The issue of building mosques for certain ethnicities is a common topic of discussion, particularly in diverse societies like the United States where communities often congregate based on national origin. One often sees mosques designated as “Indonesian,” “Egyptian,” or “Sudanese,” leading to questions about whether this divides the Muslim Ummah along nationalistic lines. This article explores the Islamic perspective on ethnic diversity in mosques, the historical context, and the balance between practical convenience and communal unity.
The Principle of Universal Brotherhood
It is a fundamental principle of Islam that no Muslim should ever be prevented from praying at any mosque. The House of Allah is open to all believers regardless of race, ethnicity, color, language, culture, or nationality.
Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an:
“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you…” (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13)
While a mosque may be built with a specific architectural style pertaining to a certain culture, this must never imply that prayer or participation is restricted to Muslims of that ethnicity.
Practicality vs. Division
Scholars explain that the existence of mosques associated with specific nationalities often stems from practical convenience rather than an intent to divide.
- Language: A community may need the Friday sermon (Khutbah) or classes to be delivered in their native tongue to ensure understanding.
- Geography: sometimes the dominant majority of Muslims living in a specific neighborhood belong to a specific ethnicity, naturally influencing the demographic of the local mosque.
If these mosques are organized this way for the convenience of worshippers—without excluding others—then it is permissible. However, if it leads to “borders” where others feel unwelcome, this contradicts the spirit of Islam.
Historical Precedent: Tribal Mosques
There is historical precedent for communities building mosques within their specific localities. During the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), some mosques were built by tribes and named after them.
For example, historical records mention mosques attributed to specific clans in Madinah, such as the Mosque of Bani Sa`idah. These served the local residents of that tribe but remained part of the broader, unified Muslim society under the leadership of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).
Building a Unified Culture in the West
While ethnic mosques have a historical and practical basis, Muslims in North America and the West face a unique opportunity. Composed of diverse ethnicities and cultures, these communities are encouraged to build a new, unified culture based on Islamic principles rather than Old World nationalisms.
The goal should be to move from “co-existence” in separate ethnic enclaves toward true integration, where the bond of faith supersedes the bond of nationality.
