years, he never built a mosque or described any of it's functions. Although prayer is mentioned in the Makkah section of the Quran Kareem, there was no Islamic form of prayer in Makkah as we know it today. This came in Madina . Naturally, the question arises: how and where did the early Muslim community pray during the first 13 years of Islam.
Muslims know very little, if anything, regarding the status of a mosque during the Islamic formative period in Makkah, for this remains shrouded in secrecy. Muslim scholars have attempted to explain away the absence of a mosque in Makkah during the early Islamic period by saying that the Kaaba paak was the mosque but, as it was under the control of pagan Arabs, Muhammad SAW and his companions could not pray there until it was purged and purified from all the idols in and around it. This required political power that ye did not have then, neither has The military force required to subdue the pagans. So in the view of Muslim scholars,the Makkah mosque has to come in stages, the revelations in Madina, the building of the first mosque there, obtaining political power through military then conquering Makkah.
The very first mosque in Madina was first and foremost a political: it serves a combined function as a socio- religious and socio - political outlet. Based on the pattern set by Muhammad SAW in his very first mosque, a modern Muay model itself on that of Madina.
Examples for History:
Hence ,besides the normal socio-religious and socio - educational functions of a mosque, we consider the mosque in it's political role. Here are some examples from history of what Islamic scholar have said regarding a mosque's political role.
Transjordan: In 1936, the Kasim revolution was inaugurated in Al Istiqlal mosque in Palestine. It was in this mosque that all their secret organization and all it's various committees were houses.
West bank and Gaza: It was the .mosque that played the most major role in whipping up the first and the second preachers of tha Al aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, had a central role in inciting jihad against Jews and the state of Israel.
Political role of the Mosque, according to the Shariah:
Regarding the mosque and it's political role, a fatwa - an Islamic juristic decree issues by shiekh Yusuf Al Qaradawi on October 29, 2001 states:
In the life of the Prophet Muhammad SAW there was no distinction between what the people call sacred and secular or religion and politics, and he had no place other than the mosque die politics and other related issues. So that we would establish this precedent for his religion and for the world.
The mosque at the time of the Prophet was his propagation centre the headquarters of the state, as it was for his successors, the rightly guided Khalifas, the mosque was their base for all their activities political as well as non- political. Politics as a science is one of the best disciplines, and as a practice and career it's the most honourable. The surprising thing is that it's the politicians, who are totally immersed in it form.fhe top of their heads fo the sole of their feet, that are enquiring if the mosque should embark and leap into political affairs. Politics in itself is neither vice, nor evil in itself, according to Islam. As Muslims it is part of our religion, for it is doctrine and worship. A system for the whole of life ..... And the mission of the mosques as required by correct Islam Islam I not an isolation from the politics in this sense, but the mosque is to command the Muslims on all that would produce good in their religion and works and thought the mosque the people learn the truth and goodness. The mosque must then have a role in guiding the nation and informing her about the critical issues and making her see her enemies. From ancient times the mosque has had role in jihad for the sake of Allah SWT, resisting the enemies of this religion from the invading occupiers. They blessed intifada in the land of the prophets, Palestine, started down none other but the mosques and it's first call came from the minarets and it was first known as the mosque revolution.
Significance about the role of Masjid in Islamic society:
The masjid (mosque) holds deep religious, spiritual, social, and cultural significance in Islamic society. Its importance goes far beyond being a mere place of worship. Here's a breakdown of its key roles:
1. Center of Worship
The masjid is foremost a place where Muslims gather to perform the five daily prayers (Salat), especially the Friday congregational prayer (Jumu'ah).
It serves as a sacred space where individuals reconnect with Allah through prayer, Qur'an recitation, dhikr (remembrance of God), and supplication (du'a).
2. Community Hub
Historically, especially during the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the masjid was the center of the Muslim community.
It functioned as a space for communal discussions, conflict resolution, and decisions regarding society.
It fosters brotherhood and unity, bringing together people from all walks of life.
3. Center for Education
Masjids have traditionally been centers for religious and secular education.
They host Qur’an classes, lectures, and Islamic study circles.
In early Islamic history, many major Islamic universities evolved from masjids (e.g., Al-Azhar in Cairo).
4. Symbol of Islamic Identity
Masjids symbolize the presence and visibility of Islam in a community.
They help reinforce moral values and Islamic culture, particularly in non-Muslim-majority societies.
5. Place of Social welfare
Masjids often function as centers of charity: collecting and distributing zakat (obligatory charity), sadaqah (voluntary charity), and organizing support for the poor and needy.
They may also offer counseling services, marriage ceremonies (nikah), funeral prayers (janazah), and more.
6. Political and Strategic Role (Historically)
During the Prophet’s time, the masjid was a place for military planning, consultation (shura), and dissemination of political announcements.
It was also where ambassadors and tribal leaders were received.
Just like every other religion Muslims also have their place of worship which is called Mosque. According to the latest research 2 billion of the world's population is Muslim and Islam is the second largest religion in the world. As the number of Muslims ja very high the number of mosques is also very high because it is the common place for Muslims where they can pray freely, and spend their time in religious activities.
A mosque is a place of worship where Muslims offer their five time prayers, do zikr and gather in large numbers at special events. The mosque is an essential part of the Islamic community and playa a crucial role in uniting Muslims and keeping them close to Islam.
History of mosque:
The importance of a mosque can also be understood that when the Holy Prophet Muhammad SAW migrates form Makkah to Madina and stayed in Qubuh he built a mosque there, the name of that mosque is Masjid e Quba. It was the first ever mosque built in the history of Islam.
When the Prophet Muhammad SAW reaches Madina he laid the foundation of another mosque called masjid e Nabawi which is now the second most visited mosque in the world. The mosque not only served as a place I'd worship for Muslims but also as a place of guidance. The holy prophet Muhammad SAW used to sit there and spend his time there worshipping Allah SWT. Muhammad SAW also used fo solve the religious matters of Muslims in masjid e Nabawi.
Thus, mosques are a place of honor and possess great importance in the Muslim community.
The reasons why mosques are given so much importance in Muslim community are explained below.
Role in Islamic Education:
Mosques ara not only a place of worshipping Allah SWT. It also serves as an education center for Muslims. They get to learn every minor detail about Islam and it's teachings. Many mosques have teachers who tech the Quran Kareem to Muslims. They teach translation, Tajweed and the recitation id the Quran Kareem , other than several social matters are discussed under the light is Islamic teachings which help Muslims lead their lives according to Islamic principles.
Place of worship:
Muslims are obligated to pray five times a day. Mosques are the place where the Muslims gather and perform their obligatory prayers. They can perform their obligatory and supererogatory prayer there. Additionally mosques are a peaceful space for Muslims where they can worship Allah SWT and indulge in spirituality.
The Quran Kareem says about mosque.
" And ( he revealed) that the. Mosques are for the mosques are for Allah SWT, so do not invoke with Allah SWT anyone."
Community gatherings:
The Muslims gather in mosques in larger numbers not only for obligatory prayers but also to celebrate other religious events . Friday, sermons, Eid gatherings and other congregational prayers and done in mosques. These gatherings strengthen the bond of Muslims and develop a sense of brotherhood and unity making them a strong community.
Social services and charitable work:
Mosques frequently Carry out charitable work, distributing Zakat and setting up food drives for the less fortunate. Additionally they might assist those who are struggling financially, upholding the Islamic principle of helping the poor.
A place of guidance:
Mosque Imam's and other religious authorities crucial in advising and counseling people around them. They provide religious counseling, spiritual guidance, and support during difficult times. Mosques are secure locations where people can seek direction and comfort without any fear of being judged.
Virtues and rewards connected with mosques:
Mosques are a peaceful place for Muslims where they can freely practice their religion. This place has a lot of virtues connected with it which are:
Mosques are the places that are liked by the Allah SWT. This also means that the person who spent their time in mosques praying and worshipping Allah SWT are also liked by Allah SWT. What could be better then you are sitting in a place and spending your time there in remembrance of Allah SWT and in return getting unlimited blessings and rewards from Allah SWT. Hazrat Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
" The places that are dearest to Allah SWT are the mosque and the places that are most hateful to Allah SWT and the markets."
Those who are connected with the mosques, and pray their five times prayers there with the congregation are the people who will get the mercy and pleasure of Allah SWT. Mosques are the beloved places where Muslims are the beloved places where Muslims come to pray, those who help in building the mosques will get numerous rewards in this life and also on the day of judgement. Usman. Ibn Affan reported that the messenger of Allah SWT, said:
"Whoever builds a mosque for him a house like it in paradise."
Building a mosque is also Sadaqah e Jariah (A charity whose rewards are continued even if the person dies). The Holy Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
" When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah or knowledge from which benefit is gained, or a righteous child who pray for him".
Conclusion:
The masjid is not just a place of prayer—it's a lifeline of the Islamic community, playing vital roles in faith, education, social justice, unity, and cultural preservation. Its centrality in a Muslim's life reflects the holistic nature of Islam, where the spiritual and social are deeply intertwined.
Mosques are the holy places where Muslims gather to pray and strengthen their bond with Allah SWT. It is the most peaceful place where the only objective is to remember Allah SWT and his blessings. Mosques serve as a centre of education and guidance for Muslims and bring them closer to the religion and the teachings of Islam.