INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA — This year’s Ramadan at Al Anwar Mosque, Incheon, South Korea, was heartwarming with a special atmosphere of serenity. This was revealed by Ustaz Ihya Ulumudin, Dompet Dhuafa Ambassador assigned to Japan. He told us about Al Anwar Incheon Mosque, which is surrounded by churches and religious differences.
Located among the towering churches around it, Al Anwar Mosque is a silent witness to interfaith harmony. Especially during the holy month of Ramadan. In this blessed month, Al Anwar Mosque becomes the centre of religious and social activities for the Muslim community in South Korea.
The serene atmosphere deepens as Muslims gather to worship, break their fast together, and share happiness. Despite being located in a neighbourhood flanked by churches, interfaith relations here are close and respectful.
One of the highlights of Ramadan at Al Anwar Mosque is the nightly Tarawih prayer. Although separated by differences in beliefs, local residents, including those who are not Muslim, appreciate and support this religious activity. The atmosphere is even more serene when the sound of the Qur’an fills the mosque. Creating a solemn and peaceful atmosphere.
The uniqueness of Al Anwar Mosque lies not only in its existence as a place of worship, but also in its role as a centre for interfaith dialogue. In the midst of Ramadan, the mosque is often the venue for interfaith dialogue events, opening up space for a better understanding of the diversity and harmony that can exist in South Korea’s multicultural society.
There is also the tradition of breaking the fast together, where Muslims and neighbours from different religious backgrounds come together to share a delicious meal. It is a time when differences in beliefs disappear and brotherhood is prioritised.
Al Anwar Mosque, which stands proudly amidst religious differences, exemplifies how diversity can be a source of strength and unity. This year’s Ramadan was not only a time of worship for Incheon’s Muslims, but also a time of strengthened interfaith unity and tolerance, creating an unforgettable story of peace in the midst of multicultural South Korea.
Sunday, 10 March 2024
Ihya Ulumudin, Dompet Dhuafa’s Dai Ambassador