The Masjid yesterday and today

Abstract

Masjid holds a vital role in the life of all Muslims. Throughout history, Muslim communities have always been attached to the Masjid in some way or the other. It was not restricted to being a place of worship, performing Islamic rituals or a social and political dimension, but more interestingly as symbol of belonging and identity. But is this remain the case, are Muslims today attached to this institution as their predecessor were, what have changed within the role of the mosques in our society. Today, there is a huge difference between the influential and prestigious role that mosques held throughout history and the role it currently undertake. It is sincerely hoped that this paper will be useful for those interested in knowing about the role of the Mosque as an institution, it will try to shed the light on the historical role the mosque institution preformed and its contribution to life. As well, give a general overview on the current statues of mosques. The researcher has quoted numerous verses from the Quran and prophetic sayings on various aspects of the Mosque, to relate its role to the Islamic teachings. While acknowledging the importance of understanding the physical component and structure of the mosque, it is beyond the scope of this work.