South Africa – Within the confines of South Africa’s borders, a peaceful coexistence prevails among diverse individuals, cultures, and religions. While all faiths are highly respected, Islam occupies a significant position.
With a history spanning nearly three centuries, South African Muslims have played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s societal fabric. They have left their mark on national cuisines, cultural heritage, and even language, so much so that early Afrikaans writings were penned in Arabic by Islamic religious leaders (Imams) from Southeast Asia in the Western Cape.
To honour the rich history of Islam in South Africa and promote interfaith understanding, tolerance, and unity, the South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) has initiated an annual event called National Open Mosque Day, coinciding with Heritage Day.
Dr Faisel Suliman, SAMNET’s Chairperson, explained that this event welcomes people from all backgrounds and faiths to visit their local Mosques, aiming to demystify Islam and the Muslim way of life. Furthermore, the event seeks to foster connections, social cohesion, and friendships within the community.
“The main thing has been breaking down some of the stereotypes. Getting people who are residents around the Mosque to come and visit, have a look inside and ask us questions. It’s Islam 101, and we did not intend it to be a day for talking about politics, especially not religious politics.”
The Purpose of the Event
Open Mosque Day has consistently emphasised the importance of interfaith dialogue and harmony. This event provides a unique platform for individuals to come together and mutually enrich their understanding.
As articulated by Dr. Suliman, this year’s theme is “Each One, Bring One.” This concept entails that every Muslim participant should invite someone from a different faith background or social group to join them.
Beyond facilitating interfaith interactions, Dr Suliman has highlighted one of the event’s principal objectives is to dispel stereotypes and misconceptions about Islam and Muslims. In a world where misinformation and prejudice often sow division, Open Mosque Day holds significant value by enabling people to engage directly with Muslims from their communities.
Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with Muslims, inquire about their faith, and delve into the teachings and traditions of Islam. Furthermore, they will witness the peaceful and inclusive atmosphere within the Mosques and the Muslim community.
“Watching salaah is one part [of the event]. The other is meeting Muslims on social and non-formal occasions. Seeing Muslims as not the other but human beings with the same concerns and worries. Having the same thoughts that you may have.”
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Mosques Central Hubs for Communal Activities
In South Africa, Mosques serve a broader purpose beyond being places of worship. They function as focal points and community centres, holding a pivotal role in the lives of residents.
These Mosques offer a range of social services to the community, including food and clothing distribution programs, charitable initiatives, and, more recently, serving as vital hubs for water collection when the water supply was disrupted.
According to Dr Suliman, Mosques have been central in food distribution and have been viewed as places of safety by residents during times of turmoil, such as the July Riots and flooding in KwaZulu Natal.
“From a religious perspective, this serving humanity is something that is stressed in both the Quran and [teachings] of the Prophet (Peace be upon him). It’s our duty, and we shouldn’t wait for these crises to break down barriers [between people].”
Due to the significant roles Mosques have played during various crises experienced by South Africans, Dr Suliman believes that through their activities, Mosques have played a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and building strong relationships with communities and their members.
