INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA — Amidst the bustling city of Incheon, South Korea, there is a mosque that has become a centre of religious and cultural activities for the local Muslim community. Al-Anwar Mosque is not only a place of worship, but also a place where Islamic arts and culture flourish. One of the traditions that is passionately preserved in this mosque is the art of Hadrah Rebana.
Hadrah Rebana, a traditional art originating from Indonesia, has found its place in a land far from its origin. Preserved in Al-Anwar Mosque, this art is not only a means of entertainment, but also a means of introducing the richness of Islamic culture to the people of South Korea.
Hadrah Rebana itself is a musical art that is usually played at Islamic religious events. Such as weddings, hauls, or commemorations of Islamic holidays. The main instrument in Hadrah Rebana is the tambourine, a traditional musical instrument made of wood and goatskin. Coupled with a melodious choir and distinctive dance moves, Hadrah Rebana creates a solemn and mesmerising atmosphere for its audience.
Muslim youths in the Al-Anwar Incheon Mosque area learnt to play the tambourine and sing religious songs in the Hadrah Rebana tradition. They not only learnt about the technique of playing the instrument and singing, but also understood the meaning and values contained in each song they performed. This is a form of their efforts to strengthen their Islamic identity and deepen their understanding of Islamic religion and culture.
With the preservation of Hadrah Rebana art in Al-Anwar Mosque, there is an opportunity to expand the understanding of Islam and Indonesian culture in South Korea. Through art, the messages of beauty, peace, and brotherhood contained in Islam can be conveyed more widely and deeply to the people of South Korea.
As a form of harmony between Indonesian and South Korean traditions, Hadrah Rebana at Al-Anwar Mosque is a clear example of how art and culture can be a bridge that connects various communities and brings peace and a deeper understanding of life values.
Friday, 15 March 2024
H. Ihya Ulumudin, Dompet Dhuafa’s Dai Ambassador