CONCEPTON AND PERCEPTION OF THE MOSQUE IN THE WEST

Abstract

There currently exists the dilemma of the minimal role of the mosque in the life of the community in Islamic societies at large. The reduction of the role of the mosque in the lives of community members has many ramifications, including the fragmentation of the community and the loss of Islam as a communal religion - one that is sought daily and not just on special occasions. Historically, the 'golden age' oflslam was witness to the important and central role of the mosque in the lives of all community members. It served to unity them in all activities including religious, social and commercial.

There exists a plausible contemporary manifestation of such a relationship between the mosque and community. This exists in the many diaspora communities of Muslims in the West. Their existence as a minority in the context of the overwhelming influence of Westernization has resulted in the acute awareness of their identity as based on their religion and beliefs. Awareness and consciousness are the first steps to actualising mosque space and mosque architecture with relevant and contemporary meaning.

The argument of the thesis thus predicates itself on the analysis of the mosque in the West, using specific case studies and using a three-step method to break down the workings of each mosque. The three-step analysis includes the understanding of the types of decisions made that determine much to follow, the messages expressed and the impressions made on all members of the community.

The thesis will begin with a succinct introduction of the related background issues. This will then be followed by a chapter on the classification system of mosques chosen. The three step analysis will form the back-bone of the thesis, with a chapter dedicated to each. In the decisions chapter the issues of financing, individuals, building Jaws and context will be addressed. In the messages chapter the roles of architectural idiom, activities and symbols and text will be addressed.