Islamic Museum Site Visit [27/9/2013]

It is a great exploring the Islamic Museum in Kuala Lumpur that we never been to there. The models of different dynasty mosque had caught my attention on the detailing and the architecture of each building. Is worth to have a visit to the museum to learn what is Islamic all about. 

7.Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

7.Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

The 7 Principles of Islamic Architecture:

1. Architecture as Tawhid: Unity & Uniquity of Allah

2. Architecture of Ihtiram: Respect

3. Architecture with Ikhlas: Sincerity

4. Architecture as Pursuit of ‘Ilm: Knowledge

5. Architecture for Iqtisad: Balance

6. Architecture of Haya’: Modesty

7. Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

7.Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

Remembrance within architecture may be represented through the harmony of monotonous spaces repetition of various features that offer rhythmic precision this factor signifies a sense of 'chanting' like a continuous representation of God's innumerable attributes. This can be seen through the use of rows of arch's which is a technique that quite normally seen within Islamic architecture.

Architecture of monotony building pillar upon pillar, arcade upon arcade rhythmic precision mirrored in the contemplative chanting of God’s innumerable attributes / zikr

The Rhythmic precision mirrored in the contemplative chanting of God’s innumerable attributes and the Manifestation of contemplation maintains a sense of unity through rhythm seen as the eternal and infinite nature of God’s essence. "lt has a portico of surpassing beauty...like the soul of a believer, immersed in the

remembrance of God..."

The inscription remind the prayer about the importance of God.

 

6.Architecture of Haya: Modesty

6.Architecture of Haya: Modesty

The 7 Principles of Islamic Architecture:

1. Architecture as Tawhid: Unity & Uniquity of Allah

2. Architecture of Ihtiram: Respect

3. Architecture with Ikhlas: Sincerity

4. Architecture as Pursuit of ‘Ilm: Knowledge

5. Architecture for Iqtisad: Balance

6. Architecture of Haya’: Modesty

7. Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

6.Architecture of Haya: Modesty

A Muslims preserves his / her dignity by having a sense of humility. From an architectural perspective, this is best shown by shielding activities happening within from public view. this refers to spaces that offer a sense of privacy whether through screening or separation of spaces, this may also be linked to climatic control where screens are used for shading from sun hence a sense of coverage. 

Preservation of dignity: screen, sanctuary, privacy eg. Veil/Hijab of Muslim women-articulation of Islamic life and space Adoption of veil to as acceptance of Muslim woman of what she can control in front of strangers;humbling herself & God Manifestation her belief to Allah Veil as sanctuary/sacred space freely express herself eg.Wall of Mosque Salamlek & Haramlek woman quarters at home. Veil as guard, covering, screen to gain respect, privacy & identity.

Female prayer must show modesty by wearing tudung.

5.Architecture as Iqtisad: Balance

5.Architecture as Iqtisad: Balance

The 7 Principles of Islamic Architecture:

1. Architecture as Tawhid: Unity & Uniquity of Allah

2. Architecture of Ihtiram: Respect

3. Architecture with Ikhlas: Sincerity

4. Architecture as Pursuit of ‘Ilm: Knowledge

5. Architecture for Iqtisad: Balance

6. Architecture of Haya’: Modesty

7. Architecture as Dikr: Remembrance

4.Architecture for Iqtisad: Balance

The act of achieving balance within spaces - functional and spiritual balance. In terms of using factors such as spatial proportions (scale) , textures, materials and lighting. it is also an understanding of nature and its portrayal within spaces and so forth - floral motifs.

In terms of design, this Islamic principles refers to the rule of the Golden Ratio. The golden ratio can be found in abundance in nature around us, created by Allah S.W.T. The golden ratio, when used in design, creates a perfect balance which is naturally pleasing to one's eye. As such, the key of the integration of the architecture of 'Iqtisad' is to implement the golden ratio when designing a building.

The proportion and balance of a building or a mosque could also clearly be seen through some cross sections and also the iwan/door, one of the main features of an islamic architecture.