Cheraman Juma Masjid: India’s Oldest Mosque with a Timeless Legacy

The Historical Significance of Cheraman Juma Masjid,India’s Oldest Mosque

When Allah wills to guide a heart, even the oceans cannot keep His light away. In the peaceful town of Kodungallur, Kerala, shines the Cheraman Juma Masjid — a house of Allah built in 629 CE, carrying the honor of being the first masjid in India. Its story is not just of architecture, but of guidance — of a king, Cheraman Perumal, whose heart was opened to Islam by the mercy of Allah, leading him to lay the foundations of a legacy that would welcome generations of believers to come.

The story of Cheraman Juma Masjid

Nestled in the town of Kodungallur, Kerala, the Cheraman Juma Masjid stands as a testament to the deep historical and cultural connections between the early Islamic world and the Indian subcontinent. Built in 629 CE, this mosque holds the distinction of being the oldest mosque in India and one of the earliest mosques in the world. The mosque’s history is intertwined with a legendary tale of the Chera dynasty king, Cheraman Perumal, whose remarkable vision led to the mosque’s creation.

Though it is sometimes claimed to be the second mosque where Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers were first offered, historical records suggest that the Jawatha Mosque in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, holds that honor. However, Cheraman Juma Masjid remains a cornerstone of India’s rich Islamic heritage and an architectural wonder in its own right.

The King’s Vision and the Birth of Islam in India

The story of the Cheraman Juma Masjid begins with the Chera dynasty king, Cheraman Perumal. According to legend, the king witnessed the miraculous splitting of the moon, an event associated with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Confused and seeking answers, the king consulted Arab merchants who had arrived at Muziris Port, Kerala’s ancient trade hub.

The merchants explained the event as a sign of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Inspired, King Cheraman Perumal traveled to Makkah, where he embraced Islam and took the name Tajuddin. Tragically, he passed away in Oman while returning to his kingdom, but before his death, he instructed his companions to spread the teachings of Islam in his homeland. This marked the beginning of Islam’s presence in India.

Malik Ibn Dinar and the Mosque’s Construction

After the king’s passing, the responsibility of spreading Islam in Kerala fell to Malik Ibn Dinar, a companion of the Prophet ﷺ. Malik Ibn Dinar and his followers traveled to Kodungallur and built the Cheraman Juma Masjid on land given by the local rulers. This mosque became the first Islamic structure in India, symbolizing the arrival of Islamic teachings to the subcontinent. The mosque not only served as a place of worship but also as a beacon of the peaceful spread of Islam through trade and dialogue rather than conquest.

Architecture: A Blend of Local Tradition and Islamic Design

One of the most striking features of Cheraman Juma Masjid is its unique architectural style. Unlike the more familiar Islamic structures with domes and minarets, the mosque incorporates elements of Kerala’s traditional temple architecture. The building features a wooden structure, tiled roof, and intricate carvings, offering a distinctive aesthetic that blends Hindu temple designs with Islamic architecture.

This fusion is a powerful reflection of cultural harmony and the interfaith dialogue that has always been a part of Kerala’s rich history. The mosque is an embodiment of how Islamic architecture adapted to the local environment, symbolizing peaceful coexistence.

The Eternal Lamp: A Symbol of Kerala’s Unity

Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of the Cheraman Juma Masjid is its eternal oil lamp, which has been burning continuously for over 1,000 years. This lamp has become a symbol of unity and communal harmony, as it is maintained not just by Muslims, but also by people from different faiths, including Hindus and Christians. The act of contributing oil to keep the lamp burning is a tradition that underscores the shared values of respect, mutual aid, and coexistence in the region.

Preservation and Heritage

Over the centuries, Cheraman Juma Masjid has undergone numerous renovations, but efforts have been made to preserve its original wooden structure and historical significance. The mosque is now part of the Muziris Heritage Project, an initiative to conserve the historic Muziris region and its ancient landmarks, including the mosque. These efforts ensure that the mosque continues to stand as a beacon of India’s rich cultural and Islamic history for generations to come.

Visiting Cheraman Juma Masjid

The Cheraman Juma Masjid remains an active mosque where Muslims gather for daily prayers and Jumu‘ah on Fridays. It has become a popular pilgrimage site, drawing visitors from across the world who are interested in exploring its deep historical roots and experiencing the serenity of its sacred atmosphere.

Location:
The mosque is located in Kodungallur, approximately 40 km from Kochi, Kerala. It is easily accessible by road.

Timings:
The mosque is open daily to visitors, with Jumu‘ah prayers held every Friday. Visitors are encouraged to explore the mosque and learn about its history.