The Functional Reception of Qur'anic Calligraphy at the Grand Mosque of Nurul Islam, Palangka Raya

Abstract

The Nurul Islam Grand Mosque is the first and oldest grand mosque in Palangka Raya. This mosque has a unique characteristic in that almost the entire interior is adorned with Qur'anic calligraphy, from the walls to the ceiling. This study aims to understand the functional reception of the calligraphy and identify which verses are chosen and the reasons for their selection. The methodology used in this research is descriptive-analytical, utilizing the theory of Qur'anic reception, specifically functional reception. This is a field study with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show that the verses displayed in the Nurul Islam Grand Mosque are those commonly recited and memorized by Muslims in their daily lives, such as QS. Yasin, QS. al-Waqi’ah, QS. al-Mulk, and others. The functional reception of Qur'anic calligraphy is evident in the selection of verses inscribed as calligraphy in the Nurul Islam Grand Mosque. These verses not only serve as decorations but also facilitate visitors who wish to read specific surahs or verses of the Qur'an without having to search within the Qur'an itself. Additionally, the calligraphy gives the Nurul Islam Grand Mosque a distinctive appeal that sets it apart from other mosques. However, on the other hand, there is a critique regarding the difficulty in reading some of the inscriptions, which is a point of feedback received by the Nurul Islam Grand Mosque concerning its calligraphy.

Keywords

• qur'anic calligraphy; nurul islam grand mosque; functional reception.