INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA — Every year, there are always extraordinary moments that occur when Eid al-Fitr arrives. One of the heartwarming stories that captivated the Dai Ambassador of Dompet Dhuafa is about a mosque in Incheon, South Korea, that gained remarkable attention due to its unique way of celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Al-Anwar Mosque—a small landmark located in an area predominantly inhabited by non-Muslims—has a unique story. The mosque building is surrounded by churches, often presenting an interesting sight during special moments.
One morning, on a joyous Eid al-Fitr day, as the sun began to shine brightly, Muslims in Incheon prepared to celebrate their spiritual victory after a month of meaningful Ramadan. However, what happened at Al-Anwar Mosque this year was truly extraordinary. Ustaz Ihya Ulumudin, the Dai Ambassador of Dompet Dhuafa who was on duty in South Korea during this Ramadan, had the opportunity to embark on a dakwah safari in the Land of Ginseng, eventually becoming the imam and khatib for the Eid al-Fitr prayer at Al-Anwar Mosque, Incheon, South Korea.
Dialogue and discussion among the administrators regarding the implementation of this year’s Eid al-Fitr prayer brought about evaluations and new ideas that were also deliberated with Ustaz Ihya. This involved considering the benefits and potential harms of the prayer’s execution. After receiving input from various parties, there will be new technical implementations for the Eid al-Fitr 1445 H prayer.
As before, the mosque administrators have decided that this Eid al-Fitr prayer will be conducted using two areas: the main mosque hall and the rooftop. Importantly, they will continue to use the church’s original podium as the place for the khutbah. This decision not only signifies the spirit of inclusivity and interfaith harmony but also serves a practical purpose, as the mosque’s interior space is insufficient to accommodate the increasing number of congregants attending the mosque.
On the morning of Eid al-Fitr, the congregation arrived earlier than usual. They filled the main mosque hall, packing the space densely. However, when the khutbah began, the extraordinary turnout drew even more attention. Despite the main hall already being full, worshippers continued to arrive, not wanting to miss this sacred moment. As the main hall filled up, congregants began climbing the stairs to the mosque’s rooftop to perform the Eid prayer. Even the rooftop became crowded with worshippers. Yet, the spirit of unity in worship remained strong.
With warmth and extraordinary enthusiasm, the congregants, who were mostly Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI), came from various regions to unite in performing the Eid al-Fitr prayer. The sounds of takbir echoed, creating an exceptional spiritual atmosphere.
Eid al-Fitr at Al-Anwar Mosque in Incheon during 1445 H presented an interesting sight rarely seen in Indonesia: the congregation overflowing onto the rooftop. As Muslims performed their prayers and listened to the sermon, they watched via streaming monitors connected directly to the main hall below. While listening to the sermon, they were also greeted by the majestic sight of church crosses clearly visible around Al-Anwar Mosque.
The story of Al-Anwar Mosque in Incheon on Eid al-Fitr 1445 H is not just about religious celebration but also about unity, inclusivity, tolerance, and the spirit of brotherhood that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. It is a testament that in hearts filled with sincerity, there is no room for differences to separate us.
Eid al-Fitr 1445 H | Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Ustaz Ihya Ulumudin, Dai Ambassador of Dompet Dhuafa 2024
Editor: Ronna