Mosque Architecture: Formulation of Design Criteria

and Standards in the Context of Bangladesh

Sheikh Muhammad Najrnul Imam

- -

11/:mIIIIIUII/IIiUIIIIIII/:1
1J94979111

Departmeut of Architecture
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (DUET)
Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

September 2000
Mosque Architecture: Formulation of Design Criteria
and Standards in the Context of Bangladesh

Sheikh Muhammad Najmul Imam

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment ofthe requirements for

the degree of Master of Architecture in the Department of Architecture,
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (DUET)

Department of Architecture
Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET)
Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

September 2000
Department of Architecture
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka IDOO, Bangladesh

On this day, 30" of September, Saturday, 2000, Ihe undeTSlgned hercby recommends
\0 the Academic Council that lhe the,is titled, "Mosque Architecture: Fonnulation of
Design Cmefla atld Standard, in the Context of Bangladesh" submitted by Sheikh
Mul1ammad Najmullmam, Roll No_ 9213 P, Session: 1990-'91.'92, is acceptable in
partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree MaSI.' of Architecture.

Thesis Title, "Mosqne Architecture, Formolation of Design Criteria and

Standards in tbe ConteIt of Bangladesh"

PROPOSED BOARD OF EXAMTNERS:

Faruque A. U. Khan
Professor and H.ad
Department of Architecture, BUET
(Thesis Supcrvi,or)

Md. Khairnl Enam

Professor
Department of Architecturc, BUET Member:
100 • ~. 'U»-<M

Dr. Md. ShahiduJ Ameeo

Professor
Department of Architecture, BUET Member: ~-jI o( oYf/'"lJ<v"
) -,
lIr. Roxnna Hartz
Assistant Professor
Department of Urban and Member:
Regionai Planning, BUET (External)
 Abstract: i

Mosque Architecture: Formulation of Design Criteria and

Standards in the context of Bangladesh

Abstract
Mosque, being the center of Islamic spirit and activities, bccomes an edifice of special
sigmficance in the Muslim settlements all over the world. Starting from a simple one
in Medina, in course of modification through time and regions, it has attained a
certain degree of architectural magnificence amI established il~elf as a distinguished
building type.

The first mosque cstablished by the Prophet (S) was intended to abide by the
commamlment of Allah, convey His message to the whole humankind and render
~crviec to the society. This mosque can be characterized as a simple, austere and
strictly functional one. Afterwards, influences from other religiou~ architecture of
mediaeval period led the mosqlle architecture towards monumental and SlJmptuOlJs
structures. This thesis explores, a, one of its objectivc~, to identify the original intent
of a mosque and how it was redefined in course oflime and region.

Thousands of mo,qlJes are ~erving thc Muslim community of Bangladesh. Mo~qucs

of early Islamic period were built under the patronage of rulers and distinguished rich
Muslims. Gradually the common people started to build mosques in their own
initiative. These mosqlJes develop gradually and reflect the desire and demand of the
community. In most of the cases they do not follow any systematic design criteria or
standard in temls of the()logyand practice. Moreover, there are no such authentic and
compiled sources of guidelines or standard~ to be used by the architects. As a re,ult,
there are good number of faulty aspects in different mosques, with respect to shariah
and practical i,sucs.

This thesis focuses on the formulation of design criteria and standards, which can bc
applied for designing mosqlJes in Bangladesh. Obviously, some common and
fundamental aspects may apply universally to any mosque around the globe.

Some criteria, like determination of qihla direction, configurations of spaces,

contiuuation or jama'al in diffcrcm levels, service facilities etc. arc to bc taken into
consideration in design approach. Thcse aspects are directly or indirectly dictated by
shariah.

As a quantitative design tool, architects ~hould follow some design standards.

Determination of capacity, spacing of qatars, ergonomic data for different activities,
requirement of space for different aetivitics, size of ingress and egress, service load -
all these issue, are included for analysi" and propositions.
 Abstract: Ii -'"

A mosque is a unique building type, which requires almost no liturgical support. The
floor is mostly used for salat and other activities. Only little furniture, as for example,
rnlmbar, seats for Wazu, bookshelf, shoebox or rack etc. arc required to be designed.
Standards are formulated for all these liturgical supports.

Environmental aspects are also significant for a mosque. But, an elaborate discussion
on this aspect is selectively kept beyond the scope or this lhesis, as (his field itselr is
very vas! and suitable to be an independent research work. Only some brief
discussions and general propositions arc ineluded for certain environmental issues
important ror mosque design.

There arc many major and minor criteria, which should be considered for designing a
mosque. Bul due the limited scope orthis thesis work, some major issues, particularly
those very significant on spatial aspoxts are covered in this work. Some aspects,
which arc common for any other building type and do not carry extra significance for
a mosque, are kept beyond the scope. It is expected that the architect will be able to
handle those common issues out of his general education and expertise in architecture.

f
 Acknowledgement: iii

Acknowledg_e_m_e_"_' _

Throughout the process of this thesis work, a good nwnber of people lend their
helping hands by providing information, guidance and encouragement. Firstly, I
express my gratitude to Profes,or Faruque A. U. Khan, my Thesis Supervisor and
Head of the Department of Architecture, DUET, for providing guidance and
ill5piration. All my colleagues of the department had been all through vcry kind to
rcnder their cooperation in different way:;. Professor Dr. M. Anwarul Islam, the
Manehcster Mctropolitan University, UK ha:; set a rare example of assistance by
sending a signilieant book on Islamic Architeeturc and his research Paper on Mosque
Architecture.

M. Kamal Abdali, National Science Foundation, USA; Khalid Shawkat, USA; Dr.
Monzur Ahmed, UK and many others were introduced to me through Internet. I
express my heartiest thanks to all of them for providing me infornlatlon and computer
software. It ISworth mentioning here that some of my students and the musallies of
different mosque:; eagerly a,sistet! me in field sludy. They also sbare the credit of
accomplishment of this thesis work.

I acknowledge that some figures and photographs are taken from different books and
mentioned accordingly in relevant places. I would like to convey my tbanks for the
wriler" publisher, and other associates.

For theological support, a good number of scholars of Islamic theology have assisted
earnestly. i express my gratitude for Maolana Ishaq Faridi, Mufti Abdur Rahman,
Mufti Monsurul Haq and many others.

it is vcry difficult to mention everyone who contributed directly or indirectly

throughout my work. Moreover, it is not always worth mentioning the names to
express gratitude. May Allah bless them with appropriate rewards m lhi, world and
hereafler.

Finally, I must say A/-hamdulillah (all praise is for Allah) and express my
appreciation and gratitude for Allah the Almighty, a, He i, the sole source of all
knowledge, energy and enthusiasm.
 Table a/Contents: iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

Abstract I
.".".".".".".".
~.~.~.o.~.le.dgern.e.n.t. ,... ,..".".".....".".". 111
Table of Contents IV
.I,i~t.(If .F.igurc.s. ''''',..."....".".. VI
Prologue IX
fl'i%{l'".~:'k',~,~~"';<),';O::'i1f(i~,~ili,;:~i';";i
;"1i+;':M<N)<':;ii:/',: '<~'%N%mtl;/,,~:it' 'f;w~m~m%.f'i:''
,"~",.".". ;"~-5V:
'7' .f~j,:df~"'">; (~'f:t;%'t.i~ili' :',:"",'l;',"':"i"~;;':.P>;"'w;;:~~lk:~~m%;,'~,%
lPART:,Afu""'" X",V;;<\nf1' ~...~t,;,':"WSm:@l;,il;:::;, 'Y::;>;~;~1i&*"A:',h:~'~",~~~
:~ji,',
~?</~
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Xtit~fifefs,~tv~y;'~~1J"-jficldiStJih/rW!:iA!miji*i¥il1J1g1%:~Jt:f1\8$t:::1.t.';,:",JJ
Chapter ONE 1-1
The Mosque: General Aspects
1.1 Introduction .. .. ..
, , , . ..
"
1-1.
1.2 Word meanillg,~J;l?,p.efinition. 1-1
1.3 Role m Islam.
"." ..".".". ------ .. ---- ---- ------ "."." ".
1-2
ls
I,'.1.B.uildin.g.C.oml?o.".e.n. : , . 1-3
1.5 Characteristic Features 1-3
,,.,,.,, .
. . . . . . . -- "." " ".,,--. ,,, ,,

1.6 Tj'JJ.(l.!,(lgy. 1-5

1.7 Conclusion 1-7

Chapter TWO 2-1

Historical Overview
2.1 2-1
-- lntroduction .

2.2 ,~,~ ..~,I,:~,t.

~osqul:__ " ".". 2-1
2J.c:1Jl:<>1l(l1{)gica1l)e",e lopJ!l~,~.!
..i~.(JI(l~a1(;(lllt.cx:t__ 2-3
2.4 Chrollo1ogical,,!?,~~~1(lrrnen.t.in.B:Ill.g.1~desh. 2-8
2.5 Conclusion 2-16

Chapter THREE 3-1

Field Study
3.1 Introduction 3-1
-------------- --. -- ".".".".

3.2 ScoIJ~... -------- -------- ... ------. ---- ... -- -- ... "."."."
3-1
1.{)gy. __
~:} ...~ ~t.h.o.~() "" ..
" "." ..3-1
3.:4 ~tIl~¥__
o.Il.C::.a:se
__
~.?~.'l~es__ 3-9
3:5lJse.~at.t,~::ll,,?r..~f!~c.cs. 3-20
3.6 User's".".".".".
Feedback and Observations 3-20
........
3.7 Conclusion 3-21

>
 Tablt! a/Cantt'n/s: v

I!PART: B
•iForrnulalion ofDelilgn Criteria and Standards I
Chaptl'r FOUR 4-1
Basic Consideration'
4,llntroduetion '-I
4.2 Concept '-I
'_2
4.3 Sitt! Phmning
4.4 Qibla: the OriClltntion for Salat ,~
4.5 Conclusion 4.12

Chapfer FIVE 5-1

Design Approach
5.1 Introduction '-1
~ptltinl Analysis of Function
5.3 Functional Sr»-ccs ,~
'-1
5.4 Building Elcments 5.11
5.5 Conligumlion of Space and Form 5-14
5.6 Building lind Finish Mftlennls 5-18
5.7 AesthetiC!l 5-18
5.8 Environment 5.20
5.9 Conclusion 5-26

Ch.pll'r SIX 6-1

Design Standan!s
6.1 Introduction 6-1
6.2 Dl:tcrmination ofCar»-city ofa Mosque 6-1
6.3 'lib/a Directions for Bang~ndcsh 6-3
6.4 Space Standards 6-3
6.5 Conli~mlion of Space 6-8
6.6 Furniture 6-,
6.7 Requirement ofWntt!f 6-'
6.8 Conclusion 6-10
Epll0l:ue FA

~I'PE;-;D1CES
.
A.I-I
,
1
A.l Glossary of Terms A.1-1 "
A.2 Photo~phs A.2-1
A.3 Measured Dra\\ings A.3-1
~gures A.4.1
A.5 Bibliography A.5-1
 Ust of Figures and Tables: v;

List of Figures and Tables

Figure & Page

Table No. Title of Figure and Table No.
Cla"ification of early IslamIc mosques in Bengal according to
l'ig, 1.1 Figure I-I
the configuration of ground plan
Fig, 1.2 Typical North Indian mosque during Mughal period Figure I-II
Fig, 1.3 Ground floor plan o[Delhi Jam; mosque FIgure I-m
Fig. 1.4 Front elevation of Delhi Jam; mosque FIgure 1-1V
Fig. 2.1 House of the Prophet (S) and the fir,t mosque in Islam Figure 2-1
Fig.2.2.a PI"n o[the house of the Prophet ($) and the mosque in 622 AD Figure 2-1
Fig.2.2.b Re-ummged Plan with the change qibla in 632 AD Figure 2-1
Fig.2.2.c Extension during 534-644 AD & 644-656 AD Figure 2-1
Fig.2.3.a Plan o[the Prophet', (g) mosque in 1987 AD Figure 2-1
Fig.2.3.b Aerial view of the present mosque ofthe Prophet (S) Figure 2-1
Fig. 2.4 The l'riday mo'que at Isfahan: Ground plan Figure 2-11
Fig. 2.5 The Eshrefoghlu mosque at Bey>hehlr: Ground plan Figure 2-11
Fig. 2.6 The Al.Aksa mo'que at Jen,,"lern Figure 2_11
Fig. 2,7 The Great mosque at Damascus: Ground plan Figure 2-11
Example of different type, ofminarels found in difT~'rCnt
FIg. 2,8 Figure 2-III
cOlll1tries
FIg. 2,9 The palace of M,hatta: Ground plan Figure 2_111
Fig. 2.10 The nbat of Susa: Ground plan Figure 2-IIl
Fig, 2,11 The Great Mosque ofSamarra: Ground plan Figure 2-IIl
Fig, 2,12 The Timarkhana at Aamsya: Birds eye view Figure 2-IIl
Fig, 2.13 11le Khirki Mo'que at Delhi: Ground plan Figure 2-IV
The Ahmed Shah Mosque at Ahmadabad: A longitudinal
Pig. 2, 14 Figure 2-IV
section through the ladies gallery _
The Gunmant Mosque at Gaur: Tunnel vault ofthe tran'ept or
Fig, 2.15 Figure 2-IV
central aisle
Fig, 2,16 The Chota Sona Mosque: Front view ofa Chauchala vault Figure 2-IV
Fig, 2.17 The Choto Sana Mosque: Corner view of a Chauchala vault Figure 2-V
Fig, 2.18 The Chamkattl Mosque at Gaur: Groin vault in the foro room FlgurC 2-V
The Masjldhari Mosque at Mirzagonj: Chauchala vault in the
Fig, 2.19 Flgurc2-V
fore room
Fig, 2.20 Floor plan of the Adina Mosque Figure 2_V
Fig, 2.21 Floor plan ofthe Snait Gambuj Mosque Figure 2-VT
Fig, 2.22 Floor plan o[the Uitton Mosqne Figure 2-Vl
 L,s/ of Figures and Tah/e,,' vi;

Fig, 2.23 Floor plan of the Baba Adam Mosque Figure 2-VI
Fig, 2.24 Plan, elevation and seellon oflhe Allakuri Mosque Figure 2-VI
Fig, 2.25 Floor plan of the Lalbag Fort Mosque Figure 2-VII
Fig, 2.26 The Star Mosqne, famous for ils ornamentation Figure 2-VII
Fig, 4.1 Aerial view: },Jorthern part ofTaj Mahal complex, Agra Figure 4-1
Example of axial diver,ity in the three types of bUllding m the
Fig, 4.2 Figure 4-1
same complex ofTaj Milial, Agra
Direction ofKaaba (qih!a) from GPS station at Gulshan
Fig. 4.3 Figure 4-II
Ladiies Park, Dhaka
Fig, 5.1 FunetlOnal flow diagram ofa mo'que figure 5-]
Schematic diagram ,howing possible approaches to a mosque
Fig. 5.2 Figure 5.II
from roads on different sides ofa SHe
Fig.5.3.a Scheme A: Floor Plan Figure 5-III
Flg.5,3.b Scheme B: Floor Plan Figure 5-IV
Fig.5,3.e Scheme C: Ground Floor Plan Figure 5-V
Fig. 5,3.d Scheme C: First Floor Plan Figure 5-VI
Fig. 5.4.a Determinant of space eonfiguratlOn: Formation of qatar Figure 5-VII
Determinant of 'pace configuration: Range of audiovisual
Fig, 5.4.b Figure 5-VIII
acuity
Fig. 5.5 Module, grid and bay for a mosque Figure 5_IX
Fig. 5,6 Relationship ofkngth, width and height of mosque proper FIgure 5_IX
The building elements ofa mosque - dome, arch, turrets,
Fig, 5.7 Figure 5-X
minaret, kiosk etc,
The element> of a mosque used as 'ymhol to represent a
Fig. 5.8 5-19
mosque, Muslim festivals, event, etc,
Fig. 5.9 Examples of different types of ornamental elements in mosques Figure 5_XI
Lines pass through dlfferent place in Banglade"h of similar
Fig. 6.1 Figure 6-III
angular value for qibla dire<:tion
Anthropometric data: Body dimension of an adult male of
Fig. 6,2 Figure 6-IV
Bangladesh
Fig. 6,3 Space for salat ofmalc Figure 6-V
Fig. 6.4 Space for sitting in different posmre m a mosque Figure 6-VI
Fig. 6,5 Space for wazu facility with supplied water through pipe Figure 6- VII
Fig, 6.6 Dimension for m;mbar Figure 6- VIII
Fig, 6.7 Low-table, for students and tcach~"fs of muklab Figure 6- VIII
Fig, 6.8 Dimensions ofshe1ves for safe"kccping of shoes and umbrellas Figure 6-iX
Survey format to determine the number of musaWes attending A.4-1
Fig. A.4.1
.<alal and utilizing wa;:u and toilet facility
Fig. A 4.2 Instruction to usc: determination of q;bla by shadow method A.4-11

Table 3.3.2.a Mosques for pilot survey 3-2

Table 3.3,3.a Mosque~ for Case study 3-7
Table 3.3,3.b Checklist of ,ignificant features in the mosque, fro case study 3-8
 Lisl afFigures and Tables' viii

The qibla dircetlons and corresponding latitude and longitude

Table 6.1 Figure 6-II
of64 zUas ofBanglade,h
Table 6.2 Space for toilet facility per unit 6-5
Required toilet umts per 1[)()mu,mllies for different
Table 6.3
neighbourhood, 6-'
Spacc for stores for a mosque with a capacity of about 5[)()
Table 6.4
musallie., and 50 ,tudent> of mak/vb using low-table 6-'
Table 6.5 Pereenlllge of circulation space with respect to space for salal 6-6
Proposed rcviSlOn for the Table 4.3.1 ofBNBC: Occupancy
Table 6.6
load for varioll.< occupancies 6-'
Table 6,7 Required exit width of a mosque per occupant 6-'
Table 6,8 Floor space per person for a mo'que 6-8
Possible length, width and height of main sa/al space ofa
Table 6,9 6-8
mosque
Table 6.10 Requirement of water 6-9
TableA.4,j Qihla indicator for Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2000 AD AA-jjj
 Prologue; ;x

PROLOGUE

P.I Introduction
Islam is proclaimed to be a complete code of practice and a mosque plays significant
role to establish it. As a ccntre of spirirnal contents and a platfonn of communication,
it dcvelops the unity and brotherhood among the Muslim communities. The major
activity of mosquc is to facilitate salat to be penonned in jama .a/. Many other
activities in favour of dally life of an individual Muslim or a Muslim community are
accomplished through a mosque. Thus a mosque has become an indispcll5able part of
any Muslim settlemcnt allover the world.

Islam is intended for whole mankind. So, its norms and attitudes, by its nature and
manner of implication, are quite SUItableand adaptable for different geographical
features and social status. The criteria and standards for a mosque follow the
fundamental issues of Islam and practical factors. That is why the outward fonnal
appcarance of a mosque in a sub-Saharan African country and that of Bangladesh may
differ for variations in climate, available building materials and technology ctc. But in
most of the aspects of fundamental criteria rcscmbles to a considerable degree. Some
design standard may vary for details and quantitative local issucs. Thus, it is possible
to identify some common critcria and standards for a mosque irrespective ofplacc and
culture, but it is difficult to prescribc those universally and in totality. This thesis is
intended to fonnulate some important and fundamental design criteria and standards
for a mosquc in Bangladesh.

P.2 Scope of Work

A mosque is usually placed in a complex, compnsed of other related structures like
madrasah. huzra khana, shops (to rent out) etc. Selectively, this thesis includcs only
the mosque and its serviccs. Issues that facilitate the perfonnance of salal and other
rituals within the mosquc are given the topmost preference for analysis and
propositions. Design criteria and standards in relation with space and servicc facilities
are elaborated considerably. Environmcntal issues, itself being a vast field, are kept
beyond the scope of elaboration. Only some general suggestions and notes are
includcd to assist the designers.

P,3 Research Rationale

Pious Muslim rulers, rich people and others were the patrons to construct the mosques
in thc early stage of development in Bangladesh. By virtue ofbemg well verscd about
the sunnah and shariah, they abided by most of the terms of Islam mvolved in
mosque design. Prescntly, common people of the community are developing most of
the mosques. In few cases, they 3rc cngaging architects - usually from a sccular type
of educational background._ So, there is a prime ncccssity to establish some
cOll5olidatedguidelines formulated from theology and practical issues, which can be
followed by the designers.
 Prologue: x

Much has so far been studied and compiled on already built mosques in the context of
history, physical description and comparative analysis. But littlc has been explored on
the aspects of functionality, design criteria and standards to help the design process of
a mosque, acceptable in terms of theology and practice. From the available sourcesl,
there could not be found any complete publication that covcrs the design aspects and
standards for a mosque. Unfortunately enough, even the popularly used design
standard book~ does not contain a single word on mosque, though this voluminous
compilation has covered more than eighty building types starting from a small book
shop to an international airport and it has also included religious buildings of different
believes. Some IslamiC theologians have compiled some codes of practice for a
mosquc in different books in a disperse manner. And for the obvious reason of being
m dliTerentrealm of education and practice, they could not provide any proposition to
materialize those theoretical codes in terms of dcsign proposals.

Without any dcsign guidelines or standards, the architect, if fortunately a practicing

Muslim, is going about on the crutches of his plain experience of existing mosques
and dcduced knowledge from other secular public buildings, thus, involving the risk
of erroneous design proposals with respect to function and the Islamic shariah.
Needless to mentJOn the severity of consequence when the designer is a non-
practicing Muslim or from other believes. So, there had been a long felt necessity for
formulation of design criteria and standards for a mosque. Hopefully, this thesis will
be helpfl.11for the architccts to design a mosque. This may also be used as a
groundwork and reference for the future researchers who can contribute for further
developmcnt and refinements in the same field.

PA Objectives
The objectivcs ofthis thesis work can be summarized as follow:

o To assist, especlally the architects and generally the other technical hands
involved in the design process of a mosque, as a dcsign guideline and a quick
reference for technical standards.
o To use as a tool for checking the already constructcd mosques for any discrepancy
with a view to resolve them.
o To set some special conditions and means to facilitate the expansion, restoration
or renovation ofa mosque.
o Some general parameters, which are applicable in the global context, can be
proposed for inclusion in the internationally accepted and practiced Design
Standard books.
Cl Can be uscd as a base work for further modification and elaboration in future
research work.

P.5 Metbodology
Methods adopted to perform some background slUdycan be categorized as:

1. LiteralUreSurvey:
o To explore the meaning and purpose of a mosque in the light of theology.
IJ To identify the design guidelines dictated by the Holy Qu,'an, Hadirh and other
books of shariah.
 Prologue: xi

o To analyse the history of architecture to identify the transition of mosque through

ages to reach the present phase in Bangladesh.

2. Field Study:
o Users feedback to identify the positive and negative aspects of the mosques under
use.
o Survey on the space use pattern, service requirements and other lssues with
respect to the different size and type of COtlUllunity.

3. Expenmental ActIVIty:
!J To deduce the space standards in terms of ergonomics.
o To derive the gihla direction for different locations of Bangladesh.
IJ To derive the generalmdex for the quantity of different services.

P.6 Terms, Measurement Units and Text Format

The terms, which have especial connotative meaning in Islam and popularly knOVffi
and used by the Muslims, arc used without translation but in transliterated form to
avoid solecism. For example, the word "Allah" connotes the entity having no ancestor
or offsprin~, where as the English word "God", unfortunately used as translation of
the word "Allah" even by Muslims, connotes the concept of "trinity,,4, a concept
clearly opposed by Islam. Another word "wazu" connotes to the specific rite
performed for purification, especially as a prerequisite for salal. But the word
frequently translatcd as "ablution" connotes to Christian religious activity very much
dissimilar in nature and purpose'. The definitions, denotative and connotative
meanings of the terms are furnished in the Appendices (A.l Glossary of Terms). The
words, which are defined in the Glossary ofTerrns, are 'italicised' in the general text.

For unit of measurements, MK.S. system is followed and mentioned throughout the
thesis work. The latitude and longitude values are expressed in degree, minutes,
second and also in decimal degrees. The angles are considered as clockwise positive.
These norms are followed unless otherwise mdleated.

An the headings (for chapters, sections and paragraphs) are left aligned. Body text is
justified to left and right margin. For easy Identification, quotations are indented
inward from the left ad right margins and quotation marks are omitted, as sometimes
those marks are found within the quotation itself. Numbers for references are placed
in square brackets, where the first digit indicates the ehapter number and the
following digits indicate the serial number of books, enlisted at the end of each
chapter.

P.7 Organization ofthe Thesis

As background work, literature survey and field study is conducted in Part: A.
Chapter One deals with the general aspects of a mosque. To understand the
morphology of different elements of a mosque, an historical overview is furnished in
Chapter Two. Chapter Thee reveals the present status of various mosques through
field study.
 Prologue: xii
Part: B is dedicated for formulation of design criteria and standards. In Chapter Four,
some ba.>iccriteria is discussed and in Chapter Five the design issues are analysed and
suggestions are made. Chapter Six covers the aspects of design standards.

Findings and suggestions are summarized in the Epilogue. Survey findings and other
support information, photographs, charts, tables etc. arc compiled in the Appendices.
Figures, tables, charts etc. directly related to a chapter, are placed at the end of that
particular chapter.

P.8 Conclusion
This is important to keep in mind, that the purpose of this thesis is not to derive a
del1nite mosque prototype suitable for placing anywhere in Bangladesh. It is rather
guidelines and matrix, which the architect should base on. There are some issues in a
mosque, which have similar basis compared to other secular buildings and has no
special significance for being applied in a mosque (as for example, tread and riser size
of a stair, width of a toilet door etc.). These issues are intentionally limited in brief
discussion to avoid excessive elaboration of the text.

References
[1.1] Chiara, Joseph IX and Callender, John Hancock (editors); Time-Saver Standards for
Bllilding Type; 2nd Edition, McGraw-Hill Book Co. Singapore, 1987.
[1.2] Al-Qur'anul Karim, Computer CD, Version 6,31, Sakhr Software, 1996,
[1.3J Oxford Talking Dictionary. Computer CD Version, The Learnmg Company, Inc. 1998.

1 Locallibrarie'. Interne! ,ite, of different book >.hops,pubti>.hcrs cle.

, Time_Saver Standards lor Buiiding Types [1.1].

l "He begetletb not, nor i, He ocgotten"; The Holy Quran, Sura 112 AJ_lkhla" Ayab 3, [L2J.

, The three persons or mode, of being of the Godhead as conceived in orthodox Chri,1ian belief; the
Father, Son, and Holy Spint as con,ntnting one God. Frequently in the Blessed Trinity, tho Holy
hinity etc. [1.3]

, Ablurion, the ocrorn()Jl;al ",a,hing of ,acred ves-,cl, after: or of the celebrant's fingers before, during,
""d .fter, the Eucharist [1,3, ,earcb result oftbe word].

•
 Chapter ONE
The Mosque: General Aspects .
. " .., '
 The Mosque: General Aspects }-}

Chapter ONE. The Mosque: General Aspects

1.11ntroduction
A mosque is a well-known building type in the Muslim settlements and even in the
whole world. The very word masjld or mosque evokes an instant imagery in the mind
of any Muslim without further introduction. Still, there remain some scopes to explain
from academic point of view. This Chapter include~ the basie aspects of a mosque -
word meaning, definition, role in Islam etc.

1.2 Word Meaning and Definition

1.2.1 Word Meaning

The etymological account of the word 'masjid' is narrated 10 thc Shorter
Encyclopaedia oflslam as:

The word msgd (from s-g-d "to prostrate one,elr') is found in Aramaic,
meaning in Nabatacan a stele, a saered pillar, or perhaps "place of worship"
(cooke, Norlh Semitic !nscdplirms, p. 238), as alrcady in the Jewish
Elephantine Papyri (ed, Saehau, pI. 32). Arabie masjid i, taken over from
Aramaic or fonned independently from sadjada prostrate oneself', which
comes from Aramaic, like Ethiopic mesgad "temple, church" [1.1, p. 330J.

The word is used twice in The Holy Quran as masjii, It is also included thrice in
plural form (masajid), once in surah AI-Baqarahl and twicc in surah At_Toubal. In
definitive term as al-ma'iJid, it is also mentioned in 15 places [1.3, scarch results for
al-masjid{ It is also mentioned as Bailullah (the house of Allah) and other tcrms in
many places or[he Holy Quran. The terms are also round in several places in hadith.

The sanctuary in Mecca, always knOlvn 3S Bailuaallah even before the time of thc
Prophct (8)', remained as the principal mosque at the time of the Prophet (8) as well.
According to thc tradition, the term al-masjid al-aksa (surah 17:1) means the
Jeru>alem sanctuary (e.g., surah 22:40 and 18:21, [1.1, p, 330]

1.2.2 Delinition
According to the teachings ofthc Prophet (8) any place can be a ma,i;jld or mosque. A
sanctuary is not a fundamental neecssity. Every place in world is same to Allah, as in
the saying:

Wherever the hour ofpraycr ovcrtakes thee, thou .,halt perform the salal and
that is amasjid, (Muslim, Masajid, t I. I), [1.1, p. 330J. .

Accordingly, throughout the Muslim world, at the time of prayer, ifthcrc is no formal
building as mosque, the pious Muslims select auy open space, spread out a mat, orient
towards the qibla and perform theIr salal. From this very phenomenon,
 The Mosque: General Aspects 1-2

Technically, therefore, it can be argued that the term mwj;d, normaliy

translated into English as 'mosque', doe, not nc<:cssariiyconnote a building of
any kind.

In fact, of course, Mnslims began to build mosque, from the very early days
of Islam, and as the number of thesc mosques mnltiplied, patterns of
architecture began to dcvelop. Nevertheless, it is salutary to remember thc
willed austerity of the arrangements for worship as delincd and practiced by
Muhammad. In the centurie, to eome Muslims never entirely forgot the
starknes; of his examplc, and periodically the force, of revivalism and
pielism attempted at least a partial return to the pristine simplicity of the
eari'est Islamic worship. [1.4, p. 31]'

To get rid of the adverse climatic condition, there is a nece,sity of shelter. Moreover,
it gives the identity and ease to maintain the ,3eredness of the place. As the concept of
mosque st3rted to c,tablish in terms ofa built form, it can be defincd 3S,

The mosque i, of course the principal religious bUIlding of Islam, and

paramount among its many functions is communal prayer. In its simple,t and
most widespread form the medieval mosque comprised a courtyard bordered
by arcades and adjoining a covered hall [1.4, p.31].

1.3 Role in Islam

A mosque is 3 centre for Islamic spirit, rituals 3nd divine scrvices. It is a common
practice that a Muslim community builds a mosque to meet the fundamental religious
requirement of salat and other religious 3nd social services. Thus, a mosque becomes
the emblem and the impetus of the Islamic way of life 3nd forms as an inseparable
part of MCls1lmsettlements. In a Muslim majority country like Bangladesh, mosques
serve 3S the focal point of each neighbourhood. Apart from the principal religious and
social purposes, a mosque also symbolises the identity for 3 conununity.

Perfonning ,mlal injama'al is a sunnah mu'akkadah or even wajih [1.5, pp. 127-128].
Many hadi/hs discuss the superiority and excellence of prayers in congregation. Such
a hadith inellides the following:

Ibn 'Vmar reports that the Prophet sailall"hu "lehi wasallam said: "Prayer in
congregation is superior to a prayer perfonned individ\lillly by twenty-seven
degrees." (Al-Bukhuri and Muslim); [1.2, search result for congregation].

Muslims are not allowed to perform salat alone unless there is a serious and
unavoidable excuse [1.5, pp. 133-134]. For all these reasons, a mo,que h3s become an
indispensable part ofa Muslim community.

The members of a small community meet each other in the daily five times sa/als.
Once in every week, for the Friday prayer, i.e., Salat of Jumu'a, musallies from many
small communities participate in a larger congregation in 3 Jam;' mosquc. Regional
get-together occurs twice in a year for the salat of Eid in a much bigger congregation.
Muslim from all over the world meets in the Hajj at the holy Kaba and in the mosque
of the Prophet (5), once in a year for the bigge<;t eongrcg3tion. This unique
phenomenon of sequential process of unity reflects the innate intention of Islam for a
social bonding and worldwide brotherhood of the Muslim community. And definitely
mosques playa significant role for it, m3terialization.
 The Mosque: GeneralAspects 1-3

Other than salat, aetlvilles like dawal, religious education, religious discussion,
marriage and many other social scrviecs arc conducted from a mosque. Moreover, it
plays the role of establishing social identity and self esteem. The involvement of a
mosque through this role in the life of a Muslim, as an individual and as well as a
member of the community, is very intimate and all pervading. Thus it is said,

The mosque, for Mu,lim, is nOIonly a place of prostration, hoi also Ihe center
ofrnany social aClivilles.The mosque in a sense is an epitome of MusJim life.
[1.9,p.123]

1.4 Building Components

The Prophet (5) established the first mosque in Medina in a simplest possible manner.
(Detailed description and figures are included in Chapter Two). This first mosque
underwent some obvious changes and development due to certain functional necessity
during the lifetime of the Prophet (5) and the four Caliphs (R)" without much change
in basic characteristics. With thc massive expansion of Islamic Slale, a good numbcr
of mosques were built in the Syrio-Byzantinc regions and other areas. Gradually the
mosqnc has undergone further changes and accepted some more components as its
own. Such changcs happcned due to its inherent necessity, influence of the regional
styles and the mission to bccome comparable with the monumental and splendid
buildings of other communities. The high minarets can bc considered as an outcome
or such an attitude. Finally, a mosque of mediaeval period was usually comprised of
the following c'omponents (see Fig, 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4):

a) Liwan (Prayer hall)

h) Riwak (Cloister)
c) Sahn (Courtyard)
d) Haud (Tank)
e) Mihrab (Prayer niche)
t) Mimber (Pulpit)

Minarel is an addition oflater period. Other components like maqsura, ruler's gallery,
zenana or women's gallery etc. are uncommonly found in some of the mosques.

To avoid repetition, the components are described in Chapter Two In the section:
Chronological Development in Brief, where description of these components is
furnished along with their development process.

1.5 Characteristic Features

The mosque has changed by i15features from the first one in Medina through those In
mediaeval period to those of today. Many new components arc added and the concept
of austerity and simplicity has almost diminished. So, it is very difficult to generalize
the characteristic feature ofa mosque in every a;pecl.

The first mosque established by the Prophet (S) and other during the time of four
Caliphl possessed the following significant characteristics:

Q Simple and austere

Q No extravagant or monumental appearance
 The Mosque: General Aspects 1-4

o No ornamentation or >uperfluous clements

IJ Active and busy with different rituals, religious education, dawal, service of
mankind etc.
o Platfonn or equality, unity and brotherhood
u Centre for all personal and social aspirations
IJ Manifests the iconoclastic and egalitarian principles of Jslam.

Other than those mentioned above, there are some common features like,

IJ Defined orientation (towards qibla)

o Possesses specific architectural features to mark the transition from secular to
spiritual
IJ Clarity and transparency of space

In this context, P. Brown describes as:

Comparcd with the clarity of the mosque, the temple is an abodc of mystery;
the eoum of the former "re open to light and air, with many doorways
inviting publicity, the lattcr encloses "a phmtasm" of ma"ive darkness,"
having sombre pa:;sages leading to dim cell" jealously guarded and remote.
The mo'que h", no need of" central shrine, it ISsufficient for the devotee to
tum in the direction of Mecca, but the focal point of the temple is " ,"cred
chamber often deep within labyrinth of its endless corridors. Architecturally
the mO.'que i, wholly visible and intelligible, while the temple is not
infrequently introspective, complex, and indeterminate. The representation of
namral fonns is prohihited hy Islamic us"ge, whereas the walls of the temples
pulsate with imagery, and their interiors arc the dwelling places of the god,;
decorntive lettering attained its highest form in the sculptured texts on the
Moslem places of worship, but on the temple, inscriptional art is rarc, thc
Hindus couveying their meaning by iconography and carved figure
eomposition. By means of a multitude of the,e fLgured fonns, the Hindus
gave to the natural tint and texture of the ,tone; conversely, thc
Mohammedans broke up the;, wall ,urfaces in patterns of different coloured
marble, and "Iso applied schemes of painted pla,ter and brilliantly glazed
titles. [1.7, p.l]

Some more features can be identified which arc the outcomes of the very intrinsic
quality of Islam as a religion. To quote Hillenbrand:

Suffice it to say that mosque architecturc is at base egalitarian, iconoclastic,

inward looking and - ahove all- profoundly religious in its intent. [1.4, p. 32]

As the extravagant and monumental mosques started to cmcrgc in Islamic

architecture, some characteristic features, though contradictory to the doctrine, also
cvolved. Those can be summarized as:

IJ Monumental scale, addition of minaret as a symbol of power and majesty,

IJ Emphasis on visual aspects - intricate and expensive ornamcntal design, alluring
materials etc,
IJ Infrequency in usc - mcrcly for saJal. A clear drift from the fundamental
objectivc.

•
 The Mosque: General Aspects ]-5

Of course, the adherence to the physical parameters like defined orientation etc.
(descnbed in preceding paragraph) is still observed in the mosques of later period.

1.6 Typology
Basically there is no distinct typolOb'Yin mosques based on any significant or major
criteria. As a prayer space any mo,que follows the similar conceptual and physical
phenomenon. Still, some fine lines can be drawn to categorize the mosques according
to certain minor parameter,.

1.6.1 Hierarch)' of significance

From dirferent hadith/, according to signil1cance, the mosque can be arranged
hierarchically in the following descending order:

IJ Al-kaba in Mecca
IJ Musjid-i-Nababi in Madina
o Masjid-al-Aqsa in Jerusalem
Ll Jam! Mosql.le
o Prayer space for five-times daily prayers (other than Jumua)
o Individual space for prayer.

1.6.2 Ownership ofland:

For any mosque, where sa/at ofjumua is to be perfonned, must be a placed on a land
of waqf, i.e., the owner will absolutely withdraw his possession and make
endowment in the name of Allah. all this context, there can be a classification as,

Q Mosque (Built on a land ofwaqn

Q Prayer space (Built on a land or in a building possessed by somebody or authority)

1.6.3 Period of construction

In different regime, architectural features for mosques uSl.lal1yexemplify some
variations, Critics of architecture categorize the periods for the convenience of
comparative analysis. For mosque architecture of Bangladesh (or Bengal), it can be
phased as:

!J The early Islamic or prc-Mughal or Sultanate period (1204-1576 AD)

o Mughal period (1576-1757 AD)
:I British colonial period (1757-1947 AD)
Q Contemporary period (1947 - to date)

1.6.5 Neighbourhood to serve

Variations are observed in main prayer space and service usc pattern depending on the
neighbourhood type of the mosque. On this context there may be a typology as:

o Mosque in residential neighbourhood

D Mosque in commercial area neighbourhood

1.6.6 Set-up
Mosques can be divided into two sub-lypes depending on its set-up.
 The Mosque: General Aspects ]-6

Q Mo~que in urban set-up

o Mosque in rural set-up
CJ Mosque in sub-urban set-up

1.6.7 Special significance

o National mosque
a Zila!city central mosque
IJ Centre for dawat (tahlig)
IJ Historically important

1.6.8 Source of finance for constructiou

For construction of mosques, different sources of finance are used. Commonly, if the
source of finance is single, ample and continuou~ in fiow, the con,truction work
follows a systcmatic design order. Whilc it is collected from community and meets
the demand, in different instalments, the devclopment follows an incrcmental and
usually non-systematic design ordcr. Ou this ground, following classification can bc
done to identify thc phenomenon.

IJ State, organi7.ation ctc.

a Single person (ruler, rich person etc,)
o Musallies of the community

1.6.9 Plan
Classification can be done according to the type of arrangement of space and form of
a mosque. Aceordiug to the ground plan. The mosques of early Islamic period of
Bengal can be cla~sified as shown in Fig.I.I. Similarly, mosque of other periods can
be classified. These typologies arc discussed in details in the following chapter. Plans
cun be broadly classified us:

a Courtyard type
a Enclosed type

1.6.10 Funetionallayers
a Single storey
o Multi-~torcy (more than single storcy)
a Originally ,ingle ,torey, presently multi-~torcy
o Constructed over floor!s of secular u,e (market, warehouse, library etc.)

1.6.11 Capacity for sala/

IJ Small (3-200 m1L~allie.~,
usually serves low-den~ity small community)
Q Mcdium (201-2000 musallies, usually serves high-density community)
IJ Large (2001-above musallies, usually scrves high-density community or a city)

1.6.12 Special buildiug elements

(Mihrab is not li,ted herc, as it is common to all mosqucs)
•
a Dome
o Minaret
o Corner turret,

,
,
 The Mosque: General Aspects 1-7

o Vault
o Arch
o Gallery (For ladies or royal dignitaries)

1.6.13 Ventilation
!J Natural
o Artificial (air conditioned)

1.6.14 Source of water for wazu

o Supplied water through pipe and taps
o On-ground water reservoir
o Pond
o Tube-well and pitcher

1.7 Conclusioll
The word mosque, which is the English version of the Arabic word 'masjid', refers to
a place ofprostmtion. Phenomenally, any place, which is used and also maintained for
salat, can bc dcfined as a mosque; a sheltcr is not a liturgical necessity. However, for
elimatic protection, privacy, maintenance, identity and other factors - a built form
with prayer >paces and scrvicc facilities is popularly defincd as a mosque. It plays
significant role in spiritual and practical life of a Muslim at personal and communal
level.

Simplicity and au>terity chamctcrizcd the inception of a mosque. Gradually it evolved

in to splendour and monumentality. The elements of a mosque of mediaeval period
were usually Liwan (Prayer hall), Riwak (Cloi>ter), Sahn (Courtyard), lIaud (Tank),
Mihrab (Prayer niche) and Mimher (Pulpit). Minaret is an additional element. Other
uncommon components are maqsura, ruler', gallery, zenana or women's gallery etc.

A mosque is an edifice of profoundly religIOUS intent. The amal or activities

e~tablished by the Prophet (S) is the objeclive and the built form is just to support it.
A mosque ,hould bc defined and understood upon the innate meaning and purpose,
not on mere outward visual aspects.

Broadly, there i, no major classification in mo>ques, though some typology can be

derived according to some in finn and finer basis like, hierarchy of significance,
period of construction, ownership of land, neighbourhood to serve, plan etc.

References
[1.1] H. A. R. Gibb and J. H. Kramer~,Shorter Encyclopaedia of 1,lam, E. J. Brill, Leiden,
Nelherland,,1961.
[1.2] The A1im For Windows, Shahid N. Shah, Computer CD Version, Release 4.5, lSL
Software Corpornlion, USA, 1996.
[1.3] AI-Qur'anul Kar;m, Computer CD, Version 6.31, Sakhr Software, 1996.
[1.4J Hillenbrand, Robert; islamic arch,lecture: Form, F~nction and Meaning, Edinburgh
Univer,ily Press, UK, 1994,
[1.5] Thanuvi, Maolana Ashraf Ali, (tral1,lation; Faridpuri, Maolana Shamsul Haque),
Beheshti Jeor, Vol. I, EmdJdia Libmry, DhakJ, 1990.
[1.6J Creswell, K. A. C,; A Short Acco~ttt of Eariy Muslim Architecture; Pcngutn Books
Ltd., UK, t958.
 The Mosque: GeneralA,~pecls 1-8

[1.7] Brown, Percy, Indian ArchiteclUre (Islamic Period), D, B. Taraporevala Son, & Co.
Pv!. Ltd" 1956,
[1.8] Ahmed, Abu Sayeed Mushlaquc, The ChaW Sana Masque in Gaur, An Example of
Farly !.<Iamlc Architecture of Bengal; In,titul Fur Baugeschichtc Der Universitat
Karlsruhe, Gcnnany, 1097.
[1.9] Crag, Kenneth; The Call of the Minaret; Oxford University Pre.''', New York, 1956,
[1.10] Mlchel1, George (editor); Architedure oj the Islamic World - Its H,story and Social
Meaning; Th"mes and Hudson Ltd.; L<:mdon, 1996.

J a). Say: "My Lord hath commandcdju,ticc; and that ye set your whole selve, (10 him) at every !Jme
and place of praycr and call upon him making your devotion smcere as in hi, sight: ,uch as he
created you in the beginning so shall ye return." Sura: 7 Al_A'raf, Ayah: 31, [1.2, search ,,"suit for
masjid].

b), 0 Children of Adam! Wear your beautiful apparel al every limc and place of praycr: eat and drink:
hut waste not by excc,", foc Allah loveth not the wasler<. Sura: 7 AI_A'ref, Ayah; 31, [1.3, search
result for masjid].

, And who IS more uTIju'l tban be who forbids that in plac •• for the worship of Allah, HIS name
should be celebrated'! Wh""" zcal is (in fact) to ruin them'! 1l W"' not fiuing thai such should
lhemselves enrer them excepl in fcar. For lbem there is nothing bul disb'TIiCO
in lhi, world, and iu the
world to come, an e,ceeding ~mn~'1\1.Sura: 2 Al-Baqarah, Ayah: 114, [1.3, scsreh result for
ma.mjiJj.

'a) Il i, nol for such as jom Gods wirh Allah, to vi,il or maintain the mosque. of Allah while lbey
wime" again'l Iheir own souls to mfidehty. The worh of ".cb bear no fruit: in Fire shall they
dwelL Sora: 9 At_Tnuha,Ayab: 17, [1.3, search result for masa;iJj.

b) The mo.ques of Allah ,hall be visited and maintained by soch a, bclieve in Allah and the Last Day,
establish regular pray~'n;,and pracHse regular chari'}', and fc", none (at all) except Allah, It is they
who are expeclcd t" be "n true guidance Sura: 9 /It-Touba, Ayab, 18, [1.3, search result for
masajid],

'a) We see the lurning nflhy face (for guidance) to the heavens: now ,hall We lurn lhee 10a Qlbla that
shall please thee. T"m then thy fac" in tbe direction of the Sacred Mosque: whcrev~'1'yc sre, rum
your faces m that direction, The people "fthe Book know well that that ISthe trurh from Iheir Lord,
nor is Allah uTImindfut"r what lhey do. Al-Uaqarah 2: 144

b) From whencesoever thou startest forth tum thy face iTIlh" direction of the Sacred Mo'que; lhat is
indeed lho trulh from lhy Lord, And Allah i, nor unmindtut "f whal Y" do, AI-tlaqarah 2: 149

c) So from whencesoever rhou ,!artc,1 forth, lum Ihy faee in the direction of the Sncred Mosque; and
wheresoever ye are, tum y"ur f.cc lhither: that there be no ground of dispule again" you among the
people, excepl tho," "flbcm lbat are bent on wickedness; so fear them nol, bul fear Mc; and lhall
may complele My faHlU" on you, and ye may (consent to) be guided; Al_Baqarah2: t 50

d) ATId,lay them whcrever ye calch them, and turn them oul from ",here they have lmncd you out: for
tumult and OppT"""ionare worse than slaughter; but fight them Dotal the S~cred Mosque, unlc",
they (first) fighl y"u thcre; bul if they fighl you, slay them. Such is the reward of lh",c who
suppress faith. Al-Baqarah 2,191

e) And complete the Hajj or Urn" in lbe se"'ice of Allah, but lfye "re prevented (t;-omcomplcting it),
send an offering foc ,,,,,rilicc, suoh •• ye may find, and do not shave your head, unlil Ihe offering
reaches the place of,a~TIficc. And ifany of you is iU, or has an ailment iTIhi, scalp, (nccc",il"ting
shaving), (he sh"uld) in c(Jmpensationeither fast, or feed the poor, or offer ,acrificc; and when ye
are in peaceful condition, (again), if any onc wishes to continue the Umra on ro the Hajj, hc mu,1
make an offenng such as he "an affonl, bul if be cannot afford it, he should fas! three day, during
lhe 1lajj and ,even days on h" rel(Jm, makiTIgkn dsys in all, This is for those whose hou""h"ld i,
 The Mosque: General Aspects 1-9

not in (the precincts of) tbc Saored Mosque, .nd fe.r AlIa~, and know that Allah i, strict in
puni,hm~'1\t.AI-Bnqarah 2;i %

f) ye who f>clie,'e!Violate not tbe sanctity of the Symbols of Atlah, m>rof the ,acred momh, nor of the
animal, brought for ,acrifice, nor the garlands that mark out such animal" nOt lhe people resorting
to the Sacred Hou,c, ,ceking oftlle bOlUltyand good pleasure oft~ciT LonJ But wben ye are dear
of the Sacred Prccincl' and of pilgrim grab, ye may hunt, and let not the hatred of,ome people in
(once) shuttmg you out of the Sacred Mosque iead you to transgression (.nd ~o'tilily on your
part), Help ye one anothcr in rightcou,nes, and piety, but help ye not one anothcr in ,in and
rancour: fear Alla~, for Allah i, ,tricl in puni,hment. Al-Maidah 5:2

g) But what plea have they that Al1a~ ,h"uld not punish them, wben they keep out (men) fr"m the
Sacred Mosque. and they are not Its guardian,,! No men can f>cil' guardians except the nghteous;
bul most of them do not undersland. AI-Antal 8,)4

h) How can there he a league, before Allah and His Messenger, with lhe Pagan" except those With
whom ye made a ITcalyncar the Sacred Mosque? As long as t~ese ,land lruc 10you, sland ye true
to then" fOTAllah d"lh love the righteous, At-Touba 8:7

i) Do ye make lhe giving of drink to pilgrims, or the maintenance of t~e Sacred Mosque, equal to
(the pIOUSse"ice 01) th,""ewh" belb'e in Allah and the UlSt D.y, and strive wilb mighl and main
in lhe cause of Allah? They are mll comparable in the sight of Allah: and AHah guides nol those
who do wrong, At-Touba 9:19

j) ye who believe! Truly the Pagan, aro unclean: '0 let lhem not, after thlS year of tbeirs, appTOac~the
Sacred Mosque, And ifye fear po\'erty, soon will Allah cnrich you, iflle wills, out of His bounty,
for Al!ah i, All_Knowing,AIl-W"e, At-Toub. ~:28

k) Glory 10(Allah) Who did take Ills servant for a Journey by nighl fn)m the Sacred :Mosque to the
Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless, m order t~al We mighl show him some of Our
Signs: for He is lhe One Who Heareth and Seeth (all things), Al_i,ma 17'1

1) lfye did "ell, yc did weI! for yourselves; Ifye did evil. (ye did it) again,t yourselvcs. So when the
second of l~o warning' camc 10pass, (We permitted your euemies) to di,figurc your face<, and to
enter your Temple a, Ihey had entered il beforl', aud to vlsit with destruction all t~at fell into thcir
power, AI-lSI"" 17,7

m) They arc the ones who denied revelation and hindered you from lhe Sacred M"'que and the
,acrificial animals, detamed from reaching their place of ,"crifiec. Had there not been believing
m~'1land believing women whom ye dId not kIlow that ye were lmmpling down and on whose
account a crime would have "ccrued to you without (your) kn"wledge, (Allah would have allowed
you 10 force your W"y, but1Je held back your hand,) t~al He may admil to His Mercy whom He
will. If they had been apart, We should certainly have puni,~ed thc Unbelievers among them Wilha
grievous Pllnis!une"t. Al-Fat-h 48:25

n) Truly did Alla~ fult,l t~e \'i,ion fi,r His Mes<enger: ye shall enter tbc Soered Mosque, If Allah
wills, wIth mmds secure, ~ead, ,havc-d,hair CuI,hort, and wilhour fear. For lIe knew what ye knew
not, and He granted, besides thi" a ,peody \;ClOry;A!_Fat.h48:27.

Stands for lhe Arabic 'Sallallahu 'a/aiM \ill .•alh",,'; (meaning In English- Peace be upon him); a
benedlctlOnultcrcd a, a religinus praclice, afler the name of the Prophet.(5.) is mentioned.

, Stands for 'Radiallahu 'anhu'; meanS 'Allan i, pleased upon him', uttered as any name of the
companIOnsof lhe Prophel (S) i, menlioned.

, Sa'id bin Al-Musayyib reported from Abu Hurairah rhar l~o Prophcl (peace be "pon him) said, "You
should nol undertake a special journey to visit aTIYplace othcr lhaTIlhc lhree Mosques: the Sacred,
Mosque ofMakkah, this mosque of mine, and A!_Aq,a Mosque (of Jerusalem)." Buldlan, Musllm'~
and Abu Daw'nd report lhi,. [TIan"lheT TlaTmli"nlhc words are "For three mosque, a special
 TheMosque: General Aspects I-to

journey may be undertaken: The S""red Mosque (Ka'bah), my ml)'que. and lho mooque of AI_Qud,
(1erus.alem),"

Abu Dharr reponed Ihlll he asked the Prophet (peace be upon him), "0 Prophel of Allah, which
mo<que wa, built first on earth?" Tlte Propltet (peace be upon him) replied, "The S""red Mosque of
Makkah." Abu lJharr again asked, "Wltich was next?" The Propltel (peace be upon hIm) s"d, "The
Al_Aq,a Mosque." "How long wa, lhe period between them?" Abu Dlum asked, The Prophel
(pe""e be upon him) ,aid, "Forly yO"". Ap.rt from lhese, offer your prayers .nJ'Where when It i,
time to pray, although e'cellonoc i, in praying in [ne,e mo<ques,"

Travelling 10 these l~ree mosqu<, i, pTo,eribcd "",oau"" of lncir spedal position in I,lam, Jabir
reported tlml the Propitet (pe.oe be upon him) ,aid, "Ono pru.yCTin lhi, mo<que of mine is bener
than 1,000 prayers offered any'vhere else exceplthe Sacred Mo<que, and on< pray<, in the Sacrod
Mosqne is bener than" hundred thousand prayers lfl any other mosque," Ahmad T"pOrted lhi, with"
sound chain of authoriti •• ,

Ana, bin Malik reported lltal tlte Propitet (peace be upon hIm) said, "Whoever pray' forty ]>Taym
eon,eeutively in my mosque withoul mlS,ing any of lite obligatory prayer, he wIll be remo"ed from
Hell. fmm puni,hmenl, .nd from hypocri,y," Alunad and At-Tabaram reported this with a ,onnd
cnain. We ,oad in "ariou' .nadith lnat. prayer offered in the AlAqs.a mosqne" five hundred lim",
,nperior (in reward) 10 one "ffered in .ny other mo<que, oxoept [ne Sactc<i Mosque and the Mo'que
of the Propitet (in Marlinah); [1.2, Fiqh-u""Sunna~, Fiqh 5.132<].

Endowment of properties, possessions ele. fOTIhe eau,e of I,lam.

,
•.,
 Figure I-I

,.,
......' flll[II!1- ••
1 l
1><Il!',
P l
M"
Ii [11!11 •...•
II eli.,I'

-,!
i
I

,
,,,
!
~
L
,
,
,
i
,.
"" Iii h~I
. l, ,

Figure 1.1 Classification of early Jslamic mosques in Bengal according to the configuraiion of
ground plan {/,8.p. /43].
 • .. Flgu~ l-ll

Figu~ 1.2 Typical North Indilln Mosque during Mughal period. The ITIIIjor axi, elongates towards'
qibla lind lhe whole mosque complex lies symmetrically oboullhis lUis. The lypical building l
clements like domes,llrcbcs, mina..,!!;, tum:l', kiosks. ri .••.
llk elc. ore seen in this vicw. lbe whole
c~mpkx is ~g~_i!;l:0undII.ohn Orcent'lll courtyard {1.7.P __~j. !

---
Figul'l' 1.3 Ground floor plan of Delhi Jam; Figure 1.4 Front dC\"!Ition ofDdhi Jam/Mosque,
Mosque. II typieal North Indian Mosque; showing the lypical building clements- domes, •
{l.IO,p.2l0}.
~ _.- - minuet!, turrets, =11 etc; II.:.!!!: pll0j.. .J
( ',..J ".e

f f'
i
Chapter TWO
Historical Overview
 Historical Overv;"", 2-1

Chapter TWO: Historical Overview

2.1 Intro"duction
For the design approach, one mlJ,t know the origin, cvolution and purpose of diffcrent
form or space of a mo,que. This chapter is intended to overview the historical aspects
of different components of a mosque and the chronological dcvelopment of mosque
architecture in Bangladesh. A good number of published books and papers are alrcady
available for the curious readers. For brevity in supporting literaturc to tbis thesis, the
di,cussion wilt pinpoint the main theme only. Some examples with necessary
drawings and photographs will be furnishcd accordingly.

2,2 The First Mosque

To the Prophet (S), the Holy Kaha in Mecca always remained as the principal
mosque, known as Bai!ullah even before the time of thc Prophet (3) [2.1, p. 330J.
According to a hadith. this is the first mosque on earth, which is also known as Al-
Ma~jid-ul-Haraml.

During hljra, the Prophct stopped at a place named Quba for a few days and used a
space as mo~que, which was not a shelter. Afterwards, in Medina, a shelter was
constrlJcted as the residencc of Prophet', family and as well as thc first community
mo,qlle in Islam [1.1, pp. 330-331; 1.4, pp. 39-42; 1.6, pp. 3-4J.

This first mosque complex consists of an approximately sqllare courtyard (about 50m
x 5Om), surrounded by .valls with three entrances (Fig. 2.1 and Fig. 2.2.a). A covered
portico on thc northern part wa, built for prayer. There were two small rooms to
accommodate the Prophet's family. Another smaller portico, named as sulfa, was built
at the southwest corner of the colJrtyard for the poor migrants from Mceca.

Thc decpcr covered area was facing the northern boundary wall. This was the
dircction of qibla, which was towards Jcrusalem for that time. It is reasonable to
assume that (he larger covered portico was intcnded as prayer halL As M. Anwarul
Islam ju,ti fies,

... the initial purpose of (hi, building was not just to serve as the family
accommodation for the Prophet, as believed by some historians, but also 10
provide a covered space for congregational prayer and other meetings for the
new community. Thi, assumption ;s strengthened by the fact that ,ixteen
months later when the direction of the Qibla was changed from Jerusalem to
Makkah, i.e., from nonhward, to southwards of Medinah, (he de~'P"rshaded
area was moved from the northern to the ,outhern end of the courtyard. [2.5,
p.54]

The ~imple complex, which was not much different from a courtyard type of house in
the desert oasis, gradually became the nerve centre of all religious, social and political
activities. By the time of (he Prophet's death (632 AD), thc numbcr of the rooms of
 Historical Overoiew 2-2
the living quarter increased to nine. Four of those rooms were madc of sun dried mud
brick and the rest made of palm branches plastered with mud (Fig. 2.2.b).

2.3 Chronological Development in Global Context

After the decease of the Prophet (S) for another 25 years, the first mosque continued
as the administrative headquarter by three successive Caliphs, until the fourth Caliph
Ali (R) shifted the capital from Medina to Kufa. During this period there were minor
alterations and extensions to meet the increasing requirement (Fig. 2.2.e). The
following haditll narrates about the extensions:

In the lifet'me of Allah's Messenger (S) the (Prophet's) mosque buitd of

adobes, it, roof of the leaves of dale palms. Abu Bakr did not alter it. Vmar
expanded it on the ,"me pattern as it was in the lifetime of Allah's Messenger
(S) by using adobes, leaves of date paims ""d changing pillars into wooden
ones, Ulhman cimngoo it by expandmg it to a great extent and huih its walls
wllh engraved stone, and lime and made its pillars of engraved stones and its
roof ofteak wood", [1.2: 2.6, p, 180].

The building remained in that state for another 50 years after the capital was shifted
away from Medini and until it was demoli,hed in 707 AD to dear the site for a new
mosque built by Caliph Al-Walid. Not much is known to have happened in respect of
its renovation, embellishment or reconstruction during this period in ,pile of the fact
that it had been gr<idually attaining the status of a highly venerated monument as the
Prophet's mosque (Fig. 2.3.a and 2.3.b). Nowadays, the Muslims consider this mosque
as the second holiest place on earth, next to the Kaba in Mecca.

The massive expansion of the lslamic state and the resulting gro\VIh in the number of
followers of the new religion necessitated the provision of facilities to carry out one of
its mo,t important functions, i.e., the congregational pmyer, hence the establishment
of mosques. In the Syrio-Byzantine regions of the conqnered lands, towards the
northwest of the Arabian Peninsula, there was no need to build new huilding. As some
oftbe existing ehureh buildings were nvailable to be used either by converting them
into mosques or by sharing with the Christians as palaces of prayer for both the faiths.

In the northeast, i.e., parts of the former Sassanid Empire of Persia, however, new
mosques had to be established on virgin lands accompanying the military camps. The
first ever mosque outside of the Arabian Peninsula was on 8a8m in the Iraqi region
where Uthah ibn Ghazwan founded the city in 635 AD as a winter camp for the army.
The gradual development of the mosque can be well understood if the origin and
morphology of its components, as described in the following sections, arc considered
individually for analysis.

2.3.1 Ground Plans

In the ground plans, some types of development can be observed. The following types
are based on the hasis of presence of a courtyard within the mosque precinct (Fig.
1.1 ).

2.3.1.1 Courtyard type

The courtyard with in the mosque premises was popular from the very beginning of
the early Islamic architecture. The Prophet's mosqne at Medina, the fir>! mosque of
 Historical Overview 2-3
Islam, comprised 31so of an open courtyard, The concept of the eourty3rd type
mosques in the Arab countries and Persia or centr31Asia is indeed different. Most of
the eOllrtyards in the early Islamic mosques of the Anlb countries are mainly a
forecourt 3nd surrounded either by 3 covered cloister (riwaq) or a wall. They h3ve no
central symmetry or cross-aisle rel3tionship from inside like the iwan mosques in
Persian and central Asi3. The size and sh3pe of the original courtyard~ have changed
in mo,t C3ses3fter the expansion of the riwaq.

The inner courtyard of the mo<;qllesin centr31Asi3 or Persia is the centre or core of
the mosque. They are integrated with the basic concept of the whOle complex, and
have 3 cross-axial synunetry with the central rods of the fOlJriwans. A fount3in or a
kiosk is usually placed in the centre of the 3xis. The Friday mosque 3t Isfahan (8'h_17'h
century) (Fig. 2.4), the Great mosque at Gulpayagan (1104-18 AD) and the mosque of
Gawhar Shad at Mashhad are some examples of courtyard typed mosque with four
iwan. The Friday mosque of Israhn was built during the Abbasid dynasty as a
hypos!yle mosque with a courtyard. The Scljuks converted it into a four-iwan mosque.
Subsequently thc riwllq of this mosque were enlarged several times, but the courtyard
retains still its original size and shape.

The Adina mosque at Hazrot Pandua (1374-84 AD) is the lonc cX3mple of the
courtyard type mosqlJe in Beng31(Fig. 2.20). The large COUrty3rdor Sahn (127.7 m x
57.2 m) is surrounded by three side--riwaqs and qihla- riwaq. The water wel! is
located neither 3t the axis of'the central mihrah niche nor at the geometrical centre of
the court. It is shifted shghtly towMds north. This type of largc monument<llmosque
with inner courtyard was never repcated any where in Bengal.

Enclosed t~'pe
As the early Muslim conquerors of Bengal were of Turkish origin, Turkey is often
automatie3l1y considered to be the source of sevenli art and architectural themes.
Most of the mosqlJes built in Anatolia between the 12'b and 13t11 century was of the
enclosed type without eourty3rd, The Eshrefoghlu mosque a! Beyshehir (1297 AD),
(Fig. 2.5), the Great mosque at Silvan I Maiyafariqin (1157-58 AD) and the Great
mosqlJe at Erzurum (1179 AD) <Ire examples of the enc1o&edtype mosqucs in
Anatjolia. Most of the early alloman architecture in Turkey are modest in shape and
discarded the courtyard. However, this resemblance of the enclosed type pl3n in
Bengal with the Turkish mosques is morc obviously the result of coincidence than
that of influcnce.

One of the most conspicuous fe3tures of mosque architecture as developed in the

monsoon region of Bengal i~ the enclosed type of structure, where the courtyard was
discarded. In no par! of the sub-continent did climatic conditions play 3 more
determining role of the actual architectonic forms of the region. The n3tllre of the soil
3nd incessant nlinfal1made 3 tremendous impact on the formation of <Inenclosed type
mosque in Bengal. Similar climatic reason of dim"rent nature, say, severe clod in
some are3 of central Asia and Persia, influcneed the fonnation of single units or
domed enclosed type of mosques, such as at BlJkhara, Kaj, Dashti and Eziran, In the
words of A. U. Pope,

As in all architecture,regionalhabits and needs exercisea eertain eonlrol.

Adharbayjan,withits clod wintersprcferthe clo,ed mosque,while the south
 His/orical Overview ].4
more favored by nature, enjoys tbe more spacious open courts. [2.8, Vol, Ill,
p_ 905]

The ground floor plan of mosques derived from the basic nde of the salal that the
musallies stand in a straight line parallel to the qibla wall. To serve this basic
requirement most of the prayer halls are either oblong or square shaped, and the
circular or other polygonal fonn was discarded for mosque building. In tenns of
organization of the inner space, the enclosed typed mosques, which had been
constructed in Bengal from the thirteenth to tho sixteenth century can be further
classified into two major groups: rectangular or oblong type and square type.

2.3.1.2.1 Rectangular type

Among the large number of mosques built in Bengal during the early Islamic period,
almost half were conceived from a rectangular shaped ground plan. Most of the
mosques in and around Gaur belong to this group and they are mainly Friday mosques
for a small community. This rectangular type of mosques can be sub-divided into
three further groups: multi-unit, multi-unit with wider central aisle and multi-unit with
transept. The two groups (the multi unit and the multi unit with transept) are extended
by another small group, which contains a fore room.

Scveral aisles and bays divide the rectangular shaped prayer hall. Thc arcades
between each aisle and bay are supportcd by freestanding stone pillars, which run in
both transverse and longitudinal directions and fonn several uniform units or grids.
Each of tbese units is covcred with a semicircular dome. This type of cross-arcaded
multi-unit mosquc ,vas widely pnlcticed in the early Islamic architecture of Bengal.

Usually the arcades or the aisles run either parallel or perpendicular to qibla axis. In
most of the cases the aisles are covered with gablc roofs. The earliest known example
of arcades running perpendicular to qlbla axis is found in the AI-Aha mosque at
Jerusalem (Fig. 2.6).

2.3.1.2.2 Square type

Almost half of the mosques built during the early Islamic period of Bengal arc based
on square shaped ground plan. These square shaped mosques are very small in size
and suitable for a small community of rural sct up. The square shaped mosques can be
classified in to three groups: single unit, single unit with a fore room and multi unit.

The single unit shaped mosque is seldom seen globally, though mausoleum is very
common in square and octagonal shape. There are few examples of square shaped
single unit mosque in early Ottoman architecture (14lh century AD) in Turkey, like,
the mosque of Boca Yidgir in Inonu (1374 AD), mosque of Orhan Gazi at gebze and
Bilecik (early 14lh century) and mosque of Kasim Pasa at Edrine (1478-79 AD). In
India, the earliest kn01kTIexample of the single unit square mosque is the Molla Simla
mosque at Hoogly (1375 AD). In Bengal, the Ranbijoypur mosque at Bagerhat (1459
AD), the Shahi mosque at Bandar, Dhaka (1481-82 AD) and the Coaldi mosques at
Sonargaon are some examples for single unit square mosque.

• The mosque type of single nnit with a fore room was found in the earlier Seljuk
period in Anatolia, for example, Tas Mescid (1215-16 AD) and Siracali Mescid
(second half of thc 13'" century AD) at Konya. This type also was quite common in
 Historical Overview 2-5
early Ottoman architecture. The important examples are the mosque of Alaeddin Bey
in Bursa (1335-36 AD), the mosque ofYirldirim Bayezid in Mudurnu (1382-83 AD)
and the mosque of Firu? Aga in Istambul (1490 AD). To accommodate additional
M1Lrallie,~,a fore room is added to the small square type mosques in BengaL The
Rajbibi mosque (1437-80 AD), the Chamkatti mosque (1478 AD) and Luton mosque
(1493-1519 AD) are some examples of this type in early Islamic period in Bengal.

The multi unit square shaped mosque is very rare in Muslim world. Only a few
surviving mosques are found scattered in different regions, for example, Bu Fatata
mosque at Susa (838-41 AD), the Hajji Piyada mosque at Balkh _Afgarustan (late 9'h
century AD) etc. There are three examples of multi unit square mosque in Bengal: the
Qasba mosque at Bansal (mid 15'hcentury AD), the Masjidkur mosque at Bagerhat
(mid 15,hcentury AD) and the nine domed mosque at Bagerhat (mid 15'h century
AD), All these mosque:. followed the style of Khan Jahan Ali (R) and are almost
similar in proportion and size.

2.3.2 Multiple mihrab niches

The :.everal mihrab niches are very "Ire in the early Muslim architecture. The Great
mosque at DamaseU'; (706-15 AD) (Fig. 2.7) and the tomb of Iltutmish at Delhi
(1235-36 AD) are the earliest known and reported examples of multiple mihrab
niches in Oriental countries and India respectively.

One of the characteristics of the early Islamic architecture in Bengal was to place
several mihrab niches in the qlhla wall. The number of mihrah niches depends on the
number of entrance openings in the eastern or front wall, and the location of the
mihrab niches correspond to the central axis of the openings. The idea of placing a
niche directly opposite to the entry is reminiscent of Buddhist temple architecture,
[2.7, p. 152]. In the early medieval period, eastern India was the active centre of
Buddhism. Besides some ruined viharas or monasteries, most of the Buddhist
monuments of pre-Muslim period in Bengal have disappeared. This convention of a
niche correspondmg to an entrance or several niches in the sanctuary wall could be
taken over in the mosque architecture of Bengal.

As an architectural feature, the mihrah niche is made up of three basic clements: arch,
the sllpporting columns and capitals and the space between them. Ei!her in a flat or in
a recessed form, the mihrah niche gives the impression of a door or a doorway. The
first concave mihrah niche was introduced by Umar 'Abd al-A~ii, governor of
Medina, when he rcbuil! the Prophet's mosque (706-7 AD). After that, the
semicircular mlhrah niches rapidly spread throughout the Muslim world. After
showing thcse similarities of the Buddhist clement in the architecture of the early
Islamic period, it may be stated that indigenous Buddhist architecturc had a definite
influence on the Muslim builders.

2.3.3 Minaret lind corner turrets

According to Creswell:

In the time of Muhammadno suchthing as a minaretwas known.When he

and his followerscame to Medina they pmyed, accordingto Ibn Hisham,
without any preliminaryadhan or call to prayer. But having heard that the
Jew:.used a horn (shofar), !he ehri,li""" a naqus or clapper, they wanted
 His/orical Overview 2-6
wmething equivalent for thcit own uSe. Prophet Muhammad therefore
ordered Bibl, who was his herald, and who thus became the first mu'addhin,
to glvc thc call to prayer, whieh he was accustomed to pronounce it from the
highest roof in the neighbourhood of the mosque. [2.9, p. 5]

According to the literary evidence, the first minaret was erected under the Caliph
Mu'awiya in 665 AD, at the instance of his governor in Iraq, Ziyad b. Abihi. A stone
tower was accordingly added to the mosque at Basra- and if indeed it were a tower, it
would certainly have been the most monumental feature of that mosqLle [2.4, p. 129J.
Some examples of minarets arc shown in the Fig. 2.8 ailer Hillenbrand [2.4, pp. 130-
m].

The corner turrets have appeared in most of the desert palaces built by the Umayyads
in the beginning of the 8th century at Syria and Jordan. for example, the palace at
Gabal Sais (beginning of the 8th century), the palace at Qasr al-Hayr al-Gharbi (724-7
AD), the Palace at Qasr al-Hayr as-Sharqi (728-9 AD), and the palace of Mshatta
(743-4 AD) (Fig. 2.9). All orthose followed the old tradition of Byzantine and Roman
tortif'ied edifice. Subsequently, such corner turrets have also appeared in most of the
early North African palace, Ribat-enc1osurc and caravansaries, for instance, the Ribat
of Susa (second half of the 8th centu.ry) (Fig. 2.10), the Ribat of Mona stir (beginning
of the 9'" centu.ry) and the palace of Raqqada (mid 10th century). These turrets of the
palace and Ribat-enclosure have also transferred in some of the early Islamic mosque
buildings. The Great mosquc at Samarra (began 848-9 AD) (Fig. 2.11), the Great
mosque of al-ManSl.lr at Baghdad (766 AD) and the Great mosque at ar-Raqqa (772
AD) <Ire few exanlples of mosques containing corner turrets. All these above-
mentioned examples possess turrets in each corner and also in the intermediate half
turrets in thc sidewalls. They are mostly round in shape.

Besides the popular tradition of one turret on each comer and several intcnnediate
hall~tLlrrets in the sidewalls, there survive a few monuments in Turkey containing
only two frontal turrets, for instance, the madrasah or MLllaffar Barujirdi at Sivas
(1272-73 AD), the Gok madrasah at Sivas (1272-73 AD) and the Timarkhane at
Amasya (1308 AD) (Fig. 2.12). Turret~ have to be placed on each oftbe corner if they
act as a structural reason. However, buildings with hvo frontal turrets prove that they
were meant not <ISa structural element, but rather, they make the facade more
monumental.

The corner turret is seeu in Indo-Islamic arehiteetnre from the very beginning of the
architectural devc1opment. The Jam; mosque or Arhai-din-ka-jhompra at Ajrnir (1200
AD) and the Sultan Ghun tomb at Delhi (1231 AD) appear to be the earliest known
examples ofthe comer turrets in India. Subsequently inspired the Tughluqian builders
(Turkish origin) to imitate turrets of similar design for some of their monuments, for
instance the Khirki mosque at Delhi (1374 AD) (Fig 2.13), tomb or Rukn-I-Alam at
Multan (1320 AD). 11can be assumed thatlhe turrets in Bengal were influenced by
the Tughluq architeclLlfC.

Minaret or tower, a common feature of a conventional mosque in the Islamic world, ~

was di,carded in Bengal. The adhan is generally chanted from tlle forecourt or from
side of the prayer hall. Since most of the mosque iu Beugal were very small and
served small rural communities, no tower or miuaret was needed. Only a single
 Histor;cal Overview 2-7
minaret could serve the purpose of adhan. However, the minaret attached to the
mosques of the Islamic world are usually more than one, the rest minarets arc not
purely functionaL They were of cOl15iderablevalue to the architcehlIC of the mosque
itself, indeed, the architectural beauty of mosque rests with the beauty of its domes
and minarets. Besides, the height and massiveness of the minaret may be looked upon
as a symbol oftbe new power in a city as well as tbe glol)' of the Sultans who erected
them. Furthermore, the minaret is also a landmark to guide the worshipper to the
sacred centre.

A distinctive type oftuITet (one at each corner of the mosque building) is to be seen in
early Islamic architecture of Bcnga1. These turrets invariably fOml a part of the
buildings, and arc built either as comer strengthening or merely as omamental
appendages. However, a sharp distinction is not possible to dnlw between the mrrcts
used to strengthen the comers and those used as decorative adjuncts, because in many
instance they serve both purposes.

Some historians, however, claims that these turrets are originated from the comer post
of the runll hut. It is very difficult to accept this theory, because mrrets were
frequently used in earlier periods or Islamic architecture. Even though it can be
compared with comer post or the traditional hut. 11can be interpreted such a way that
the builders orBengal accepted such kind of architectural element, which was already
ramiliar to them. These turrets give a sense of completeness to the composition of the
four side elevations of the mosque. The mosques thus appear incomplete without the
corner turrets. The turrets were thus a ICSUItof extensive experimentation, and became
a complimental)' element or a symbolic feature of the early Islamic architecture or
Bengal [2,7 p. 158].

2.3.4 Maqsura, Dikka and Gallery

A raised platroml or a gaileI)' or an enelosed compartment in the prayer hall was not a
common feature at the beginning of the Mosque architecture. However, a change in
this respect came with the introduction of the maqsura. Maqsura is an area of a
mosque set aside for use by important personages, which is usually surrounded by an
enclosure of latticework or some kind of screen. The first maqsura may well have
been built by the Caliph Uthman in the mo~que at Medina as a protection against
attack.

There is another raised platform in the prayer hall called as dik/m, In the lager
mosques, there is usually a platform ncar the mimhar to which a staircase leads up.
This platfoIDl is used as a scat for the m"adhdhain when pronouncing the second call
to salat of jumua on Friday.

Besides these t\VOtypes of platforms (maqsura and d!kka), there appeared an enclosed
platform known as zenana or ladies gallery in the early Indian mosque architecture at
Gujrat, which is an exceptional innovation in the mosque architecture and unusual in
the rest of the Islamic ",orld. The Jam! Mosque (1422-23 AD), the Ahmad Shah
mosque (1414-15 AD), (Fig. 2.14), the Rajapur Mosque (1454-1455 AD), and the
Kapadwanj Jam! Mosque (l5ih eentul)') have instances of ladies gallery. About the
presence of women in the mosque, the Prophet (S) did not forbid women to attend
public prayers in a mosque, but pronounced that it is better for them to pray in private
[2.21 p. 89; 2.22 p. 84].

•
 Historical Overview 2-8
2.3.5 Different systems of construction
The Muslim builders of the early Islamic period of Bengal tried to introduce the
construction system or true arch and true domc. This i, a notable feature for that
period in India, because the contemporary development of the mosque architecture in
other province of India could not be treed from the traditional Hindu eonstrllctional
system, i.e., the trabiated or the post and lintel system. Tho mosqlles in Ahmadabad
are the finest examples in this regard, where tall slender pillars and the eOlUlccting
stone beam supported the roof, which is covered by the traditional Hindll corbelled
(false) dome (Fig. 2.14).

2.3.6 Domes and vaults

The prayer hall or the plaec of prostrution had to be covered by some device, to
protect the devotees from the sun and rain. In the early days, the prayer hull was
covered with a roof of palm-leaves and mud. Subsequently, in the evolution of the
mosque architecture, different types of domes were introduced. The form and number
of the dome symbolize the character of the mosque architecture as developed in
different regions ant! reveal the regional identity. For example, central domed
mo~ques in the Ottoman Architecture, four fwoll mosques in Persia consisting offour
dominating domes on four ,ides and the three domed Mughal mosquos in tndia.

Outing the evolution of the mosque architccture, the Muslim builders of Bengal had
adapted a uniform multi-domo type of mosque. Several semicircular small domcs
cover the wholc prayer hall. A change in this evolutionary prooess appeared in the
mosque" where a wider central nave, which aetcd as a transept, is covered by a long
tunnel vault, for instance, the Adina mosque at Pandua (Fig. 2.20) and the Gunmant
mosque at Gaur (.Fig. 2.15). On the other hand, where the central nave i, wider than
the flanking ones, it is covered with a ,pecial type of vault called as Chauchala dome.
The Chota Sona mosque at Gaur (Fig. 2.16 and Fig. 2.17) is an example of such vault.

The small square mosques have only a singte dome. The Eklakhi mausolewn in
Pandua the Ranbijoypur mosque at Bagcrhat and the Goaldi mosque at Dhaka arc
some examples of tho single domed mosque. The fore room of the single domed
squaqre typed mosques is covered with a combination of different types of domes and
vaults. The Rajbibi mosque at Gaur, the Sura mosque at Dinajpur and the
Sankarpasha mosque at Sylhet are some examples of three identical small domes
covering the fore room. The fore room of the Latton mosquo at Gaur is covered with a
Bengali Chauchafa dome in the centre and a small dome on each side. The fore room
of the Chamkalti mosque at Gaur is oovered by threo-grained vault (Fig. 2.18), which
is unique in Bengal. Another exceptional example is the Masjidbari mosque at Barisal
where the fore room is covered by a long Chauchala vault (Fig. 2.19).

2.4 Chronological Development in Bangladesh

2.4.1 Introduction
As a heritago, Bangladesh had two religions _ Hinduism and Buddhism. These two
beliefs, with the patronization of tho rulcrs, developed an architectural vocabulary in
terms of different religions edifices to express the theological theme and aspirations.
Since the emergence of the Muslim community in Bangladesh at the dawn of 13'"
eenlury, a difi"erent architectural approach was initiated which was evident for their

• I'
 Historical Overview 2-9
religious objectives. Muslims built mosques with the use of imported fcatures
modified and customi7ed by local culture, climate, traditiou, matenals, and
technology. The objective and approach of mosque architecture has been changing
over time, according to the desires of the ruling cla,;s or the common people. The
followiug paragraphs briefly presents the tangible evidcnccs of the changing
morphology of mosque architecture in course of timc, and identifies the influencing
factors.

2.4.2 Architectural Heritage

The distinguishable architectural heritagc of Bangladesh dates back to the 3rdcentury
Be. From that period, two major religions - Hinduism and Buddbism were dominant
and any type of physical development was distinguishable by the religion-based
politics. The architectural remains of that period are basically religious buildings,
pcrhaps as the domestic structurcs of that time were considered as less significant and
were buill of less permanent materials. The mostly dilapidated Buddhist monasteries
and Hindu temples can stIlI convey an idea of architectural characteristics. The
articulation of space, functional solution, orientation, climatic considerations,
geometric configuration, usc of local materials, building construction technique, sense
of proportions and other aspects of architc<:turcprove that the builders of Bengal
during the ancient times were sensitivc to the highest demands architecture.

The advent of Islam in Bengal in the 13th century was somewhat of different
charactcristics from the rest of India. For India, it was a political and military
conquest over the Hindu dominion, whereas in Bengal, it occurred with less political
and social upheavals, because orthe conversion of upper cla,;s Bengalis to Islam long
before the invasion [2.19, pp. 17-24]. Becausc or the long heritage of the Buddhist
and Hindu periods, this region devcloped a rich architectural vocabulary of its own.
On the other hand, when the Muslims mvaded India, they alrcady possessed a highly
developed style of mosque architecture, distinguishable by the mihrab. arches, domes,
minarets, corncr turrets, profuse ornamental dctails and other features common in
mosques. Such architectural features imported by Muslims, together with the
prevailing vocabulary of architecture of the region, gave birth to an Islamic
architc<:turalstyle, unique in many ways. The climate, available local materials and

2.4.3 Phases of Evolutiou

A reasonable degree of synthesis of the prevailing Hindu and Buddhist architecture
with the approaches by Muslims has sct a new dimension for the Islamic architecture
of this region. An Indo-Islamic slyle of Bengal flourished in mosque architecture. The
newly introduced architectural features presentcd by Muslims such as mihrab, domes,
arches, minarets, turrets, ornamentation and the extrovert nature of thc mosques
clearly distinguish mosque architecture from temple architecturc, though in many
ways the Islamic architectnre of Bengal was influenced by prcvailing Hindu styles.
Throughout the Indian subcontinent mosque architeeturc bas distinctive provincial
styles characterized by indigenous art, tradition, culture, local climate, availability of
matcrial, and perfoIDlancesof highly skilled local artisans.

The mosquc architecture of Bengal is bascd fundamentally upon the building tradition
of western and central Asia [2.17, p. 75]. Yet, Muslims wcre reccptive to local
potentials and the outcome was thc creation of a unique architeeturc combining local
skills, craftsmanship, and material with already accepted traditions. Through the
 His/oric,,1 Overview 2-10
analysis and examination of architectural elements, forms, layout, and building
material, the mosque architecture of Bangladesh can be categorized under the
following four phases.

(1) The early-Islamic or pre-Mughal or Sultanate period (1204-1576 AD),

(2) The Mughal period (1576-1757 AD),
(3) The British colonial period (1757-1947 AD) and
(4) The contemporary period (1948 to date).

2.4.3.1 The Pec-Mughal or Sultanate Period

Mosques were a new building type introduced to Bengal during the Sultanate period.
Although the initial design ideas were imported from the West, a unique local
architectural style rapidly devcloped [2.14, p. 253]. Though Bengal later became a
province in the Mughal Empire, earlier it enjoyed independent rule for about three and
a half centuries. It was during this early period when the architecture of Bengal
flourished and developed its own identity.

Four features serve collectively to differentiate the mosques built during the Sultanate
period in Bangladesh. These features represent the modification of mosque design to
accorrunodate the local cultural and environmental conditions of Bangladesh. The
minaret has become one of the identifying features of mosque architecture in
Bangladesh. Besides its primary function to ensure that adhan (call for prayer) can be
heard from the maximum distance, it acts as a local landmark. It was not until the
fourteenth or fifteenth centuries that the building of minarets became universal in
Bangladesh [2.13, p. 40]. In pre-Mughal and Mughal mosques of Bangladesh, with a
few exceptions such as the Shat (sixty) Gumbad (dome) Mosque of the mid-fifteenth
century, there was an absence of minarets. Local scholars have attempted to explain
this circumstance from several different viewpoints. Some say the minaret had been
deliberately rejected in earlier mosques of Bengal, as it was not found in mosques of
Medina during the prophet's time. Another group of scholars suggests a geographical
explanation. Most of Bangladesh i, characterized by flat land and denRevegetation.
Thus, minarets were not easily visible from any distance and therefore they had
limited utility to mark the location of the structure.

This design appears to be a case of cultural borrowing. The sb~ of each of these
mosque dOOTll is also instructive. Elsewhere the doors are large, e~pecial1yvery tall,
but in Bangladesh the doors are quite small even though large, false archways are
traced on the facade of the structure. This change in mosque design is an arehitectunl1
adaptation to the climate of Bengal, where monsoon rains would penetrate the interior
if dooT1.vayswere tall and large.

In most cases the site or a mosque includes a pond or a large tank. In the low-lying
countryside of Bangladesh the pond is a by-product of the mosque construction
process. Large amounts of earth were needed to raise the land level for construction
and to secure the site from penodie flooding. Also, large quantities of clay were
required to provide the raw material for making bricks. Except in city mosques where
land is scarce, most mosques have large ponds. City mosques have only small
ablution tanks or water taps,

•
 His/oncal Oven'iew 2-1 I
The most readily available building material on the riverine and dclta lands in Bengal
is clay. The mosque architecture in Bengal shows the wide acceptance of brick a~ a
bllilding material. In other parts of India stone was the primary structural material.
The mosques of pre-Muglml Bengal not only used brick as a con<;truetion material,
but also the exterior was ornamented with brick and terra-cotta decoration, which was
also common in temple architecture at that period.

Ambitious planning, distinctive architectural features such as the pointed arch, a

curvilinear roof and cornice, carved brick designs, and glazed tile decoration, mark
the pre-Mughal mosques of Bengal. Pre-Mughal mosques of Bangladesh may be
classified in fOIlTseparate groups:

(a) The vault and domed type,

(b) The square-domed type,
(c) The oblong multi-domed type, and
(d) The hut-shaped or curvilinear type.

(II) The Vault and Domed Type

Hemispherical roof domes without drums, corner towers, curved battlements, stone
caning, and the use of glazed tiles characterizes this type. The Adina Mosque at
Ha7.rat Pandua is a distinctive cxample of the earliest design phase.

The large open courtyard at the centre of the structure is surrounded by an oblong
liwan (shaded portico) (Fig. 2.20). The design rep one introduced into Bangladesh
from a drier environment. Rapidly however. mosque builders accommodated the local
monsoon climate by changing the original design to cover over the open courtyard a
series ofhcmisphenc domes similar to those of the liwan. Such a change necessitated
the breaking up of the central unobstructed space by a series of columns or pillars to
support the roof dome (Fig. 2.21).

The phenomenon of an arehed facade was introduced in Bengal during the Sultanate
period. The vault over the nave of the mosque is one of the earliest attempted in Indo-
Muslim architecture (Hasan 1979, 72). Currently in a dilapidated condition, this
mosque illustrates brick-and-stone construction, where stone is use veneer to conceal
the brickwork of the core.

(b) Square-Domed Roof Type

The square-domed roof type of mosque from the pre-Mughal phase is distinguished
by a cubical prayer hall (with or withollt antechamber), comer to"ers, wall paneling
with offsets and recesses, mihrab projections in thc qibla wall, curved cornice, stone
casing, stnceo design, glazed tiles, and moldings.

An excellent example is the LaUan Mosque at Gaur (1475). It consists of a 34 ft.

square room with an 11 ft. deep antcehamber (Fig. 2.22). There arc three arched
entrances on the east. The battlements and cornice are vcry gently ctlrved, above
which ri,e the three do the veranda and the large dome over the central hall. The
domes of/he verandah are of the ehauchala (four-~ided roof) type.

The four circular comer towers in the Lattan Mosque are characteristic feattlres for
prc-Mughal mo~ques. The curvilinear cornice, which is typical of later Bengali
 Hi,ior;ca! Overview 2_/2
architecture, appears fIrst in this mosque. The whole surface of the mosque was
initially covered with gla~ed tiles in geometric patterns, but thcsc havc mostly
disappeared.

(c) Oblong Multi-Domed Type

Typical architcetural components of this typology include rectangular plan, aisles,
bays, hemispherical domes, pointed-arched entrance, curved cornicc, corner towers,
panelled walls, stonc casing, jali (semi"transparent screens) windows, stucco and
glazed tiles stone chiselling. The Mosque of Baba Adam at Rampal, Dhaka (1483
AD) is an excellent example. This six-domed congregational mosque has an oblong
plan measuring 43 ft. x 36 ft. It is divided into two aisles by a three-arched colonnade
running longitudinally (Fig. 2.23). The mosque incorporates a number of beautifully
carved stone pillars. It also has a curved cornice and octagonal corner towers. The
mosque is renovated, and the old ornamcntation has unfortunately disappeared.

(d) The lIut-Shaped or Curvilinear Type

The architcet~ of pre-Mughal Bengal experimented with a unique roof structure
commonly known as the hut-shaped or curvilinear roof. At an early period Bcngalis
evolved curved types of roofs madc of bamboo and recds to cover their humble
cottages. The curvilinear form allowed nexible materials to assume shapes facilitating
rapid drainage in this region of heavy monsoon rainfall. These roofs usually took two
forms: do-chala (two roofs), chau-chala (four roofs). These forms of roof stTllClUre
wcrc tran~latcd into hrickwork in permanent structures, and then in later periods
incorporated into mosques, tombs, and temples of Bengal. Such roofs have been
termed the "Dangla roof'.

The Chhoto Sana Mosque (1493-1519 AD) pro~ides an e~ample. The interior of the
mosque is divided into three longitudinal aisles and fIve bays by stone pillars. The
middle bay, which is larger than the side ones, is roofed over by thrce Bengali
(chauchala) roofs. The side bays arc covered by hcmisphcrical domcs, the interiors of
which show decoration copied from bamboo framework, a design, which emphasizes
the local character of the domc [2.12, p. 13H]. The mosque has an open court and an
arehcd gateway. The exterior of the brick walls ISfaced with grey basalt, the surface
ofwhieh is carved to emulate contempOHiryteTTa-COtta design [2.15, p. 162].

2.4.4.2 The MUi:hal Period

Indo-Islamic architcetural stylcs started in the imperial capitals of Delhi, Agra, and
Fatehpur Sikri in the sixteenth century and appeared in the provinces as these areas
were brought under the Mughal Empire. Although in every provincial context there
were special features rooted in the vernacular tradition, thc Mughal style in mosque
architccture had a univcrsality that i~ recognized throughout. In contrast to the
buildings of the Sultanate period, which are characterized by regional identity,
Mughal mosques followed an imperial tradition. The principal elements introduccd by
the Mughal architects wcre dominant central domes and tall axial entrances. Arches
became graceful; four cantered arche, were introduced instead of the earlier two
arches. Reiterated pla.>terpanels replaced traditional terracotta art. Straight, horizontal
panels substituted for thc curvcd cornices of the prc-Mughal strueturcs.

Bengal became a province or the Mughal Empire and was ruled from Delhi by the
governors ofRengal (1576). Although the Mughals are termed 'the great builders" in
 His/orical Overview 2_/3
the history of Indian architecture, their efforts in Bengal were subdued compared to
the ongoing contemporary architecture being practiced el~ewhere in the subcontinent
The Mughals disrupted the Bengali architectural tradition that had been generated
during the pre-Mughal period. The traditional expression of brickwork with terracotta
decoration was abandoned for the use of plastered surfaces. The typical three-domed
mosques or the Mughal period replaced the multi-domed mosque~ of pre-Mughal
times, Mughal mosques are c1a,sifie<1in the following four categories according to the
varying ground plans and roofing patterns:

(a) The single-domed type,

(b) The bungalow type,
(c) The three-domed type, and
(d) Mosques on a raised plalfonn.

(a) Tbe Single-Domed Type

Perhaps the best example is the Allakuri Mosque (1680 AD), which is located by (he
Sal-masjid Road in the Muhammadpur Colony. It has a square plan with projecting
fronts at the middle of each side, which provided doorways ror the east, north, and
south sides (Fig. 2.24). Four comer towers are each erovilled by a plastered kiosk and
parapet. The thickness or the wall keeps the interior cool. The dome is earried on
squinches and is crowned by a fmia! (Fig. 2.25). The dome comes into its 0\Y1lwith
the Mughals and the influence of Persian design is clearly seen. It also provides an
easily recognizable symbol of empire.

(b) The Bungalow Type

Churihatt.1Mosque (1649 AD) may be taken as a typical example. It is characterized
by a ehauchala roar rather than domes, and has an oblong plan with four corncr
towers. Three dool"\vays,fanned by two successive arches, provide entrance from the
eastern sidc. Thc facadcs arc decorated with pands and a straight parapet.

(c) The Three-Domed Type

The most common type of Mnghal mosques in Bengal is the rectangular three-domed
mosque. Either all the domes were uniform or the central dome was larger than the
other two. Such a mosque style had its roots in Persia. One of the finest examples of
this kind, where the central dome is larger, i~the Lalbagh Fort Mosque (1678-79 AD).
With an oblong plan (Fig. 2.25), the structure is roared over by three Outed, bulbous
domes, resting on drums. Cusped arches adorn three entrance doorways. The facade is
decorated with rectangular pands. Fonr octagonal towers, capped by cupolas, buttress
the mosque. Parapets are straight instead of the curvilinear cornice of pre-Mughal
types.

(d) Mosques on Ii Raised Platform

The Khan Muhanmlad Mirdha Mosque (1704-05 AD) stands on a 16.5 ft. raised
platform, supported by a series of vaulted chambers. Of rectangular plan, it is a three-
domed type with the prayer chamber in the upper floor level. The terrace is
approached from the cast by a flight of steps in front of the hall. The corner minarets
arc terminated with ribbed cupolas. Three squat-shouldered domes cover the roof.
Facades are ornamented with panelling. The interior of tbe hall is divided into three
bays by two lateral arches, each containing a decorated mihrab. ,
•
•
"- ,
,
 Hi,,/orical Overv;ew 2-14
The mosque architecture of the Mughals was terminated by the arrival of the British.
Mughal political collapse was rellected in a general decline in arts, including
architecture.

2.4.4.3 Mosque Design During the British Colonial Period

The architectural legacy of the British colonial period in Bangladesh is not very rich.
In Bengal during the middle of the eighteenth century, the western region, particularly
the areas in and around Calcutta, was the main focus of political and administrative
power (Ahmed 1986,22). The eastern part, which later became Bangladesh with its
largely rural area, was neglected for about two centuries or Briti,h rule. From a
completely difTerent culture, tradition, religion, and baekb'I"OUnd,the British rulen;
were always treated as alien, never bemg accepted by the local people. The British
imported a new style of architecture. Among the religious buildings, the Christian
Missions under the patronization of the government built a number of churches.
Mosque architecture in Bangladesh, after the dechne of the Mughals, was exposed to
this new influence.

No longer the product of direction and patronage of the ruling class, mosques had
become an architectural expression of the common people. Mosques built within this
period were mostly initiated and supported by locally inlluential people. The period
did not generate any specific innovative design characteristics. Most mosques
followed the common Mughal style of a three-domed structure with an oblong plau
and octagonal corner towers. A few, however, are significant for their extensive and
elaborate ornamentation.

One of the most ornate and attractive mosques of Dhaka built during the colonial
period is the Tara Ma'if;J (Star Mosque). Originally constructed in the late eighteenth
century, it was renovated and given an impressive look during the early twentieth
century. It was initially a three-domed mosque with octagonal comer towers, the
middle dome larger than the othen;. During the renovation, a northern extension was
added with two more domes, which were completely irrelevant to the entire structure.
Both the interior and the exterior of the mosque are highly decorated with colored
tiles in various geometric patterns. TmportedJapanese materials and China tile, were
used for the ornamentation.

2.4.4.4 Contemporary Mosque Architecture

With the partition of the snbeontinent in 1947, Baugladesh (then East Pakistan)
entered into a new era of de~elopmen1. Building activities during this period have
been mostly utilitarian. Mosques have experienced two major trends in their
architectural methods and development" which can be categorized as,

(a) Mosques erected by the common people

(b) Mosques designed by formally trained architect,.

(a) Mosques Erected by the People

Mosques are a part of the social life of the people of Bangladesh. They act as a
community centre and are a landmark for a eommnnity. To meet the religious
requirement of congregational prayers five times a day, residents of a community
need a mosque within walking di,tanee. This necessity encourages them to take
initiatives to creet mo,ques within each locality. Wealthy local people may support
 Historical Overview 2-15
these community mosques, but all other members of the community contribute tov.'llrd
the construction, according to individual capability and desire. In most cases the
builder or the designer of the mosque is guided by gene,,11religious norms for the
mosque design.

Because of economic constraints, ,carcity of land, and the absence of the involvement
of trained designers, architectural features and form, in most of the cases, are
neglected. Such mosques are usually constructed in stages depending on the
availability of funds. Construction starts with building a simple shelter of temporary
or semi-pennanent nature, and gradually develops to the final stage with additions of
different architectural components. A tall minaret is oftcn considered essential as it
makcs the mosque a landmark for the locality.

These neighbourhood mosques often expand vertically due to limitation of land. As

they arc initially developed in response to a common necessity and develop through
different phases of construction, the planning and design issues are not well
considered. AE,a result, the final product often lacks aesthetic appeal. In most
instances, domcs and minarets are not plaeed in what would be considered the proper
place in the view of professionally trained architects. Minarets, sometimes springing
from the roof, are visually isolated from the remaining structure. Bairns Sajudjami
.Masjid is one such example. Though the architectural and formal aspects of these
mosques are not appealing, most are highly decorated with geometric and formal
patterns and calligraphic inscriptions on their exterior facades, minarets, semi-
transparent screens, window bars, and noors.

These mosques are far more than merely a place of worship and the product of the
participatory effort'; of the common people. Architecturally, they feature elements
from Mughal styles and exploit thc contemporary building technology and matcrials.
These mosques, being a symbol of the society, represent the spirit of the common
peoplc, and are a spontaneous expression oflbe people's notion of architecture.

(b) Mo;ques Designed b)' l'ormaUy Trained Architects

In recent years, formally trained architects have designed an increasing numbcr of
mosqucs. Analysis of these mosques reveals the architects' interpretation of the
archetype. They are generally b'Uided by concepts evolved trom religiou,>
perspectives. Architects emphasize the sequence of spaces according to the function,
axial adherence in plan, and openness and clarity ofthc forms of a mosque. A simple
and rational approach to the interprctation of a mosque is the contemporary trend,
which has been initiated in the early 1960s when the Baitul Mukarram Mosque was
built (Appendices, A.2). Its plan was modelled on the holy Kaaba and also shows
many fascinating features of Moorish architecture such as tal1, slender pillars and
horseshoe arches. The four-story praycr haH is designed as a cube and set on a high
podium. This monumental religious structure is a significant landmark in Dhaka.

At the present time, professional architects arc morc concerned with the concept of
fOrnl and space and the scale of the structure, rather than surface ornamentation.
Fragmented exterior surfaccs designed with familiar elements are employcd to bring
the building down to human scale, instead of a monumental or overwhelming exterior (
treatment. Savar Memorial Mosque in Dhaka District is a good cxample of such
practices. Another structure, Purto Bhaban Mosque in Dhaka explores the plastic

•
 Historical Oven-iew 2-1 r5
nature of concrete and play, with clarity of space and quality or light and shade as
well (Appendices, A.2). Other examples may be found where architects abandon the
wcll-e~tablished nonn of dome and minaret. Damra Factory Mosque near Dhaka and
the mosque at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute at Ga7ipur show such
avoidance of traditional approaches.

On the other hand, some contemporary architects are exploring traditional architecture
in terms of form, features, and the use of material and construction methods for
designing mosques. The Rural Development Academy Central Mosque at Bogra and
Babhi Bazaar Mosque at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology
in Dhaka are built with exposed bricks, which is an indigenous material of
architecture of this region. Different experiments with the archetype reveal various
aspects throlJgh which architects arc trying to explore the available resources and at
the same time consider the traditional and fundamental concepts of mosque
architecrnre. The role of professional architects is encouraging because they arc
dealing ,ensitively with an archetype with 800 year, of history,

2.5 Conclusion
It is very difficult to relate satisfactorily the styles of mosquc architecture of d, ITerent
rcgion in terms of origin and morphology of building components. In mosque design,
one can study any particular form or component in details from the books listed in
bibliography in the Appcndices. But one should keep in mind that anything interesting
and having cvidence ol"profuse application in later part of history or mosque may not
be acceptable in the judgement of theology, practice and fundamental intent set by the
Prophet (S). As for example, minaret i, added, in most of the cases, to intensil"y the
monumentality and image of this building type. The spirit and intent ,hould always
supersede the superfluous formal approach - it is especially significant for designing a
mosque.

In congested urban set-up of Bangladesh, to put on some attire of distinction, the

mosques arc designed with some slJperficial elements like false arches, non-structlll"al
domes and profuse ornamentation. Architects are gradually getting involved in the
design process, Some of the mosque~ designed by fonnally trained architects reflect
the intrinsic meaning, objectivity and tradition, On the contrary, many of those
mosques severely fail to accomplish these issues. Moreover, theological justifications
are little explored and implemented.

References
[2.1] H, A. R. Gibb and J, H. Kramers, Shorrer Encyclopaedia oIlslam. E. J. Brill, Leiden,
Netherlands, 1961.
[2.2] The Alim For Windows, Shahid N. Shah, Computer CD Ven-ion, Release 4,5, ISL
Software Corporation, USA, 1996.
[2.3] AI"Qur'anul Karim, Computer CD, Version 6.31, Sakhr Software, 1996. •
[2.4] Hillenbrand, Rohen; Islamic archilecture: FOI71l,FunctiOn and Meaning, Edinburgh'
University Pre", UK, 1994.
[2.5] Islam, Mohammad Anwarul, Possihle Influence ofReligiom Edicts on the Design of
Mosques and other Buildings in the Earliest Period ofIslam, pp. 51-70, Proceeding.
01"the Symposium on Mosque Architecture (30 January-3 February, 1999), King
Saud Unlvers;ty, KSA, 1999.
 Historical Overview 2-17
[2.6] Khan, M Muh,in, Hadith Summarized Sahih Ai-Bukhari, Dar-us-Salam Publicalion"
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[2.7J Ahmed, Abu Sayc<:d Mll-"htaque, The Choto Sona Mosque in Gaur, An Example of
Early islamic Archilecture of Bengal, Instltut Fur Baugeschichte Ocr Univer,itat
Karlsruhe, Germany, 1997.
[2.8] Pope, A. U., A Sun'ey of Per"ian An. Vol. I-Vnr, Oxford, 1939,
[2,9] Creswell, K. A. C. I Allan, J. W., A "horl Account of Early Muslim Architecture,
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[2.10] Ahmed, Nazimuddin, Architectural ugacies of the British Period, In Building,< of Ihe
iJriti,h Raj in Bangladesh, edited by J. Sandy, 22-68. Dbaka: University Press, 1986.
[2.11] Bari, M, Abdnl, Mughal Mosque of Dhaka: A Typology Study. In Dhaka Past,
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[2.12] D"ni, Ahmed Hasan. 1961. Muslim Archilecture in Bengal, Dhaka: Asiatic Sociely
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[2.13] Frishman, Marlin. 1994. Islam and the Form of Mo'que. In The Mosque: History,
Architectural Deveiopment and Regional Diversity. edited by M. Frishman and H.
Khan, 17-41. umdon: Thames and Hudson.
[2.14) Hasan, Parween. 1984. Suitallate Mosque Type,< in Ballgladesh: Origins and
Development. Ph.D. diss., Harv"rd Univenmy. 1994.
[2.15] Hasan, P"nveen. 1994.Thc Indian Subcontinent. In The Mosque: HL,!OfY.
Archileelural Development and Regional Diversity, edited by M, Frishman ""d H.
Khan, 159-179. London: Thames and Hndson,
[2.16] Hasan, Syed Mahmudul. 1979. Mosque Archilec/Ure of Pre-Mughal Bellgal. Dhaka:
UniverSlly Press.
[2,17] Muktadir, M.A. et al. 1990. Religious Buildings. In Contemporary Architecture of
Ballgladesh, edited by SA lahiruddin el aI., 73-79, Dhaka, Institute of Architects
Bangladesh.
[2.18] Qure,hi, Ishtiaq Hussan, 1955. Architecture. In The Cui/ural Herilage of Pakistan,
ediled by S.M. Ikram, 33-44, Karachi: Oxford University Preas.
[2.19] Zahlruddin, Shah Alam et al. 1990, Political and Cultural Influence. In
Comcmporary Architecture of Ballgladesh. edited by S.A. Zahiruddin ct aI., 15-27,
Dhaka: In"titute of Architects Bangladesh.
[2.20] Islam, Ishwt ""d Noble, Allen G.; Mosque architecture in Bangladesh: The
Archetype and 11.<Challging Morphology, Journal of NatIOnal Geography, Vol. 17,
No.2, September 1998, pp. 5-25.
[2.21] NiLam, Maolana Shaikh, Fatawa-i-Alamgiri, Vol. i, 2"' Ed.,Maktaba-i-Majediya,
Pakistan, 1983,
[2.22] Ushas, Solaiman Ibn Abu Daud Shijistani; Ahu Daud Sharif, Vol.!, Maktaha.i_
Ashrafiya, UP, India.

I !said, "0 Allah's Apo'tid Which mosque was first buill on the ,unace of the earth?" He said, "AI_
M••jid-ul-lIru-mn(in Mecca).'" I ,aid, "Which w•• built next?" He replied "The m0"lue of Al-Aqsa ( in
Jerusalem)." !said, "What wa, the penod of construction between tne two?" He said, "Forty years." He
added, "Wherever (you may be, and) the prayer lime !:>eeOffie, due, perform the prayer there, for the
!:>estt1ung is to do so (i.c tu offer lne prayers in time)." (Narrated by Abu Dh.r, Hadltb 4,585, Sahih
AI-Bukhan l!fldith) [2,2. ,carch result for 'first mosque'].

2 75 years after dIe deceasc of Prophet (S).

•
 Figure 2-1

Fig. 2.1 House of the Prophet (S) and the first mosque In Islam {2.4. p. 39J.

, •,
,
" II, ,, ,
i
.
,
(i!
, .,
it!
~, I
! 1

I'" <.",,, I
L..==J! ~I
~
'---~'---'-1
"""l',
Fig. 2.2.a Plan of the hmI.,e of Fig. 2.2.b Re--arranged plan Fig. 2.2.c Extensions dnring
the Prophet (,) ami the mosque with the change of qibla in 534-644 AD and 644-656 AD
in 622 AD {l.5, p. 55J. 632 AD {2.5, p. 55}. [2.5, p. 56}.

I
---~
lll'-
:1 ~ =;-" I

n;=l
i-- =1
I
Fig. 2.3.3 Plan of the Prophet's (S) mosque in Fig. 2.3.b Aerial view of the present mosque of"...
1987 AD. {In/ernel Web page. URL- the Prophet (s). [Tn/erne/ Web PageJ ,.
http://users.erols.cmn/mccmdhnasjidnabvLhrmJ

,
 Figu~e2-II

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Fig, 2.5 The Esbrcfoghlu moselle at

Beyshehir: Ground plan [after 2.7, p. 145]

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Fig. 2,6 The AI-Aba mosque at Jeru,alern, Fig. 2.7 The Great mosque at Damascus:
Ground plan fl. 7. p. 76J. Ground plan {2. 7. 1'. 146}

• •
 Figure 2 -llI

Fig. 2.8 Example of differenl lype, of min"re!.< found in different countries. fl,4, p, 131J

, 0
I, •
, ~,
• • •
Fig.2.9 The palace ofMshatla: Ground plan fl, 7.
p,156J.
,.,.•.•..•..
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C.HH.HI

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Fig. 2.11 The Grcal mosque ofSamarru: Ground Fig. 2.12 The Timarkhana al Aamsya:
plan /2.7, p. 156{ Birds eye view /2. 7. p. 157J
 Flgun'l.IY

..

....~
,..;'~
1, '"'

:ii
Fig. 2.13 The Khirld mosqc al Delhi: Fig. 2.14 The Ahmed 5Mb mosque II Ahrnadab:Kl: A
Gmundpl.n/2.J.p.1Jlj ongitudin.1 seclion through the ladies gallery fl.]. p.
J6j}.

Fig. 2.15 ~ Gunmanlll105Clle, Gaur: Fig. 2.16 l1x Chota Son. ~uc: Front \iew of.
Tun",,] vaull OVer InlnSCpl or centml Chauchal. '"lIUll{l.], p. 71j.
ni<1c{1.7.p./79j.

•
 Figure 2-V

fig. 2.17 The Chota Sona mosque: Comer view of a Fig. 2,]8 The Chamkatti mosque at
Chauchala vault [2.7, p, 72J Gaur: Groin ,aull in the [are
room {2,7.p, 1781

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••••

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00 0
o

Fig. 2.19 The Masjidbari mo,que at Mirzagonj: Chauchala Fig. 2.20 Floor plan of the Adina
vault in the fore_room f2, 7. p. 179J Mosque {2.n. p, 5f/1

•
 Figuul- VI

'" ---.-
~. ..
Fig. 2.21 Floor plm of the Shail Gambuj MMqU( p.?, Fig. 2.22 Floor 9lan ofth(
p.105J Lllton MMqU( fl.?, p. 119J

I:;]

-$ \--~. _l ~ : .. ...:._..:~. "'" •• ,~

Ek\"I11ionIIJld Set'tion (pan)

Fig. 2.23 Floor phm of the Blba A<hm Mosqu( fl.?, p. Fig. 2.24 Plan, (I(VDlion lllId
179J section of!h( Allakuri Mosqllll
fl.Jl,pp. 195. 196J
 Fig"re 2 -Yll

fig. 2.25 Floor plan of the Lalbag Fort Mosque {2.l1j.

Fig. 2.26 The Star Mosque, famous for its ornamentation {Intn1e1J
 ,.
-~~_.
-

,------._ _~.~.---,---,-.
...~._~-~-~
..

/
Chapter TH REE
Field Study
- .
•
•••.
'---------~~~~
.,
r
 Fil'ld Study J. 1

Chapter THREE: Field Study

3.1 Introduction
1~lam is proclaimed and proved to be:the religion suilllble for all varied regional and
socinl conte.'l. For mosque design, lhere is no strict bindings or directives on the
detail issues, which may contllldict to local issues like climale, mnterinl. building
leclmology etc, The design process follows some major theological guidclinC$ and
certnin practical aspects. In a view to e)(plore the practicaillspc:cts to be IJIken care of
in the design eonsidemtion, study is conducted on some mosques nlready under
function, This chapter is intended to portmy the existing situalion of those mosque~
and some practical information relevnntto formulaIc the design criteria and SlJlndnrds
in hannony with the theological guidelines.

3.2 Scope
A considerable "number of mosques are serving about 93.88 million (88.3% of 101Jl1)
Muslim populalion of Bangladeshi, It is neither possible in the gh'en scope and
objectives of this thesis nor justified by the principles of slJItistics to lIlIc:eall the
mosques for ellSC:study. A pilot suryey on II limited number of mosques. detCTTllined
by slJltistical sampling.. Wll~eondueled to explore the different features of mosques in
Bangladesh. The finding~ helped to identify the lI\IlIilable lypes lind their special
featuTCS,These features are ultimately used to select the ell.~C!lfor detailed study. The
en..'e-mosquC!lrepresetlt the differenl fenlUres of mosques of Bnngladesh.

3.3 Methodolog>'
A pilot ~urvey is conducted on a sample size of 131 mosques, determined by
statistienl method. Those mosques are vi~ited ph)'liieally to identify different fenturcs.
A number of 25 mosques are selected for cao;e study from the mosques taken for pilol
survey. The mosques in the ClIse study representllll the features found in pilot sun'ey.
A detailed study is conducted on those CMe mosquC$ to explore their historical.
physical nnd functional features to formulate design criterifl nnd SlMdards. The
methodology can be briefed in the following now dingmm:

3.3.1 S.mpllng
For 8 large population, the sample size formula i~[3.6, pp. 72-85]:

,
 Wh=.
•
--
n "" SI'Imple size to be estimated
-,-.-'••.•.". Field Stud)' J. 2

P" Proportion to be ~limaled

z" SllIndnrd nonnal value 1.96 for S% !eve:! ofsignificanct •
e" admissible error for lhe estimate of'p'

Considering, p - 0.30 for any specific type: of mosque and c - 0.08, which will give
lU1estimate of p wilb :t SOl", i.e., confidence interval of :t 8%. This wide confidence
inlervfll seems reasonable since the primary objective of the study is to lind the
represcntlltivc types of mosques in whole Bangladesh, where the precision of the
estimated proportions oreach type is not equally important.

Therefore, the SlImplc size required is,

0.3 x D.h (1.96) I
,<--------
(O.OS) •
or, n '" 126.0525.= 126

3.3.2 Pilot SUrH~)'

A lotal number of 131 mosqucs an:: surveyed from different parts ofBl1l1gladesh. This
,• number salislie,~ the required sample size (i.e., 126) dctcnnined by sllllistiCllI SlImpling
method. The following Tnble 3.3.2.n 1iSl~nil these mosques for pilot survey. The
nuthor \isiled nil these mosques to study the historical, physienl nnd fUnetionnl
nspects. Lilemture SUlVeyis nlso conducted to crosscheck eertnin issues like histoncnl
ooekgmund nnd gmdual development oflhe mosques.

Tnble 3.J.2.ft Mosques for pUot surn)'

S1. Name of the Mosque .-- Locntion ._--.
No. (i\muIS«! in lbe oscending&1 (7ha~annd Zila)
I Abdullahpur Mmque Tongi, Gnzipur
2 Adamdighi Jami M ue Adamdig!!i So
3 Aminuddin H"7.iBarhi M ue B~!!!!!!, Haffil:!na
4 Amlll'!'rhi M~\lC KOt08ti M~insh
5 Amlnli lami M~ue B n.n B lUI
6 Artdar illn lami M~ue Andar ill Chitta&2!!&
7 A tlIbuddin Chninnnn IJarhi M~ue Ran ur Rnn ur
g A ui", c.l.!IteM uc POlu3kh3.liPOlUllk.."li
9 B.C.l.C. Sl.!IfTQuarterMosque Mi Dhakn
10 Bob:!Adam ~c Mumhie, Munshig~j
II Boitul Ahod 1\1 ue Baufal PalUllkhllli
12 Rnilul Amin M uc Chand ur,
13 Bnilul MukDmmlM uc MOli"hed Dhaka "' •••••••
14 BnilulMush:nmfM uc Mi ur Dhaka
15 Bakshibaur RMd 1\1 ue R4 Dhaka
16 BnJallUiFakir Barbi M~ue Ran UT,Rnngpur
17 Ban.l!JaB3ZIITM~uc BItoI Bboln
18 Bani: Town M~ue SIV1IJ Dlmh
19 Barha M~ue at Mahaj!!!!p!ni BItoI Bbola
20 Barha M~ue KOlOaliM ~ngh

,
•
 .-~'
• ,,
;.e_1 -t ,.> 'I Field Srudy 3- 3

Name of the Mosque Location

Amln od in (he x>Il:cndinal habetiClllorder) (TllallQ and Zlla
Bllf'O' unio lami M~e Chandfll lUI RAn Ii
B M~. Shiddhi 'Nartl e
Bcri~hur MO<ljlIc Muharrunad ur DimkD
I DUET Central M ue l.lltb:l • DhllkD
I Burllikhali Bus Stand M ue INllfllit Nar1Iit
Bus Stand M ut Baufal Pntuakhali
Bus StandM I'atuakhnli Pntuakltali
Bus Station M ue FaridJl!!, FaridIJur
Chair8ami M~u. Bhola Bhola

, Chalabllndh 10m; M~e

Ch•.•Cololl:!,:M.kld M~ue
Gulshari Dhaka
B!!!!1:! Ba lUI
Chlllu\:Ga.i.M~. Bars!! Ba J1lI
Chholll Sona M c Shib an' NaW1l n
Chiltllg~g OJ.T. M ue Rnn ia OJitl.n on
Chunlaltia Jam; M uC Kcnmi 'an' Dhabi
Coil eM ue Pir ach R.ltn8l'ur
CounM ue Mai'dieou Noa1<hali
ICounM uC Rnn r, R.ong~T
ICaultStalionM~e Hobig~, Hobigan'
Cox'sBazarMarbT.M~uc Cox's Blll'-IITCox's BIlZaf
[bhhin I'ikglarha Jam; Mosque M;mur. Dhaka
Dev,.." arha Jami Mosque SnVllr Dhakll
Dhabga.. Nurnnaman Mia M Ranglur Rlln ur
Dilku-.haM~ue MOlijhed DhaJul
Doltshwlll' Hanifia M NllflI ',N3Jll
Donaban M2!'Iue Baufat PatllnkMli
Ena)'!! B:IZIll'Jami Mosque KOlll:l.ti Chitta
Feni Jam; M ue Trunk Rood Fen; Feni
Gendaria Barna M I SulrD Dhnb
0000"'11 M "" I Nawflbe Dhaka
, Golan.1:13m;M e M; ur Dhakfl
Go'1:mmetll School Mosque Hobi 'Hob;
Gulba M Moti'beel Dhakll
Gulshan Cenb1ll M ue Gulslwt Dhab
Hariram Sal1anlll HllZi aarbi M05QUc Rlln uT Rzm r
Hnwilldnr Bami Mosque Baufal Paluakhali
Ili~ &0001 Mosque Pl~hha, Ran T
Jam; M!!8lll.'ofBIT JoidevpUT, DimkD
Jnmiatul Falah DumP.i! Chitl.n
1 J=~ 80m! Office M05 lie Jessore Jessore
JhcrutidlJlCadC1Coil M ue Jhenidah Jhenaidah
KabilM~ue Bhola Boola
Kadamtola BIlZIlt M B na BlIT nl
KAI'CO Jami M ue Anowara Chitta On
Kagl?jilOla Jam; M Sutfll uT Dhaka
Kallnil M05!1lle Rantn Dhaka ;
Kalai~ HIllldar M "" Baural Paluakhati
Kalatillpllrtul Jami Mosque Kcnmi 'Dhnb
Kaltab:1ZllrM ue Sulnl r DhnkD
"'-rim Jule Mill M , D<mm Dhili
K.azi fin M ue Baufal Patuakhali

•
---'" .--.
 ,
....., ..•.. • Field Study 3- of ~

51.- Name orlhe Mosque '" - ... - Location

No. (AJnnSrdintheasccndin~
alph:lbctical
"rd.,' . (TII.,.n.,.
andZila)
72 Ktwkrnul r~1amJam; M ue Mi!p'!!TDhaka
73 Kht'jurb:lghMosque Kmml lin",DllakD
74 Khil~n Ra iOMM ue MOlfhecl Dhaka
7S KhTI~n Chowdh PIlrhnMati, MQ8ue MOli"eelDIuI""
16 IKhil on MM";du) Aman Moli"lta:l Dhnk:n.
77 IKhil OnShahi Mo~u. Moti"h«l Dhaka
78 IKol<:1"
PukurParhMas II<: Baufnl,Patllakhali
79 lakurh TolaMos!!\/<: BllJX\lOIl,RllTJ!Unll
SO lalbaggilla M~u. L,nlbag,Dhaka
HI LohnsnrhaB37Jl~Mosgue Loha~rh ~~
82 Lo\'e1ancJam; ~ Koloal; Chilt~
I 83 MalilolaBarlulM ue ~ KOloal;Ohm
84 MaolarlllBhown; HallM~Ul:, hhllngir Nll r Un;\'. S:WafDhaka
85 Mll.,idul~...!!!!!.!!.... M" r DhnkB
86 MIlS"idul ~~,=:e M" r Dhnkn
87 Mil71l r CadetColl~c Mirznpur,Tangail
88 Mancha B37JlrM ue IUkhi Cox's BIlnll"
1\9 M~uc al the MlIZIIr Complexof Ham I ShahJolal(R) Sylkt, S)'lhC't
90 M~uc "fMlldraSll-i-RA1unanill Yunisill Rlrn~nia. Chillagong
91 M~~orSh:;~ ..~!!I:(a Mughaltuli Comilla

• 92
93
94
M~~FllJ1lI ~e
Nal"aniJamiM ue
Na"'llb an"MarkD"Cenlml Mo,;que
RangJl,!!T,Ransp'!!r
GaZr~iJrGIlZiur
NaWll " Dhaka
~ New MarketBairulAmanM(l!;!Il1l: Dhanmondi Dhaka
~ Ni,h81Jute Min M(l!;~ Ton i Gui r
I~ Nonh SlInhjlOhan.l'!!r
JamiMosgue Moli"heelDhabi
~ Nonh Shahjahan.l'!!r Jhttl M(l!;!Iue Moli"heelDhabi
99. NurninpurMo,;que Baur.1 raruakhali
1'00 Off,,;erPnmMosqlll: Bhol. Bhola
~ PalmnCIldetCollege PablUlr.hna
~ P"""linMo ue Nnwnl>£anj" Dhabi
~ PilkhllltaPostOfIiee1>1 ~ l.lllba Dh8ka
~ ~~achha 8= JlllttiM~e Pi hha. Rangr.ur
~ ~!Techni!luclnnituleM ue Tc"S!0n Dhaka
~ Purta KoomabrnliaM ue B~Itll" B!!G!;!M
~ PurtaNllkhaiParha~M ue Te"ga<:ln Dhtlka
g PurtanBII7.3T Jami ~~e Chand r, ChandJlur
~ PWDJamiMosque Ram Dhab
~ R..aj,hnhiCadd ColI~ Mosquc I Rajshnhi
..J.g.. R..alltnp'ur
BillalMiaM~c Ran , R..an!l'ur
~ Rel:tisterOfficeM ue Baufal Patuakllali
~ Ru ganj BazarJlUttiMMQue Nllf1IilNlUllil
~ SatedSharkarBashiM uc ~g!t.~jpur
~ ShadMGhal Mo uc B Ba Itll
116 Sha~hal Mo;;que SUtrllur Dhaka
117 ShahMokl>dum {l!l Mu.at"Mos!lue Ra"shahiR..:shahi
lIS Sh8;lGambujM~ ~I 8a cmnl
119 ShalllrtllJami~~e ~,G:uipur
, 120 ShtllmoshiBUM Jam;M ue Kcran; an" Dhabi
121 IShantipurBu.at"JamiMosque Moli"heelDhaka
122 Sh; ur Bmr M(l!;ue ID!Lbp.!!r>Nm.hinGdi

• • ,
....'-
 .\

". .• :-,,' Fi~fd SlUdy 3- j

"

Sl. . Name oflhe Mosque -

No. (Arrangedin thea=ndin 11 h3bcticalorder)
Location
(Thana ondZila) . "I
'"'" Shiblcr K. o' i ParlulMMSI!e
Shikdar~Ue
Rn.ngpur,RAn8l'!!!
I UUlia Cox's BUN

'"'" Shishu Hos itaJ Jam; M~u.

Thann M uC
lUI-shed M~ue
T'
B
on Dlutb
'!!ll'!M
'"
128 Ukhia all7~ M~u.
Kemniil'!!'j. Dhaka
Ukhi.Cox's
B~

'"'" Umidnagar Madrasa M~U1:

Voran UUlrp:lfllM~uc
West Ra'ab:u.nrM~ue
Hobi " Hobi n"
Sanr Dl1lIn

'" Te- ';tOn DlulkD

3.3.2.1 Ohsenilliions In lhl' pilot sun"c)'

As Bangladesh pos.o;esses almost similar climatic, geographical, technological lind
other aspects in dilTerenl p3rts of it, lbe charectenslie features lire also "ery much
similar for mosques of different areas. Still, some minor variations in fCllturcs IlI'e
identified. In the pilot survey, following types of features nrc observed in different
mosques under different issues.

3.3.2.2 Trp('ll of fcatuns under different IS511C!1

A. Period of construction
I. The CfITlyIslamic OTprc-Mughal or Sul111nateperiod (1204-1$76 AD)
2. The Mughnl period (1$76-1757 AD)
3. The British colonial period (1757-1947 AD)
4. Thc contcmporary period (1947 AD- to datc)

8. Neighbourhood to scn'c
I. Residential (Ncighbourhood, housing socicty etc.)
2. Commcn:ia! (Office, markCt placc, business centre ctc.)
3.ln~litutional (Madrasah, unh'crsity, etc.)
4. Industrial (Factnry, mill etc.)
5. Placc ofreligiou5 significance (Millar, Khanka elc.)

C. Sct-up
I. Urban
2. RUT'll1
3. Suburban

D. Special significance
L National mosquc
2. Zilnfcity ccntrol mosque
3. Centre for dawat (wblig)
4. Historically important
4. Nil

E. SouteC offinMcc for construction

I. Sl.IItc,organi7.l1tion etc.
1. Singlc person (rulcr, rich peTSOnctc.)
3. Musal/ies oflhc community
 • Field Study 3- 6

• ' F, Plan
1. Courtyard type
2. Enclosed type

G. functional1ayer,
I. Single storey
2. Multi-storey (more than single storey)
3. Originally single storey, presently multi-storey
4. Constructed over floor/s 01"secular use (market, warehouse, library etc.)

H. Capacity for sa/at

1. Small (3-200 musallies, usually senes low-density small community)
• 2. Medium (201-2000 rnusallies, usually serves high-density community)
3. Large (2001-above musallies, usually serves high-density community or a city)

I. Special building elements

(Mihrah is not listed here, 3S it is common to all mosques)
l. Dome
2. Minaret
3. Comer turret,
4. Vault
5. Arch
6. Gallery (For ladies or royal dignitaries)
7. Nil

J. Ventilation
J. Natural
2. Artificial (air eondi [lolled)

K. Source of water for wazu

I. Supplied water through pipe and taps
2. On-ground water reservoir
3. Pond
4. Tube-well and pitcher

3.3.3 Selection of case study

A number of 25 mosques are selected for case study. The selection of mosques is
done in a manner so that, as a whole, all the features identified in pilot survey (see the
list of different features in the paragraph 3.3.2.1) arc represented. The selection covers
from the large national mosque to even a small one at its very inception stage of
development.

The case study includes field survey and prolonged physical observation on space use
pattern, prospects and constraints of individual spaces and their linkage pattern,
service facilities, users feedback etc. For the sake of correctness of findings through
prolonged observation, the mosques are chosen from convenient locations. Moreovi::~ ~
it is observed from pilot survey that the mosque features do not essentially vary."..
merely with the variation of locality Or zilas, i.e" a mosque from Rangpur zila bears ~
nO reason to be different from a mosque from feni zila just for being from different
 • Field Study 3- 7

, lle<lgJ1lphicalposition. The \'~rialions found among the mosques of Bangladesh (ll$

descnbed in pamgmph 3.3.3.1) arc: llIthcr bMed on other is!rnc~.So, the representation
of various features in di fTerml mosques is taken liS more significant crileria 10 select
the case mosques than sch:cting from diffel'\'nt ::/lns.

The following tables (fable 3.3.3.1 lIod Table 3.3.3.b) list the mosques and their
signilirnnt fcalurcs. It run be observed that, 110 single mosque possesses nil the
fClltUresand agnin, some fClIfUrcsnre commonly found in mony mosquc,~.

TobIe J.3.3.a ;,\Iosqu~ for elise stud,"

51. - _.
Name orlhe Mosque and Locations Location
No. (ATnIlgrd in occOl'll3n« ••;Ih !«alions) (Thana ond Zjla)
I Bailul Mukarrnrn Mosque Motijhed, Dhaka
2 Dill,:ushn Mosque MOlijhecl, Dhaka
3 North Shnhjnhnnpuf Jhec:1Mosque Motijhcel, Dhaka

,
4 Kokrnil Mosque
SUET Centrnl Mosque
Rnmnn, Dhaka
Rzlmna, Dhoka
6 BBkshib:l7.ar Road Mosque: I Rzlmna, Dhako
7 PWD Jami Mosque: Ramll4, Dhaka
\
8 Nc:v.'Market Saitul Aman Mosque: D1ummondi, Dhaka
9 Lnlb:lg Qilla Mosque Lulb:lg, Dhaka
10 West Rnjllb:l7.arMosque Te:jgaon, Dhaka
II Gulshan Cemrnl Mosque: Gulshan, Dhaka
12 Masjidul Faruque Pal1abi, Dhaka
13 Vornn UtUirp.arnMosque Savnr, Dhaka
-14 Shillana B:l7.anrJami Mosque Gazipur, Gazipur
,15 Bilbo Adam mo~ue Munshiganj, Munshiganj
16 Mosque ofMadrnsa-i-Rahmllllia Yunisia Rangunia, Chittagong
17 8aroghunia Jami Mosque Chtmdrnghona, Rangamati
IE KAFCO Jami Mosque AnnWl1f1l,Chil\.llgong
19 JamilllUl Flllllh, Dumpmn, Chillagong
20 Andar Qilla Jami Mosque Andar QilIa,ChiUagong
21 Feni Jami Mosque Trunk Road, Feni
22 Mosque of Shah Shuja Mughalruli, Comilla
23 Mosque at the Malar of Hodrol Shah Jalnl (R) Sylhc:t town, Sylhet
24 Chhoto Sona Mosque Nllwnbga~,Nawllbgll~
25 Shait Gambuj Mosque Bage:mBt, Bagcrhat
-
I
•
•
 FI~fdStudy]. 8

Table 3..3.3.b Chl:Ckli~l of ~rgnlfknnt f~nturtS In lhc mo~quC'$ for cn~e stud)'

, - CD
51. :A 8
... .
E F G H I 1 K - Lcgends':- --

• , , , , , •'- , ') , ,,.

No. '(For dd.e.ils..,. SectiOll3..3.2.2)
- .----
I
, , , • , , , , ,; , , A. Period of conSlruction

• , , , ,,, , , , ,
I. The tally hlom!c period (1204-1576 AD)
'- 2. The Mugllal period (1576-1757 AD)

• ,,. , , , '- , , '.' , ,,. I.

3 3, The Rrili,b colonloll'(riod (1757.1947 AD)
4, The conlmtpOl1lf)'period (19-47AD- 10dall')
4
5 • ,. , , , , , ,., , ,
) ~ 8. Neighbourhood to serve

• , ,, ,, , , , , ,,;. , ,
J I. Residmlial2. Commerclll 3, IMliwtion:11
4. Ind~l S. Ploce of rcliglDlM.iplirl,,"nce
6
• '., , , , , ') , , C. Sc:l-up

•, ,, ,, , ,, ,, •,. , , , ,
7 1. Urtw> 2. RIU1I1
J. Subllrbon
1.).
8

• , ,,;. , ,
)
D. Special signifi"an~
I, National""'"QUC 2. City calnl mosque

• , , , ,, , , ,
9
3. CmIre fordtnm/4. Hirtorically impmu:nl
) 2) S. Nil
" , , , , , , ') , , I.
II •
,
)

12 •
, , , , , , , , , Mu",l11",
J
F.. Source offinancc for conslruetion
" 1. Sale. organiz:ationct•. 2. Single penon

• , , ,, ,, , , , , ,
II J. of!be rnmmunily
IJ J

• ,•• J ) , , , , ,. F. Plan
I. COIIrtyDrdtype 2. Enokmd type
I'
, ,., , • , , , , ,,;. , •, G. Functionallayc:rs
" • ,, ,,, ,, , ,
J
I. Single 'I""'Y 2. Molti.storey

" • '. , , , , , , ,
J J)
J. OritiR:llly single storey, pme>ltly multi-norey
4. Con'lruct<!d0•.••.fIoorls of se<'\llar_

• •, , , , , , , , ,
17
H. Cnpacity for sa/at
1.).

• ,., , , , , '. , " , , ,,. I.

18 l. S""II (J.300)
2. Modium (201_2000)

• ,., , '. , , •• , , ,,. I

19 J.l.argc (2001-lbo\'e)
J.
20

,
'
J.
- , •, , , , ,,;. , ,••
)
~~' , 1. Special building clcmen15
I. Dome 2. MilW'Cl J. Comer IUn"Cls4.VIUl!

" '.• , , • , , , , , , , 1.).

S. An:b 6. Gallery 7. Nil

22
2J
•
,. , , , ,
,, ,'., , • , , , , ,'). ,
J , ,.
J. VCfltilntion
1. Nlrural 2. Artificial (air eoodlllonod)
J
24
, , , • , , , ,M I.J, J K. Sauro:: ofv.-nter for "uzu

25 • ~. , ,. 1. SlIfII'l;.d W1Ilor2. On-gmund "'''l(T rntr\"Oir

3. Pand 4. Tube. •••-c:1land pilC/l(1
••
•
The mosqucs in field study nrc: \'i~ited physicnlly. Men~urcmenl of spaces. Exterior
lind interior photographs, observation of spaee use pattern IUId frequc:neiC'$ and other
related nelivitic:s lire condueted in each mosque. From direct observation lind

..
 Field Study 3- 9

statements IrOrnmosque staff(mosque committee, imam, muazzin, khadim and so on),

the use profile of main sa/at space and service facility is recorded in a format', which
ulumately helped to deduce the desIgn cntena and standards. Formal mtervlew
somctimes renects exaggeration and fallacies for misunderstanding of objective. To
get the users feed back, informal interviews are taken and recorded. As most of the
mosques arc developed incrementally, usually there is no systematic drawing ready
for presentalion. The drawings are developed from direct measurements and available
drawing documents, as elose as possible to its present phase.

Other observations conducted in thc field study was,

a) Orientation of the mosque to check the eontomity to the exaet qibla direction.
b) Qatar spacing.
c) Measurements of different furnitute and fixtures (e.g_, mimbar, desk for religioUl>
study, wazu seat, shoe-rack etc.)
d) Consumption of water for wazu and other services.
e) Time taken for wazu and other activities etc.
f) Congestion created at the time ingress and egress
g) Over load on service, cspeeially in critical sa/lit lime (say, salm of Juhr for
mosques in offiec area, when the number of musallies participatcs in maximum).
h) Any significant I"eatureimportant for fomulation of design criteria and standards.

Moreover, ergonomic study is conducted on musallies to determine the space

requirements for sa/at and other activities. Models of selectivc heights4 were (in em.):
a) 162.11 (mean)
b) 168_75(+2 Sd)
c) 172.07(+3Sd)

Photographs, measured drawings, figures, charts and other related data is presented in
the Appendices (A.2, A.3 and A.4).

3.4 Study on case mosque

To avoid rcpetition, the description of significant features of indivldual mosque is
kept short a, those are elaborately cited in the appropriate places to formulate thc
criteria and standards in relevant chapters. Photographs and measured drawings are
fumi,bed in the appendices, A.2 and A.3 considerably. Data in Tables and Charts are
included in Appendices A.4.

3.4.1 Baitul1\1ukarram Mosque

This mosque stands at the eastern side ofGenenl! Post Office (GPO), Gulislan, within
the Motijheel thana5. The neighbouring areas are developed basically as office and
market places. By virtue of being the National Mosque or Bangladesh, the catchment
for this mosque goes rar beyond the usual limitation. A good number of devotees
gathcr in this mosque from places far away specially in the rituals like ,~alatof Jumua,
Eid, Lui/atld Qadr etc. ~

The foundation stone was laid by then president of Pakistan Field Marshal Aiyub
Khan on 27'" of January 1960. The mosque was designed by architect A. H. Thariani
and supervised by engineer Mainullslam [l, pp. 230-232]. The mosque complex is of

•
 Field Study 3- 10

eight floors. Ground floor is designed for market. There are seven floors, including
one mezzanine floor, for sa/al. The form of the building has resemblance with that of
the Holy Kaba at Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Space for sa/al for male (covered): 6,643.46 ml

Space for safat for male sahn (open courtyard): 3,708.64 m2
Space for salat for female (covered): 593.21 m'
Total space for sa/at: 10,945.31 m2

Space forw(lzu for male: 597.21593.21 m2

Space for wazu for female: R1_80593.21 m1

3.4.2 Dilkusha Mosque

Thi~ mosques stands at the southern side of Jiban Rima Tower in Dilkusha
Commercial Area, within the Motijhecllhana. The neighbouring areas are developed
basically as government office and blL,ine~s centres.

11is a>sumed that the mosque was first built during the regime of Mughal emperor
Jahangir [3.1, p. 222]. The mosque is renovated and extended in 1986. Total Area of
the mosque is about 557.70 m'.

The mosque is comprised of three domes, thick walls of about 1.52 m. There are small
windows at the lower part of the west wall. To the meet the requirement of the
additional musallies, the mosque is extended eastward, keeping the western part as it
was. Later on, another 1100r is constructed on this extended eastern part. The
surrounding areas are renovated through planned landscape. The mazar of Hadrat
Shah Neyamatullah (R) is placed at the northern side of this mosque. It is said that he
was one of the 360 Muslims saints came to present Bangladesh for the work of dawat.
There are other graves in the southern side of the mo>que. The donation and
subscriptions carry the expenditure of the mo~que.

There is ablution facility of supplied water taps both in north and- south side of the
mosque. Toilet facilities are also provided in the far northern zone.

3.4.3 North Shllhjahllnpur-South Khilgaon Jhed Mos1lue

Thc mosque is constructed on columns over the jheel (canal) between North
Shahjahanpur and South Khilgaon, within the Motijhccl thana. The neighbouring
areas are developed as residential community.

The mosque was first constructed in 1973, with wooden floor on wooden columns.
The sidewalls were of bamboo slices and the roof was of C.I. sheet. The mosque
developed incrementally like any other community mosque and presen!ly, it i> a
permanent two-storied huge building on R.C.c. columns with a total (two-floor) area
of aboul 1358.63 m2 It has a mak/ab, where about two hundred children get the
religious education. The mosque committee operates a library in collaboration with
Islamic Foundation Bangladesh. It runs on thc earning a; rent from the shops and
bachelor accommodations, donation and subscription from the community. It has a
number of twenty-one wazu facility, four lu;nals and two lavatories. The total
capacity is about 1,900 musalties.
 Field Study 3- 11

3.4.4 Kakrall Mosque

This mo,que is located just at the eastern fringe of Ramna Park, within Ramna thana
area. The neighbouring area comprises of a green open :;paee, busy road, government
housing and an office.

It is as,umed that the mosque was first built during the regime of Mughals [1.1, p.
309]. The original mosque was very ,mali. It started to expand from 1952. A part of
the old mosque i, preserved at the eastern end of the pre,ent three-storied mosque.
The floor space of this mosque is about 1860 m'.

One of the fundamental duties of a Muslim" - the work of dawat is performed in thi,
mo,que and it is used as the centre for Banglade,h. Groups of devotees arrive here
from different part of Bangladesh and abroad and again ,pread out for different
destinations for learning and propagation of deen. This mosque is never empty and
remains alive round the clock with different religious activitic" which resembles with
that established by the Prophet (S) in Medina. One striking feature thus evolved that
this mosque has no door at the entrances in its main building, which is really not
required if the Muslim communities use a mosque exhaustively, as it should be. Many
studcnt<;-Iocaland foreign, learn deen in the lIladrasah attached to this mosqlle.

There are two tanks at the entrance to faeilitate wazu and bath and a good number of
urinals and lavatories at the northeastern premise. In addition to that, toilet, wazu and
bathing facihty is provided in the lIladrasah part in the northern part of the building.
There are accommodation, cooking and dining facilities for musafirs.

3.4.5 RVET Central Mosque

The mosque is placed in the canlpus of Bangladesh University of Engineering and
Technology (SUET) in Lalbag thana. University staff quarters and student,' hostels
are within its catchments. The stndcnts usually come to this mosque in sa/at ofjumua
on Friday, as they have prayer spaces for daily five-times salat in their respective
hostels.

The mosque was Ilrst established in 1969. It had undergone difTerent phases of
renovation and extension work. Presently it is a two-storied building. The total floor
area for sa/at ;, about 1251 m2• A land area of about 973 ml includes, other than the
main mosque building, the service facility, sahn, imam's accommodation etc. A hift
khana and general maktah conducts the religious education. Wazu facility (12 in nos.)
is mainly provided from ground level water reservoir through taps at the southeast
corner of the site and in the toilet zone at southwest corner. Urinals and II lavatory arc
also provided.

3.4.6 Bakshibazar Road Mosque

It is placed at northeast comer of the BUFf campus, in Ramna thana. It is accessed
from east from the main road. Musallies come trom adjacent BUET staff quarter, staff
quarter of the University of Dhaka, passers by and many others.
•
The mosque was established in 1920 by one Lalu Mia [3.1, p. 320]. Afterwards,
BUET authority replaced the old one with a permanent one-storied strLlcture.The
 Field Study 3- 12

mosque in its design has followed some classic aspects found in north-Indian
mosques, Service block is separated form the main mosque by a small courtyard in
between. Main mosquc ha~ an area of about 259 m1, service area cover 108 m2 and
courtyard (including two small open spaces in the service area) measures about 203
m2.The mosque is financed and maintained by BUET.

Initially, two service blocks were allocated separately for wazu and toilet 7.But create
provision for imam and mllazzin in southern block, thc north block is ultimately
arranged with both the facilities, Presently, it has 12 wam points, 3 urinals, I lavatory
aml I bath in a relating tight situation.

3.4.7 PWD Jami Mosque

This mosque is located in the offiee premises of PWD and at the far eastern side of
the High Court building. It is \vithin Ramna Ihana, Musallies comes mainly from the
PWD offiec and adjacent areas.

This is an aesthetically pleasing mosque, designed by professional architect.

According to foundation stone, it is cstablished in 1394 (Bengali) and 1408 (Hijri).
No Gregorian year is mentioned. But from calculation it seems to be 1988 AD.
The main prayer hall is surrounded by veranda cxcept in West Side. A series of arches
surrounds the vernnda at its outer skirt. wazu and toilet facilities are placed in a
different block at the southern side of the mosque. In the working days, for the sa/a!
ofjllhr, there is a tremendous prcssure on services as almost every employee of the
office avail, those. So, some extra open to sky wazu facility is arrangcd outside of
service block.

3.4.81"iewMarket Baitul Aman Mosque

It is located within the New Market, under Dhanmondi, Ihana. MusalIies are mainly
form thc shopkeepers of the market and those come for marketing.

The mosque was established in 1971 and it was initially constmctcd with bamboo
fence and CI sheets [3.1, p. 201]. During the year 1985-86, the market was extended
and the mosque was placed in the I" floor of this extended part. The mosque has two
elemcnts, a dome and a minarct. There is a water fountain at he central part of the
circular stmrs. Its floor is finished with naturnl marble tiles. Previously, there was
provision for ladies prnyer in the first floor, separated with linen screen. Reccntly, the
space is shifted to a tinted on the ground floor at the north-eastern side of the mosque.

The seIYices arc placed in the northeast and southeast comer. In tbe northern part,
both toilet and wum facility is providcd and ~outhern pan consists of only wazu
facility. In total there are 52 wazu points, II urinals, 6 lavatories and one bath. For
ladies, there are separate toilet and wam facility in the ground floor, adjaccnt to their
pr••yer space.

3.4.9 Lalbag Qilla Mosque ••.•••.

This historically important mosque is located "ithin the boundary of Lalbag Qilla ••
(fort). The locality is unuer Lalbag thana, The musallies comes mainly from nearby
residcntial area and visitors ofLalbag Qilla.
 Field Study 3- 13

It is assumed that Prince Muhammad Azam (1678-79 AD) had built the mosque [3.2,
p. 54; 3.3, p. 198].11 smnds about 39 m west to the Tomb ofBibi Pari [3.1, p. 362].
The mosque is built on a slightly raised plat form. The mosque, measuring 19.82m x
9.91m, have three nuted domes, of which the middle one is bigger than the other two.
Il has cu>ped arehes at three entrances and four octagnnal comer turrets with kiosks.
By architectural style, this mosque belongs to Shaista Khani architecture [3,2, p. 54]'
Resemblance of features can be traced with other three domed type of mosque
commonly met in Dhaka, for example, the mosque of Haji Khawaja Shahbaz. The
mosque has open to sky sahn, which can accommodate large congregation. Wazu and
toilet facilities, placed in the west side of the mosque are provided from supplied
water and taps.

3.4.10 West Rajabazar Mosque

The mosque is located at West Rajabazar in Tejgaon thana. The musallies arc mostly
from the residential community and ~treet-side shops,

One Ali Ahmed Matbar initiated the mosque in 1974 [3.1, p. 176]. To meet the
requirements of in creasing mu,~allies of this densely populated community, the
mosque has expanded vertically in different phases and reached to it s five storied
structure. A minaret is added recently for its easy identilleation among so many multi-
storied buildings and also to disperse the sound of adhan,

This vertically over-gro",n mosque has two stairs with insufficient width, which
creates congestion especially in large congregations like sa/at ofjumua and sa/at of
Eid. Wazu facility is provided at the south, east and pan of the north side in ground
floor. Toilet facilities are placed at the northwest comer approached from the second
entry at sOllthwest comer.

3.4.1l Gulshan Central Mosque

Located at 1I 1, Gulshan Avenue, under Gulshan thana. The musallies arrives from a
residential area.

This two-storied structure over a three-storied foundation was initiated for

construction in 1976. Some Muslim countries, like Sandi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait etc,
Islamic Solidarity Fund and some Bangladeshi individual donors provided the fund
for this mosque. With huge land area of about 6.61 acres, the mosque complex
includes Eidgah, Islamic research centre, madrasah, library, charitable clinic etc.

Some features like minaret, arches etc, are used in this architect-designed mosque of
contemporary period.

3.4.12 MasjiduI Faruque Hadrat tbDul Khattab (R)

The address of this mo<;qlle is, Journalists Residential Area, Block - F, Section - 11,
Mirpur, thana - Pallabi, Dhaka 1221. Mussallies of this mosque gather mainly from
the housing enclave. Some of them also join from the neigbbouring community as
access is provided for them.

,
 Field Study 3- 14

One pious Muslim from Kuwait (name is not inscribed established the mosque in the
fmmdation stone), The ground l100r of this two-storied building is air-conditioned.
The formal expression is simple but elegant.

The wazu and toilet facilities have not developed to its permanent phase. Presently
there are some wazu points and two urinals to serve the musalli, though most of them
complete their service requirements in thcir respective homes.

3.4.13 Vorari UttarPara Mosque

The mosque is sitlJated in the village-Vorarari Uttarpara, Union-Tetuljhora, Ihana-
Savar, Dhaka, The mosque is in a nlral set-up, surrounded by crops tlelds in two
sides.

Local people initiated to establish the mosque in June 1999, with walls of bamboo
fencing and roof of Cl sheets. In the early month of 2000, they started for permanent
structure, which is at present incomplete to totally remove the old temporary structure.
This mosque is a good example how a mosque usually starts its way from a very
rudimentary level.

The people could not yet arrange any facility for wazu and toilet. They fulfil their
requirement in their homes.

3.4.14 Shalna BlUaar Jami Mosque

The mosque is situated in Shalna, Gazipur. There is a school (Nasiruddin Memorial
High School) and a madrasah close to this mosque. Musallies mainly come from the
neighbouring village, the madrasah and the school (during the working days). More
people join in the congregation on Thursday and Sunday, from the village temporary
bazaar near to the mosque site,

The mosque is a permanent one storied structure, measuring 24.39 ill x 12.20 m of
main prayer space and 24.39 m x 6.10 m of a verand3. There is 3 salm ofl49 m2. The
mosque is surrounded by brick walls and covered by 113troof.

This mosque has arrangement for wazu from a huge pond, measuring about 0.5 acres.
This is unique among all the mosques of the field study, but very common in the rund
mosques. There are concrete steps for wam starting from 1.52 m apart of the eastern
side of the mosque. There are toilet facilities and that is supported by an additional
arrangement of water supply from a hand-driven tube welL

3.4.15 Baba Adam Mosque

The mosque is situated in the Shipai Para, Darga Sari, Rampal in Munshiganj. The
mosque stands in a rural neighbourhood.

The mosque is named after the great Muslim saint Saba Adam (R), who accepted the
glory of martyrdom on 20Lh September 1178 AD and buried in 3 simple mazar (grave)
adjacent to the mosque precinct. About three centuries after his death, a mosque was
constructed (1483 - 1484 AD) which uphold the memory of Saba Adam (R), The
 Field Study 3- 15

initiative to construct this mosquc was taken by Malik Kafur under the patronagc of
Fateh Shah, the last lIyas Shahi ruler. [3.3, pp. 154-155]

This elcgant six domed mosque stands near the grave (Mazar) of Baba Adam (R).
Along with the mosque and the Mazur. the complex comprises of the quarter for the
imam and other staffs, wazu space etc. The mosque has the usual oblong plan
measuring externally about 14,20 m x 10.92 m (46'-7" x 35'_10,,)8. The battlements
and cornice are curved, above which nse the domes, some of which have been rebnilt
in the recent times. The four stone spouts, for drainage of min water from rooftop, arc
a remarkable feature of the architectural style of Bengal, which considers the climatic
aspect of heavy rain of this region.

The interior of the hall is divided into two isles and three bays by stone pillars. Each
of the north and south wall contains two deep niches, while in the west are three
decorated nicbes, the middle of which is the mihrab.

There is arrangement for both hand-driven and moton:r,ed tube well for water supply.
Toilet facilities are also provided close to the mosque area,

3.4.16 Mosque of Madrasah-I-Rahmania_Yunusia

The mosqlle is located in the villagc - Isakhali, I.mion _Parua, thana - Rangunia, zila'-
Chittagong. The mosquc and the madrasah are placed on the nat top of an earthen
hillock and surrounded by other taller one (see photograph in Appendices A. 2). The
mosque "as basically established to support the adjacent madrasah.

The interior Space of the main mosque measures 22.69m x 9.53m (2 I6.24m2) and the
veranda size is 22.69m ~ 4.62m (l04.83m2). There are 7 qatars in the main mosque
and 3 in the veranda. The total capacity of the mosqlle is about 500. The neighbouring
people form villages seldom attend this mosque; rather they prefer to attend their
neighbourhood mosques, which are very good in number in that locality. Thc
madrasah teachers and the srndents (every one resides in the adjacent hostel) attend
every sa/at. So, there is no variation in the number of attendants for any jamaat for
sa/at. (See the table in appendices AA) There is an artificial water tank to supply
water for wazu and bath. Thirty-six people can perform W(lZU at a time. Toilet facility
includes six lavatory and si~ urinals.

3.4.17 Baroghunla Jami Mosque

The mosque is located in the village - Baroghunia, union - Chandraghona, thana _
Borhooi Chhori, Zila - Rangamati. It is placed on the flatten top of an earthen hillock,
about 75m above the M.S.L.9 [3.7, p. 9]. It is in the residential area developed around
thc Karnaphuli Paper Mill (K.P.M.) and Karnaphuli Rayon and Chemicals (K.R.C.).

The mosque was constructed under the patronage Muhtarima Hajiani Hanifa Bai,
mother of Ahmed Daud H. K., Chairman ofDaud Group of Industries. It wa<;initiated
in 1967 and completed in 1971.

The mosque serves mainly the neighbollnng residents of above-mentioned two mills.
This is one of the 48 mosques in the big cOlIUllunity of 70,000 populations. The
mosque has a capacity of about 2,200 musallies in its 27 qatars (13 in main mosque, 4

.'
 Field Study 3-16

in veranda and 10 in sahn). The main mosque size is about 17m x 36.5m (620.5m:!),
where the venmda size is about 17m x 4.7m (79.9m'].

The main mosque supported by columns only along the peripheral walls and thus it
generates a huge obstruction free space, which is desired in a mosque. The unique
roof system follows thc zigzag pattern usually found in industrial buildings. The west
wall has windows, which is an exception in our usual climatic condition. It has
become possible, as there is a hillock at the western side of the mosque, which
provides shading for the afternoon sun.

This hugc mosque is under utilized in daily five-time salals (see Appendices A.4). It
only becomes full during thc salal ofjamua.

The water is supplied from the on-ground water tank through taps for ablution. Toilet
facility (2 lavatoI)' and 3 urinals) is provided in a place detached from the main
mosque.

3.4.18 KAFeO Jami Mosquc

This mosque is situated in thc residential area of Karnaphnli Fertilizer Company Ltd.
(KAFCO), Ihana - Anowara, Zila - Chittagong. Usually access is rcstrictcd for the
outsiders, though for jumua, the restriction is relaxed to some extcill.

The architectural firm Sthapati Shanshad of Dhaka designed the mosque. The project
was initiatcd on the 31st December 1991iand completed on the 30th April 1998. The
mosque gives a veI)' modern look in hamlOny with the veI)' well articulated campus
design, Huge arches, dome, minaret, good quality of finish materials cte. are the
highlighting features of this air-conditioned mosque. Moreover, high standard of
maintenance ha<;placed this mosque among the most posh mosques of Bangladesh.

The main prayer hall is a double height space. The mezzanine iloor is used as ladies
prayer space. qatar spacing (1.35m) IS determined by the 3 consecutive floor tiles of
0.45m each, which generates one incomplete qatar at thc rear most place of main
prayer space and veranda. This obviou,ly reveals the fact that the mosque was not
designed according to the present qatar spacing.

There are ample facilities for wazu and toilet. Moreover, those are exceptionally well
maintaincd.

3.4.19 Jamiatul Falah

Thc mosque is situated in Dumpam, Chiltagong. The ncighhourhood is mostly
ueveloped as commercial area (shops and office)

In Jumua, a huge congregation is formcd by the musallies about (4,000) from the
:,.
If,
whole town. But in daily five times salat a small percentage (2% to R%) or the total
capacity participates, Sarm, Associate, of Dhaka was engaged as consulting firm.

The roundation stone of this mosque was laid in 1978 and started functioning in 1987.
A major volnme of work is yet to be completed. Thc main mosque space ha~ a
magnificent volume of about 38.11m long, 20.58m widc and 8,llm high. There is a "
 Field Study 3- 17

mezzanine floor at lhe rear part of the main mosque. The numbers of qalars arc 1Hin
main hall, 9 in veranda and 12 in me7,zanine floor. The services are yet to attain lheir
permanent shape. Presently a temporary arrangement of 60 wazu points, 10 urinals
and 4 lavatories is done.

3.4.20 Ander Qilla Jami Mosque

The mosque is situated in Ander Qilla, Chitlagoug. It is placed in a mostly
commercial and to some extent residential area. The mosque is the only relic of old
Ander Qilla (the irmer fort). Buzurg Dmed Khan, the eldest son of Shaista Khan, the
conqueror of Chittagong [3.3, p.244] built the mosque. The construction year is
mentioned as 1078 Hijra in an inscription stone in the wall of main mosque.

Originally the mosque was a lypical three-bay Mughal mo~que of the Shaista Khani
style. But, exceptionally, there is only one dome over the central bay and cross vaults
cover the ~ide bays. The mosql1e hal>massive walls of 2.13m thicknesses. The inside
space is measured as 11.51 m x 6,43m. 11has undergone many phases of alteration and
presently attained a huge capacity (about H,OOO)after considerable extensions in two
storie" veranda and sahn. Wazu facilities, a total of 12H points, are provided from
both supplied water through taps and on ground water tank. Presently there arc about
30 urinals and 7 lavatories.

3.4.21 Feni .Iaml Mosque

The mosque stands on the Trunk Road, l'eni town. Markets and offices surround the
mosque.

One Haji Elahi Box Ehuyan of Gobindopur laid the foundation stone in 1876 10. The
mosque was extended for several times. Ground floor is extended 4 times with
verandas. Presently, with a capacity of about 1900 musallies, it is a two-storied
building. Amin ConslJltant of Dhaka is providing consultancy for recent extension and
modification work. For the sake of identification as a mOi>que,some fa~ade treatment,
addition of a minaret and a dome is execlJted. The dome is just placed on the
continuous flat roofand obviously; it cannot be viewed from below.

There is a reasonable arrangement with 85-wazu point, 14 urinals and 4 lavatories.

Water is supplied thrOlJgh tapi>and from on-ground tank,

3,4.22l\1osque of Shah Shuju

The mosqlJe is situated in Mughaltuli, Comilla, It is placed mainly in a residential area
with a little commercial development. Rajamala, the traditional history of the kings of
Tippera state, describes thaI king Govinda Manikya, in memory of his frieud Shah
Shuja, built this mosqlJe on the bank of river Gomali. He also established a locality
near about and named it Shujaganj [3.3, p, 250]. One stone inscription reads the name
of one Imamuddin (perhaps a local supervisor or patron) and the year 1299 Hijra.

The original mosque is an oblong structure meaSlJring 14,46m x 4.88m (inside elear
dimension). It has four octagonal corner turrets, three entrances on the main eastern
[a~ade with four-centred stilted arches. There are three domes, central one bigger than "
others, rest on octagonal ornamented drums and terminated in far finial, Internally, the
 Field Study 3-18

domes are placed on pendentives and a basal course of medons. In the west wall,
there is a semi-eircnlar mihrab in the central bay and niches in the othcr two.

The mosque has undergonc extcnsions in different phascs. Presently, its capacity has
reached up to about 800. Wuzu facility is provided from an on-ground watcr reservoir
through taps (25 in nLlmber).There arc 2 urinals and 2 lavatories.

3.4.23 Mosquc at the l\lazar Compln of Had rat Shah Jalal (R)
The mosque is placed at the Mazar complex of Hadrat Shah Jalal (R), on a hillock in
the northern part of the town. There is large number of inscriptions in the Dargah or
Mazar, which speaks of the construction of mosqne in different periods, but the
existing buildings do not go beyond the 17thcentury [3.3, p. 239].

The three-domed mosque built ofhrick and plaster during the Foujdarship of Bahram
Khan in 1157 l1~ira(1744 AD). The original mosque has four comer towcrs rising
above the pampets, which were battlemented. The domes, which have tall finials, rest
on crenellated drums [3.3, pI. LXXXIV No. 115]. Extensions arc done on south and
eastern side in different phase>. Presently, it is a four-storied building (sec
photographs, Appendice>,A.2).

The mosque has a total capacity of about 6,000 musulfies, which usually filled on
Fridays. Wuzu facility (about 120 point) is provided both from supplied water through
taps and from a huge pond. Therc are about 28 urinals and 8 lavatories to serve the
musallics.

3.4.24 Chhoto Soua Mosque

The 'ehhoto Sona' mosque or the 'Small Golden' mosque is situated in the southern
most suburb of the old city Gallr, presently in the zila of Nawabganj in Bangladesh.
The inscription tabIct hang-up over the central doorway of the mosque states that one
Wali Muhatmnad built thc mosque dLlringthe reign of Sultan Hu~sain Shah (899-925
Hijra! 1493-1519 AD) [3.3, p. 136; 3.4, p. ISO; 3.9, p.250]. It is a remarkable fine
specimen of mosque in the early Islamic period.

The mosque is erected on the southern sidc of a huge tank (See Site Plan in
Appendices A.3). It has an open court and arched gateway. The oblong building
measures 22.30 x 1254 m internally [3.8, p, 32] (~ee Appendices A.3 for floor plan
and other measured drawings).

It has ten-sided turrets at its Ibur comers [3.8, p. 66]. There were other two comer
turrets, octagonal in plan, placed at the comers of the outside walls of the central
mihrab. Only the foundations of thesc turrets are in situ and the remaining parts are
lost [3.8, p. 68]. The fao;adewas clad with richly decorated stones, most of which are
presently either dcstroyed or taken away. The arches in five doorways on eastern
fa~ade show multiple cusps and their spandrels embossed with prominent rosettes.
The north and south fa<;adeshave arched doonvays, three in number for each fao;ade.
The decoration in the archways has similarity to those of east fao;ade. The north
fa<;adehas a variation as a flight of steps leads up to a doot"\vayof the gallery in LIpper
leveL.The battlements and the triple cornice arc gently curved.
 Field Study 3-19

The interior space is divided into three longitudinal bays and five trllnsverse aisles.
The middle aisle, larger than side ones, is roofed over by three Bengali ehauehala
domes and the side ones are covered by twelve hemispherical domes. Stone pillars
support these domes.

There is a gallery at the northwest comer, which is assumed as used by ladies [3.3, p.
139J or royal dignitaries [3.8, pp. 165-11i6].There are five niches in the west wall, of
which, central one is used a mihrab, the place for the Imam to conduct salal.

The whole mosque is nehly decorated with different motifs, like - 'chain and bell',
'Kalasa', floral medallion etc. The application of profuse decoration in the Chhola
Sona mosque has placed it as the best representation of the stonecutter's art of the
Hussain Shahi period. However, it cannot stand comparison with the buildings of the
earlier period. In design as well as in decoration, it is only an imitation [3.3, p. 140]

3.4.25 The Shait Gambuj Mosque

This mosque is situated about 4,8 km southwest to the tomb of Khan Jahan Ali (R) in
Bagerhat dla. The term 'Shait Gambuj' means 'sixty domes' in Bengali, which is a
misnomer as the mosque actually have eighty-one domes; seventy circular domes and
seven ehauehala vaults over the main prayer hall and four circular domes over the
corner turrets. The date of ercction is not known from any inscription or other
documents, but tradition and archItectural style indicates that it was constructed
during the lifetime of Khan Jaban 'Ali (R)" in mid-fitleenth century.

This magnificent and the largest enclosed type mosque in Bangladesh has a oblong
shaped prayer hall measuring 48.95 m by 32,25 m [3.8, p, 105]. The interior space of
the main prayer hall is divided into seven bays and eleven isles. The central isle is
wider and higher than the side isles. The front or eastern fa~ade consists a row of
cleven openings with pointed arches, while each of the side (north and south) facades
have seven. The central opening in each side fa~ade is larger than others and was used
as doorways while other six openings were windows, screened with perforated brick
jali. All evidence of such brick Jali is stilt ill SilU in the northern wall.

The qibla or western wall has ten niches, instead of eleven as expected usually from
the norm of placing one for every isle in the early Islamic mosque architecture in
Bengal. The central one, u>ed as mihrab, is faced with black basalt stone while nine
other niches are embellished with brick tcrraeotla ornamentation. The central mihrab
niche has multi-foil arch while rest of the niches have two centred pointed arches
supported on pilasters. There is a dooT\Vaythrough an off-centred arch, placed in the
western wall of the isle next (towards north) to that of central mihrab, which is the
only example of such featnre in Bengal [3,8, p. 106]. The provision of an entrance in ,
the qibla wall for the Imam, adjacent to the mihrab is a feature found in early Islamic
architeeture12.This feature indicates that the residence of Khan lahan 'Ali (R) was
located to the west or northwest side of the mosque.

The four cOmer turrets, circular in plan and slightly tapered in upward direction, rise
above the roof and are covered with circular domes. The two corner turrets in eastern
side provide a staircase leading to the roof. There are freestanding pillars, sixty in
 Field Study 3- 20

total, of which fifty-five are made of stone and rest of brick'), support the pointed
arches, which again take the load of domes and vaults of the roof.

The C'hauchala masonry vaults of this mo,que are believed to be the earliest example
of its type in Bengal, which represent the rural bamboo-roof. The parallel bamboo
rafiers and crossbars of the hut are also imitated on the inner surface of these vaults.

The outcr surface of the mosque is without plaster and ornamentation. The top part of
thc central arched opening has a triangular pediment, from which the cornice slope,
down towards the comer. The comices on the other sides are also curved.

In general, the appearance of this magnificcnt mosque, with its simplicity and
massiveness, notably resembles the strength and austerity of the grandeur of the
Tughlaq style", which flourished in Delhi.

3.5 Use Pattern of Spaces

From observation and data collection, it is found that irrespective of urban or rural
area, therc is a remarkable variation in space use patlem, which is mostly dependent
on the type of catcrunents thc mosque i, placed in. Mosques in similar type of
catchment, (say, rcsidcntial), irrespective of being in din"erent zi/as (administrative
districts) show almost similar features.

The tables and analytical charts arc furnished in the appendices A.4. These findings
will be referred for formulation of design criteria and standards.

3.6 Users' Feedback and Observations

The users of the mosque can be categorized in three groups. The first group is the
greater part of the musallies who just pcrforrn the salat but do not take part in any
other respon&ibilities regarding maintenance and development of the mosque. Secoud
group is comprised of the imam, muazzin and khadim who arc involved in rituals,
execution of activities and maintenance of the mosque. The third group is the
executive commitlcc of the mosque, who perforrns the rituals and works for the
development and over all maintenance of the mosque. The,e three groups have given
thcir feed back in infonnal interviews. The comments and suggestions can be
summarized as:

a) Wazu and other ,ervice facilities seem to be very insufficient in the pick hour of
largest congregation (e.g., 3.4.7, 3.4.8 etc.).
b) Level ehangc in small magnitude causes the musallies to stumble, (e,g., 3.4.4,
3.4.6 etc,),
c) Qatar spacing is insufficient, especially for larger congregation. As a result the
head of a musalli hits the back or even get into the elothes of the one standing in
front, (e,g., 3.4.6, 3.4.10 etc.).
d) For wrong zoning of ~paees, one has to put on his shoe~ even when the feet is wet
after wazu, (e.g., 3.4,6)
c) One ha~ to cross the prayer space for going to and retuming form the toilet space,
(e.g., 3.4.5).
 •
Field Study 3- 21

f) Access the wazu khana is through the prayer space. So, person without wazu has
10 enler in the prayer space, (e.g., 3.4,8),

Some other issues observed in the field study are briefly jisted bellow:

a) Qatar spacing docs not follow any standard and it vanes to a considerable range.
b) Qibla direction also varies from what it should be.
c) Occupancy and space usc pattern shows unique variations [or different salal and
again for the different neighbourhood type.
d) Size of the entrance and stairs in most of the cases, is not adequate and creates
congestion, especially at the time of egress after large congregation like sa/at of
Jumul/.
c) Servlces, especially waz" facility, are found to be inadequate during the largest
jamaar oflhe day.
t) Water is severely wasted in wazu with running water through taps, despite of strict
prohibition in Islam.

3.8 Conclusion
The field studies show that, basically there are insignificant differences in articulation
of spaces, form and building materials in different mosques of urban and rural areas
of Bangladesh. Though there arc some differences in water sourees for wazu and other
service facilities. Irrespective of urban or rural area, there is a remarkable variation in
space usc pattern, which is mostly dependent on the type of catchments the mo~que is
placed in. Mosques in similar type of catchments (say, residential or commercial),
irrespective of being in different zi/as (administrative districts) show almost similar
features.

On the above-mentioned grounds, the selection of mosque for field study is done on
the basis of varied type of catchments within Dhaka and its fringe areas to cover all
the~e variations of features. Examples are picked up from the broad category of
residential and commercial areas. Commercial areas include the offices, business
centres and market places. Mosques from rural set-up are taken into consideration to
exemplify certain din"erences in features, for example, use of pond as sourcc of water
for serviecs. Those are obvious but Icss significant, so far the design criteria and
standards of the main mosque building are concerned, Some mosqucs of nation a! and
historical importance are also included to identify significant fcarnrcs.

There is a significant variation in spacc use pattern of a mosquc in a residential area

with that of a market or office area. For example, in a mosque of residential area, the
number of musallie.\' is greater in the sa/at of Fajr, Maghrib and lsha than in Zuhr and
Asr, as in those times they rcmain in their work places. The scenario is oppusite for a
mosque in office area. Similar di tTerence is observed in the case of senice utilization
pattern. Mosques of residential areas have little service load as most of the musallie:; •
usually get those facilities from their households. III the mosques of market places the,
the service load is found to bc maximum.

!n the rural set-up, the service facility should be arranged according to the availability
of water. The hi~torieal mosques have some traditional features like dome, arch etc.
The interior space with narrowly spaced eolumn~ is out come of strucrurallimitations,
 Field Siudy 3- 22

which has no other theological or practical reasons. All these features and findings
will he quoted in appropriate place, to formulate the criteria and standards.

References
[3.1] Rashid, M, Abdur, Dhaka Nagarir Mwjid Nirde.,hika (in Bengali), (A Guide to (he
Mosqucs of Dhaka City), tslamic Foundation Bangladesh, Dhaka, May 1987.
[3.2] Hasan. Sycd Mahmudul, Muslim Monuments of Bangladesh, Islamic Foundation
Bangladesh, Dhaka, 1971.
r3.3J Dani, Ahmad Hasan, Muslim Architecture in Bengal, A,iatic Society of Pakistan,
Dhaka,I96I.
[3.4] Ahmed, Dr. Nazimuddin, (Editctor: John Sanday), m<eover Ihe Monuments of
Bangladesh, The University Press Ltd., Dhaka, 1984.
[3.5] Hasan, Sycd Mahmudul, Mosque Architecture oj P~e-Mughal Bengol, University Press
Ltd., Dhaka, 1979,
[3.6] Cochran, W ,G.; Sampling Technique. John Wiley and Sons, 1977.
[3.7] Ali, Sayed M. Iqbal. Grafosmaner Vuchitraholi (Bengali ofthc Maps of Graph osman),
Geodesic Ltd., Dhaka, 1991.
[3,8] Ahmed. Abu Sayed Mostaque; The CholO Sona Mosque in Gaur, An Example of Early
/slamic Archileclure of Bengal; tnstitute of Architectural History, University of
Karbruhe, Germany, 1997,
r3.9) Khan, M. H.; Terracotla Ornamenration in Muslim Arcn,'edure of Bengal; Dhaka,
19~H. '
[3.10] O'Malley, L S. S.; Bengal District Gazelleer,'.- Khulna; Calcutta, 190H.
p.ll] Crcswcll, K A C.; Early Mu"lim ArchileClure. Vol. II; Oxford University Press,
London. UK; 1969.
[3,12] Bro"'ll, Percy, fndian Arcnilecl"re (Mamie Period), D. B. Taraporevala Sons & Co.
PvI. Ltd., 1956.

, Stati,tical Yoar B(](]kofBanglade5h- t997, Bangladesh Bureau of Stati'tio" D~aka, 1998, p. 32.

, Serial numbL.,."are •."i~'Jled In accordance 10 the Table 3.3,3.a. ror nam"" and locations of the
mo"'lUC',",e t~at particular Table.

'Format In Bengali and EngHsh is ,hown in tho Appendices, AA,

, Height, are derived from a research work conducltd on flangladeshi population (see, fig,6.3). The
standard. are considered as stansticai 'mean', '+2 ~tandaTddeviation (Sd)' and '+3 Standard deviation
(Sd)', whieh denotes 'Minimum', 'Good' and 'Excellent' considerably,

, Admini,ITati'e region under one police stmion is termed"" Ihana .

• (a) And who i, ~cttcr in 'l'eech than him who prayelh unto his Lord and docth right, ami saith: w! 1
am of tho", who sorrender (unto Him). (The lloly Quran, 4 1033).
(b) Let there arise out of you a band of people invitiog to all that is good eujoining what" righl and
f"rbidding what i, "TOng;Ihey are the ones to anain felicily. (Thc Holy QUllIn,3: I04),

, DllIwings of prehminary proposal are preserved in tho Dq,artmcnt of Arch,tecture, BUET.

'ThlS practically measured dimension varies with that mcntioned "" 43' x 36' in many other books,
[3.2. p, 73; 33, p,156; 3.4, p, 158;3 5, p. US]'

'The Mcan Sea_levol(:>1.S. L) is the average elevahon oflhe surfaee ofrhe sea. In Banglado,h, tbe
Mean Sea_Iovclat Cox', fl."",r is t.ken as zero,

10Con'litution of t~o m,,"'luc. p.l.

"
 Field Study 3- 23

LlKhan Jah.n Ali (R), the well known M."lim ,aint in Bengal who died in 1459 AD, f10nmhed In the
nlid<!le of the 15" century during Ihe Toib'llof Sultan AI-Diu Mal1mud I (1433-59 AD). [3.9, p. 27]

11 In the early Islamk arcnitecture, a doorv,ay on qibla wall was often kept aa an enlrance In felTthe
Imam and his residence wa, located attached or closed to Ihe qibla wall. For instance, Ihe Dar al {mara
of tile fun Thlnn mosque al Cairo [3.11, pp. 332-59, fig. 245.57> pIs. 96- I 14].

1.1It" not known whether thc,e ma"ive briek plllnrs are original OTreplaced dunng resloralion [3.~, p.
107].

"Tile numerous dome, supported on "IToded aisles recall the Khirkl and Kalaa mosque, [3.12, pis.
XII and XV] nf Delhi, that were erected dnring Ihe reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The ciITular mid
tapering eomcr lurrets are also very prominent in T ughl.q style [3.3, p. 147]'

:
--~--= ..
_~
...
~
..~---,.~/~~---
--
,
Chapter FOUR
.BasicConsiderations
 Basic Consideration.<4 - I

Chapter FOUR: Basic Considerations

4.1 Introduction

Like any other building, some common aspects like function, economy, environment.
culture etc. arc also considered for design of a mosque. As a special religious
building, mm;que has some distinct and special features to be taken care of under
t!Jo,e common aspects. Most of these special features arc dictated by the religious
bindings and shaped by practical reasons.

Literature survey is conducted for the published books, research papers etc. in
different sources like local libraries, Internet sites of international libmries and
bookshops etc. But there i<;no eomprehensive compilation, which includes 'design
eriteria' of a mosque from the viewpoint of theology and practice. The guidclines of
theology relating mosque design are not compiled in one place rather they are
scattered in different books. Two very useflll sources were found in the form of
computer CD-ROMs, which contains the Holy Qur'an, its translation, major
compilation of hadilh andfiqh.

In this chapter, some design criteria of a mosque will be forrnulated. Some common
aspects, which arc similar to any other secular public building, will be discussed in a
bricfmanner and aspecl~special (0 mosque will be discussed thorougWy.

4.2 Concept
Every building evolves from a concept. Thi, concept of a particular building typc
develops from certain aspects like functional requirements, cOl15truetionmethod,
aesthetic achievement, economic condition. socio-cultural influence, environment etc.
Thus it varies from building to building.

Mosque is basically a public place for religious use, As Islam manifests the unity of
the whole ummah, the major ritual performed in the mosque is taken as a platform for
integrity and brotherhood. Jama'at or congregation is emphatically encouraged in
many hadiths and is proclaimed as an important sunnah of the Prophet (S), which is
expected to be followed by evcry Muslim. Especially, the salatul jumu'a or Friday
prayer, t\VOsalatul Eilis or the pmyer of two great Muslim festivals cannot be
perlorrned individually.

To facilitate the congregations in any environment, a sheltered space is a prime ;..

requirement. This ,pace bears some characteristic features, which collectively i. \.'
develops the concept for a mosque. Some ofthc major constituents of this concept can
be identified as,

Q Platforrn of unity, brother hood and interaction

 Basi,. Considemtions 4-2

Q Unidirectional orientation for the whole world

Q Simplicity and clarity in expression
CI Environment of divine, sacred and metaphysical qualitics
Q Emblem orTslamic art, culture 3Ild heritage
Q Centre for preaching and establishment of the doctrine
Q School for religious education and practice
CI Nucleus of inspiration and glJidimee for all Islamic activities

Austerity and Simplicity

In Islam there are specific guidclines for spending wealth. Il is absolutely forbidden to
squander money in vanity or to show off ones wealth. Some relevant verses from the
Holy Qur'an, which dictates the idea, are as follows:

o ye who believe! Squander not your property among yourselve. in vanities;

but let there be amongst you traffic and trade by mutual good will. [The Holy
Qur'an, 4,29].

Allah loveth not .... those who spend ofthcir substance in order to be seen of
men.. ,... [The Holy Qur'an, 4:3R).

Exult not, for Allah loveth not those who exult (in riches). But seek with (the
we"lth) which Allah bestowed on thee, the Horne Hereafter. rThe Holy
Qur'an,28:76-77]

One example of squandering money or showing off wealth considcred by the Prophet
(S) is to spend on constructing extravagant buildings. The simple and modest way ofa
Muslinl'S life should be expre<;sed in all aspects of life including adherence to basic
necessities in respect of provision for accommodation including that for
congregational salat. Suffice is to quotc the following hadith.~ to clear the idea:

Every bnilding is a misfortllIle for its owner, except what cannot, ('except
what cannot' meaning except that whkh is essential), [4.29, Sunan of Abu-
Dawood,5218].

AlI,'pending is in Allah's cause except thaI on building, for there is no good

in it. [4.29, Mi,hkal al-Ma""bih, 51R3].

The Honr (of doom) will not be established till ... the people compete with
one another IIIeonsrruding high bui!dings... [4.30, pp. 1022-1023]

4.3 Site Planning

Like any other building types, some design criteria regarding siting and layout are to
be taken care or lor designing a mosque. Those will be elaborated below in a
sequential manner.

4.3.1 Catchments
Adhan. the call for salat, is 3Il obligatory sunnah and a prerequisite for performing
sa/at injama'al [4.25, p. 95]. On this basis, the extent of area where frum one musalli
can hear the adahn, delivered in bare voice, may be considered as the catchments for
a mosque.
 Basic Considerations 4 _3

There is another determinant derived from a practical point of view, There is a time
gap bctwcen the adhan and ikamat for a salat. Depending on the waqt or time limit
tor individual praycr'. Usually it is set from 15 to 30 minutes for different ,~a/ats with
an exception for the salat of Mar;hrib, which is uwally about 5 minlltes or even less
than that in most of the mosqucs in our countr/. Any musalli, by hearing the adhan
and performing thc wazu, should be able to participate in the jamaar of the sa/at by
walking in a usual speed, This idea sets a reasonable parameter for determining the
extent of catchments. Onc example may clarifY the postulation.

Example: Determination orCatchments

When, Tg = Time gap between adhan and ikamal
T. = Time taken for adhan
Tp = Time required for preparation (toilet, Wazu etc.)
Tw = Time to reach the mosque by casual walking (in hour)
Tg=T.+Tp+T",
Or, Tw = Tg - (T, + Tp) ------ {l}
Again when,
S" = Average casual walking speed of a person per (in kmlhour)
D, = Distance of remotest point in catelunents from the mosque (in \un)
Dc = S", x Tw (in km) ------ {2}

Say, a mosque has a lIaual 15 minutes of time gap between adhan and ikamat (Tg).
Usually the average time taken for adhan (TaJ is 2 minutes and time required for
preparation (toilet, wazu etc.) (Tp) is 6 minutes. To participate in thejamat for salat
the person is left with the time to reach the mosque by casual walking,

So, T I'= 15 - (2 + 5) = 8 minutes = 0, 133 hour ------ (3}

The average casual walking speed of a person (Sw) is measured 3.75 kilometer, per
hour4. So, D" = 3.75 x 0.133 = 0.49875 km------ (from {2} and (3))
= 0.5 km (approximately) -------- {4}

From the example, we can deduce that the catchments should not be beyond 0.5 km in
radius from a mosque for 1I,ual case. For any unusual eirellmstanees, if the
catchments area has to be taken beyond this limit, the time gap between Adhan and
ikamat (Tg) should be more than 15 minutes.

Building another mosque with in the catchments ofa mosque is allowed by shariah in
ca,e of an acute necessity, for example, to accommodate musalHes in a densely
populated area. But that should not be based on social rivalry or competition and the
mosques sholild not be so closely placed that sound of recitation in sa/at or religious
diseu;sion reaches to other mosque and creates disturbance [4.27, p, 116].

Nowadays, voice amplification device or loudspeaker i, very common for delivery of

adhan. Which can cover a very vast area. But that is not taken as catchment in general
terms, as one from very remote point will fail to participate in thejama'al by walking.

4.3.2 Placement in the CommunitJ

As the rno;que is basically a public spaee for a community to facilitate everyone
equally, it should be placed in the central area approximately equidistant from the
 Basic Considerations 4 _ 4

househDlds. MDreDver, Dne should be able to' reach the mDsque in time to participate
in the salal. This aspect is elaborated in the preceding paragraph.

4.3.3 Aceessiblilly
A mosque is regarded as the Baitulllah or the 'House of Allah'. To access it, none is
authDrized to forbid any Muslim who i, mentally sound and has observed the taharal
or pl-uiliealiDn as a religiDus rite. FDr any cDmmunity Dr area having restriction fDr
public access, the mDsque ShDUldbe placed in such a manner, sO'that anyone wish to
participate in salat can access without any legal obstacle. As fDr an example, there is
no accessibility Df musallie,~ frDm Dutside in the Bangladesh Secretariat MDsque. The
situation CDuidbe avoided if it was considered seriously al the time Df planning and
design.

4.3.4 Setback
For a livable indDor environment, the consideration Df setback Df a mDsque is similar
to that of any other secular public building. As a sacred public space fDr dcvDtional
rituals, there should be a reasonable setback sO'that the nDise and unwanted view from
the neighbDring secular activities dDeS nDt hamper the sanctity of the space and the
cDncentratiDn Df the ln1/sallies. In SDme cDngested neighbourhood Df urban set-up,
there rcmains very liltle setback to' materialize thDse aspects Df privacy, In that case,
some architectural treatment in terms Df fa<,:adetreatment and placement of Dpenings
beeDmes very important in the design Df a mDsque.

4.3.5 Expandability
As the populatiDn of the cDmmunity increase" the demand fDr expansiDn Df a mDsque
fDr an additiDnal capacity bc<:O'mc,a requirement. Especially in the urban areas, the
pDpulatiO'nis ever increasing due to' migndiDn from rural areas and pDpulatiDn growth
within itsclf. On thc contrary, the land for new building i, dccrea,ing rapidly. In most
of the cases, vertical expansiDn becDmes evident. The architect shDuld propDSC
provisions for pDssible expansion of a mDsque with a projectiDn Dfpopulation growth
of a community at least fDr the expected life of the built form. It is very important to
remember that this expansiDn docs nDt mean only for the main prayer space, rather it
includes the suppon services like wazu facility, toilet, ingress, egrcss, circulation etc.
In most of the mDsques or urban setup, whieh has undergone a vertical expansiDn, i.e.
the floDrs are added just one after anDther, arc facing severe problem Dn thDse scrviec,
and facilities.

4.4 Qibla: The Orientation for prayer

The Holy Kaba at Mecca is considered as qibla5 or kiblah. Facing towards this qibla
is far) Dr obligatory for salat. Thus, DrientatiDn becomes a very significant
characteristic feature of a mosque. There is no other building type that fDlIows such a
conspicuous feature (Fig. 1.2, 1.3 and 4.1). Conceptually, orientation towards the
HDly Kaba docs not mean to' worship it. It is just a decision 01. Almighty Allall to
resolve any confusion or ambiguity fDr the Mu,lims all over the wDrid and to tie thcm
in a strong bond Dfunity and brother hDOd.

Despite Df global diversities in climate, building material, technology, culture and

Dther aspects, mosques follow the same nDrm fDr its orientation. The issues like site
configuration, acce,s to' the site etc, calUlO'tessentially make any difference fDr it. In a
 Bas;c Considerations 4 _5

mosque complex, thc main prayer space should be at least oriented towards Kaba,
even if the othcr related built forms arc compelled to be oriented other wise due to any
constraints,

Traditionally, thc qih!a or the direction towards Kaba is determincd by approximate

methods by compass and flat physical maps. For Bangladcsb, this qibla is plainly
takcn as the cardinal direction of West. Muslim astronomcrs developed some methods
to determine the qibla from the position ofthc sun. But those methods wcre not much
publicized and practlced by thcir successors. Nowadays, through meticulous
observation through satellitc survey, Geographical Positioning System (GPS) and
calculation by thc mcthod,; of spherical trigonomctry has enabled us to dctermine the
qibla morc accurately. The necessity of dctcnnining the qibla being so significant, the
following paragraphs is solcly dcdicated for describing thc background and methods
of determining the correct qibla.

S. Kamal Abdali", in his papcr' has vividly described the background and methods for
determining the correct qih!a from any place of thc world. The following paragraphs
are mainly based on hi, Paper and thc refcrences provided by him. Thc discussion is
confined to the scientific aspects of the subject, and religious rulings are analyzed
only for their underlying scienliflc assumptions.

4.4.1 Dcfinition of Qibla Diretion

The qib!a is the direction to the Ka'ba, but what precisely is that direction. Tv,'o of the
possibilities are the grcat circleS and the rhumb line9 dircetions from the given place to
Mecca. Thc fact is that, for good reasons, Muslim astronomers have been using the
grcat circle direction for detennining the qihla for the last twelve centuries. From the
general de,eription of these direction.'; and from the commonly understood meaning of
"facing" the Ka'ba (or thc Sacred Mosque), it seems natural to adopt the great circle
direction for the qibla. For someone who can see the Ka'ba, the direction sought is, of
course, the line of sight to the Ka'ba. For someone who is farther away but within the
visibility range of Mecca's landmarks or hills, the qihla i, the line of sight to these.
The definition of qibla is the common sense extension of the idea of line of sight to
the Ka'ba, namely, the line of sight to a vertical line passing through the Ka'ba. This
is the direction, for example, in which an imaginary tower built over the Ka'ba would
appear. It seems indisputable that for someone who could sec a tower built over the
Ka'ba, the qibla would be the line of sight to the tower. A classical definition in this
spirit is given by Ibn al-Haitham as follows (translated from the Ambic text quoted in
[4.15, p. 11]:

• Tlle q,bla is the direclion such that when a human ob"erver face, it, it is as if
he is looking at the diameter afthe earth passing through the Ka'ba.

From the properties of great cireles we know that this line of sight is precisely in the
great cirele direction to the Ka'ba. So Ibn al-Haitham continues;

And the my coming ont of his eye 10 that direction is in the plane of the great
circle passing in the direclion of his zenith and the point corre'ponding to
[the zenith of] Mecca.
 Ba,<icConsiderations 4 - 6

Hcre Ibn al-Haitham mentions the great cirele on the celestial sphere passing through
the zeniths of the location and Mecca, instead of the terrestrial great cirele through the
two plaecs. MllSlima,tronomers often tran~fonned the qibla dctennination problem
into ~ome familiar problem of astronomy by projecting the point~ on the earth to those
on the celestial sphere. Ibn al-Haitham's simple and precise definition is described in
several alternathe ways in the jurisprudential literature (see, e.g., [4.5J for this
discussion). For example, one i~ ,upposed to be facing thc qibla when a sl.r<lightline
from one's chest or forehead reaches ''the air above the Ka'ba." (Here, the chest or thc
forehead is considered an arc, and the linc is meant to be a radial line passing through
the middle point of the are.) The literature uses a varicty of gcometrical configurations
to discuss the concept of qibla orientation and the allowable approximations, ~ince
exact orientation is not required aecordmg to most jurisprudcl1t~. Jllrisprudential
considerations arc beyond our scope. The purpose of mentioning them is that they all
contain a common theme that the qibla is along the line of sight to a vertical point
abovc the Ka'ba. This can only be the great circle direction, not the rhumb linc that is
not the line of sight. The rhumb linc', property that it makes a COl15tant angle with the
meridial15 i, irrelevant to the qibla. Turning towards the Ka'ba is tantamount to
making an attempt to see it, not to navigate toward~ it with an artificially constrained
movement. Moreover, as we have seen, the rhllmb line direction is not unique,

The direction of the straight line in space betwcen two points on the earth, that is, the
direction of the straight tunnel bctwcen the two points, is also the great circle
direction between the two point~. The line of sight idea cannot be u~ed everywhere on
earth, but the idea of the tunnel can. This is because evcn an infinitely high tower built
in Mecea wOllldbe visible only from one half of the earth. To see this, first consider
the problem of detemlining the direction of the North Pole from any given location on
the earth. If a tower built on thc North Pole can be seen from a location, then the line
of sight is thc north direction. We can think of the star Polaris as bemg at the top of a
vcry high imaginary tower at the North Polc.lO So the direction in which Polari~ is
seen is the (great circle) direction to the North Pole. But due to thc cartb's curvature,
Polaris appears lower and lower in the sky as we move away from the north pole,
until it appears on the horizontal level on the equator, and then disappcars altogether
in the southern hemisphere.

Tnthe same way, a towcr built in Mecca, no matter how high, will bc vi~ible from
only half of the earth, bccause in the other half the tower will be hiddcn by the earth's
ctin'ature, What correspond, to the equator in this case is the great circle that lies
midway between Mecca and its antipode. This circle, which joins all the points that
are at 90° distanee from Mecca, divides the carth into two hemispheres such that even
an infinitely high tower in Mecca can bc ,een only from the hemisphere, which
contains Mecca. Of course, if the tower is imagined to be infinite in both dircetions
(Ibn al-Haitham's "diameter" through Mecca), then it can be seen from anywhere on
the carth. Although still in the direction of the line of sight to this tower, the qibla will
be in the oppo,ite sense, if the place of observation and Mecca are in different
hemispheres.

There is no difficulty in defining the qibla by the great circlc direction. In the
hcmisphere or Mecca, this is also the line of sight to some point vertically above
Mecca. But in both hemispheres, the great circle direction is the most direct path to
Mecca, being the direction of the straight tunncl to Mecca.
 Basic Considerati""" 4 _1

4.4.2 Background for Determination of Qibfa

The interest in qihla direction and endovourance to determine it is not something new.
Thc problem has received serious attention from somc of the most famous Muslim
scientists, including al-Khwarizmi (780-850 AD), al-Battani (858-929 AD), Abu al-
Wafa al-Buzjani (940-997 AD), Ibn al-Haitham (965-1040 AD), al-Bimni (973-1048
AD), and al-Tusi (1201-1274 AD). This is a veritable who's who of medieval
sciencell. Significant original contributions to the qibla determination were also
made, among many oth=, by Habash al-Hasib (850 AD), al-Nayrizi (897 AD), Ibn
YUIlUS(985 AD), al-Khalili (1365 AD), and Ibn al-Shatir (1306-1375 AD). Though
perhaps less well recognizcd than the persons in the first list, several of these people
have done outstanding work in astronomy and mathcmatics.!'

Some of the most important carly work on determining thc qibla is the following: AI-
Khwarizmi and AI-Battani gave approximate mcthods. Due to the simplicity of its
geometric construction, AI-Battani's mcthod remained in wide usc even after more
accurate methods became available.13 Exact methods based on graphical constructions
were given by Habash al-Hasib and Ibn al-Haitham, and those based on such
construction, and spherical trigonometric computations were given by Ibn Yunus, al-
NaytiYi, and al-Bimni. Ibn Yunus and al-Khalili compiled tables containing the qibla
angle as a function of longitude difference from Mecca and latitude. In addition to
these, numerous researchers, many of them unidentified, devised practical methods
involving astronomical instruments such as a,trolabes and various types of quadrants.
The gibla could be determined by solar observations directly at certain times, and
derived from observations using spherical trigonometric calculations at other times.
The versatile astrolabe served well both for performing astronomical observations and
for practically solving spherical triangles without trigonomctric tables or the labor of
arithmetic.

The history of scientific qibla determination has been the subject of extensive
rescarch, most notably by Schoy, Kennedy, and King [4.16, sections IX and XIV] for
papers on the subject. Berggren (e.g., [4.6]) bas mathematically analyzed several
methods. An Arabic reference mcntioning some early work is [4.15]' The ignorance
and neglect of centuries of outstanding Muslim scientific work on thc qihla problem
are truly distressing. It therefore seems appropriate herc to include a Hither long
quotation from King [4.16, pp.l: 253-258], summarizing thc history of the subject:

Muslim ",lronomer< from thc eighth century AD onwards concerned

themselves with (he determination of (he qibla as a problem of mathematical
geography. This activity mvolves the mea.urement of gcographical
coordinates and (he computation of the direction of One locality from another
by procedures of geomclry or trigonometry. The qil>la a( any locality was
defined as the direction /0 Mecca along the great drcle "n the terrestrial
sphere. [Italic. hy S. K. AbdaJi]

... Already in the early ninth century observations were conducted in order
to measure the coordinate, of Mecca and Baghdad as accurately", possible,
with the express intention of computing the qibla at Baghdad. Indeed, thc
necd to del"rmine the qlNa in different locations impired much of the
activity of (he Muslim g"ographers. The mo.t important Muslim contribution
to mathematical geography was a treatise by the eleventh_century scientist
•
Al-Binmi. His purpose wa, (0 determine for his patron (he qibia at Ghazna
 Basic Consideraliom' 4 _8

(in what is now AfghanisllIn), a goal that he achieved most admirably. Once
the geographiealllit1:llare available, a mathematical procedure is necessary to
determine the qibla. The earliest Muslim astronomers who considered thls
problem developed a scrie, of approximate solutions, all adequate for most
practical purpo""s, but in the early ninth century, if not before, an accurate
solution by solid trigonometry was formulated..

O,'er the centuries, numerous Muslim .'eientIStsdiscussed the qibla problem,

presenting solution.' by spherical trigonometry, or reducing the three-
dimensional situation to two dimensions and solving by geometry Or plane
lrigonometry. They also formulated solutions using calculating devices. But
OnCof lhe fmest medieval malhcmatical solutions to the q,bla problem was
reached in fourteenth-century Damascus: a table by al-Khalili displays the
qibla for eaeb degree of latitude from 10° to 56" and each degree of longitude
from 10 to 60° east or west of Mecca, witb entries correctly computed
according to lhc accurate formula.

Wbile the classical scientific works on the qibla problem may be difficult to access,
there are dozens of modem books about it-wri((en independently in difTerent
countries and ditferent languages. Most of those use the great circle def"inition. There
arc some books containing similar literature, [4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.13, 4.12, 4.14 and 4. I 8].
Religious scholars have written some of thcsc books, and they havc cndorsed some.
The author of the Urdu book [4,14] is himself a religious scholar and a mufti. The
Urdu book [4.14J includes a foreword and several cndorsement letters by well-known
religious scholars of Pakistan. The endorscrs include Muhammad Shaf i' and Yusuf
8aIUmri, hoth of whom were very distinguished muftis and were Principals of well-
known religious colleges in Karachi. The Farsi book [4.2], which tabulates thc glhla
angle for most of thc well-known cities in the world, contains a foreword by Shaikh
Hussain Khura~ani, with the title Hujjal ai-Islam reserved in Iran for Shiite religious
scholars of high standing.

Bannuri \vrote a most comprehensive book [4.5) about the jurisprudential aspects of
the problem. This book also includes a discussion of the scientific aspects, and ha~ a
section that gives the great circle definition for the qihla and describes cight method,
based variously on gcometric construction, solar observation, and use of astronomical
instruments. At agc 23 (when he wrote the book, ~ee p. 166), the author seems
traditional and indifferent toward astronomical methods. Still, according to him, the
use of geometric and astronomical methods for determining the qibla is permissible,
though not reqUired. Thirty years later, he appears to have become more sympathetic
toward these methods as implied by his endorsemcnt article in [4.14].

While many theologians have ignorcd, discouraged, or oppo~ed scientific

investigation of the qibla prob-lcm, there are several eminent exceptions. In thc
classic work, the Tafsir by al-Ruzi (1149-1204 AD), the author discusses the qlbla
problem in great detail [4.20, vol. 4, pp. 123-138]. When des"Tibing "exact" methods
[4.20, vol. 4, pp. 131-132] for determining the qibla, he gives its great circle
definition, and describe~ how to find it with the aid of an astrolabe. This method is a
way of solving spherical triangles on the a~trolube to get the time ofthc day when the
~un is in the same direction as the qlbla, (also quoted in 4.5). The result of using the 1
method narrated by al.Ra1i is equivalent to using the trigonometric formula.
 Basic Considerations 4 - 9

4.4.3 Methods of Qibla Determinalion

A pa,sage from al-Razi's Tafsir al-Kabir [4.20, vol. 4, p. 131] beautifully motivates
why in determining the qibla one sometimes needs to calculate, an ae( much
disparaged by ~ome theologians:

The qibla direction is the intersection point bchwCl1the circle of horizon and
the great circie passing in the direction of our zenith and Mecca'. zenith. The
qibia angle i, the arc Onthe circie of horizon between the qibla direction and
the meridian of our city; and [the anple] bmveen the qibla direction and the
equinoctiai sunset point [i.e., westj' i. the complement of the qibla angle.
They say: And in finding the qibla direction, one needs to know the longitude
and latitude of Mecca, If the longltude of the city equals the longitude of
Mecca, and it, latitude differs from the latitude of Mecca, then lts qibla
direction is along the meridian. It i" to the ,outh if the city i. to the north [of
Mecca], and to the north lf the city is to the south, If the latitude of the city
equal, the latitude of Mecoa, and its longitude dillers from the longitude of
Meoca, then it may be oonjeotured that it, [i.e., the city's] qihla direction is
the cast-west line; however, this is a wrong conjecture." And (in fad) it is
also possible for some cities, whose longitudes and latitudes differ from
Mecca's longitude and iatitude, that their qibla direction be the equinoctial
sunrise or sunset point [i.e., cast or west]. If this is the situation, then there is
no choioe but to derive (i.e., caloulate) the qibla angle.

As al-Rui menlions, knowing just one's relative Easl!We,t and North/South position
with respoxt 10 Mecca is nol enough 10 correctly infer the qlbla. So in this section, we
resort 10 some mathcmatics to describc how to compute thc qibla.

N 4.4.3.1 Basic Spherical

Trigonometric Formula
The problem of qibla determination
has a simple formnlation in spherical
trigonometry. In FiglJre 1, A is a given
q location, K i~ the Ka'ba, and N is the
A North Pole. The grcat circle ares AN
(0 ,A.) and KN are along the meridians
through A and K, respectively, and
both point to the north. Thc qihla is
along the great circle arc AK. The
spherical angle q = NAK is the angle
Figure4,2, Sphericaltrianglefordeterminingthe qihla at A from the north direction AN to
the direction AK towards (he Ka'ba,
and so q is the qlbla bearing to be eomputcd. Let tfiand A be lhe latitude and longitude
of A, and rPK and Ax he the latitude and longitude of K (the Ka'ba). If all angles and
arc lengths arc measnrcd in degree" then, by comparing with Figure 4.2, it is seen
that the arcs AN and KN are of measure 90-,6and 90-.;!.K,respectively. Also, the angle
AI"/{ hetween (he meridians ofK and A equals the difference betwccn thc longitudes
of A and K, that is, AK -A, no matter what the primc mcridian is. Here we are given
two sides and the included angle of a spherical triangle, and it is required to detcnnine',
one othcr angle. One orlhe simplest solutions is given by thc fonnula
q = tan _1 sin
-- (AA~ A) _
...... , (1)
cos .p tan if'K sm if' co'>lAK- A)
 Basic Con.•ideralions 4 - 10

Mathem3tk31 handbooks and textbooks on spherical trigonometry and spherie31

astronomy often give a number of alternative formulas or sequence of formulas
equivalent to the above equation. Several of these formulas arc eol1eeted in Bagvi
[4.3, 4.4], including the "half-angle", Napierian, and "haversille" formulas. These
fOIDlUlaswere very u,eful when computations were done by hand using trigonometric
and logarithmic tables, and side results were often needed to crosscheck the
computation. Nowadays there is no advantage in any of these formulas over Equation
(1 ). 11;

In Equation (I), the sign of the input quantities are assumed as follows: latitudes are
positive if north, negative if south; longitudes are positive if cast, negative if west.17
The quadrant of q is assumed to be so selected that sin q and cos q has the same sign
as the numerator and denominator of Equ3tion (I). With these conventions, q will be
positive for bearing; east of north, negative for bearings west ofnorth.18

Example: To find the qibfa for Dhaka, Bangladesh

According to an official survey, the geographical co-ordinates of the Ka'ba arc: ,pK ~
21° 25' 24" N = +21.423333° and AK= 39° 49' 24" E = +39.823333°. For Gulshan,
Dhaka, Bangladesh, the coordinates are: 1>= 23° 47' 52.02714" N = +23.79778532°
and A = 900 24' 56.34024" E = +90.41565007".19

Substituting these values in (I), we obtain q = _ 82.41824484° ~ 82°25'5.681424" W

ofN = 7°34'54.3185796" N ofW.

Similarly, qibla direction for any place can be derived applying the formula (I). Table
6.1 in Chapter Six shows the qibla direelions from different Lilas of Bangladesh. In
the Fig. 6.1, qibla direction is given for every 30' (0.5") of interval for the extent of
geographical position, 01. Bangladesh, from latitude 20034'N 10 26°38'N and from
longitude 88"01' to 92°4l'E [4.26]. If co-ordinates (latitude and longitude) of any
place in Bangladesh are known, the qibla direction can be derived from this figure.

4.4.3.2 Direct Solar Observation

When the sun happens to be exactly vertically above Mecca, it can be thought to be at
the top of a very high imaginary tower built in Mecca. Wherever on the earth the sun
is visible at that moment, the direction in which the sun appears is the exact direction
of the qibla. So a favorite method used by classical Muslim scientists for dclermining
the qibla was to observe the sun at that moment. Here is a description [4.24, Vol. I, p.
306] of this method by AI-Tusi (1201-1274 AD):

The sun lIansit.';the zenith of Mecca when It ISin degree 8 ofGernini and in
[degree] 23 of Cancer at noontime there. The difference between its nOOnand
the noon of other localities tS rneasmoo by the difference bel\veen the two
longitudes. Let this [laller] difference he taken and let an hour be a;surned for
each 15 degrees and 4 minutes for each degree. The re.,ulting total is the
interval in hours from noon [for that locality]. Let an observation be made on
that day at that time. before noon if Mecca is to the cast or after it is tu the
west; the direction of the shadow at that time is the qibla bearing.

•
 Basic ConsMerat;ons 4 _ II

This terse description requires some explanation. The sun happens to pass exactly
above Mecca at noontimc twice a year - at 12:18 (local Daylight Saving Time) on
May 28 and at 12:27 (local Daylight Saving Time) on July 16.:w Al-Tusi specifies
these two days by the ;un's position on the ecliptic. He describes how to ealeulate the
obscrvation time at any location Ji"omthe longihldc difference between Mecca and the
place of observation. or course, nmvlldays the time difference of llny plllce from that
of Mceell is easily availllble.ll So, one can determine thc qibla just by observing the
shadow at that time of those two specific days, without having to know the latilude or
longitudc of Mecea or of one's own location, and without having to do any
computation.

Although elegant, this method has some limitations, as the precise detcrmination of
thc qihla is possible only on two days in the entire year, and for a very brief moment
on each day.2l Moreover, this method works only in a half of the world. The great
circle lying midway between Mecca and its antipode divides the carth into two
hemispheres. If, at the time when the sun is exactly above Mecca, one were to make
an observation on the locations on the dividing cirele it sclf, the sun would appear on
the horizontal level. On the other side of this circle, the sun would not be seen at all at
that time .. Fortunately, the observation is possible from any place of BangladeshD,
though thcre is a possibility ofhindranec created by the overcllstted sky, as eventually
the days fall in the high monsoon.

A method similar to the above Cllll be used at nighttime by observing a star at the
momcnt of its zenith transit over Mecca. But this requires some expertise of
astronomy, and is again not practical for most of the world.

4.4.3.3 Shadow Method

Aller the qibla bellring has been computed, one still nced~ to determine the (truc)
north direction, and then find the qibla by measuring the computed angle from north.
Both these operations are subject to measurement errors. A mcthod that bypasses
thcse operations altogether is to observe the shadow of a vcrtical object at a time
when thc shadow makes an easily measurable angle such as O~, 90°, 1800, or 2700
with the direction of the qibla. Thc angles 00 lllld 1800 imply that the qibla is exactly
in the &ame direction or exactly opposite to the shadow, so at these times there is no
angle to measure and the qihla can be found very accurately. The other two anglcs
imply that the qibla is perp<mdicular to the shadow, so again the qibla can be found
quite accurately. Compnting such times is a simple problem of astronomy. A
description of this method can be found for cxample in [4.1, pp. 290-292). In the
Appendices, Table A.4.l shows the timc of different days of the year that produces
shadow indicating the qibla direction from Dhaka, Bangladesh z'.

4,4.3.4 Other Methods

Twelve ecnturics of research have produced such a vast array of qibla detcrmination
mcthods that they can be covered only in large, dedicllted volumcs. There are both
approximate and exact methods, and the techniques they utilizc include graphical
constructions, mllthematical (trigonometric) computations, astronomical observations,
use of shadows, and specialized "qibla indicator" instruments. Most of these havc
little practical l/tility nowlldays, sincc equations such as (I) of the previous scction
provide accurate answers, and arc relativcly easier and more efficient to usc. On the
other hand, these methods often show great ingenuity, arc fascinating mathematical
 \

Bas;c Considerati()ns 4 -J}

reading, and are of much historica! importance. The interested reader may explore the
references.

Much work has abo been devoted (0 compiling qihla tables, which list the qibla either
for specific cities or as a fu.nction of latitudes and longitudes. Classical tables use the
values of longitudes, which are based on prime meridians that aTe now obsolete.
Among modem tables, I have already mentioned Baghayin [4.2J and lIusayn [4.12J
as representative work. The former gives the qihla for most of the well-known cities
of the world. The Jailer tabulates the qihla for (he range of latitudes from 89°N to
89°5 and longitudes from 179°£ to 1800W for each degree of latitude and longitude.
There are also works that provide similar data in the fonn of graphs rathcr than tables.

Thcrc is scareely any need for prodllcing more of thcsc once-admirable works of
reference, since any intcrested person can now gcncrate them instantly on a computer.
Qibla tablcs, much like trigonometric tables, are much less needed now since it is
nowadays easier to generate required values on demand than to look them up in a
table. Computer software is available to derive instantly the qibla for any place whose
latitude and longitude is known. This software is based on the mathematical
calculation of spherical trigonometry. The computer program Minaret for prayer
schedule and calendar computations also provides qibla determination times based on
this method." Another software named QiblaCak shows the qibla direction and
distance from any place of the world. For Dhaka (Latitude 230 47' 52.02714" N,
Longitude 900 24' 56.34024" E), the accurate qibla is 277.650 from the magnetic
north in clockwisc direction, i.e., 7.650 northward from the cardinal west dircction)('
(Fig. 4.3).

4.4,4 One Important Note

Qibla direction for Bangladesh, as popularly knmvn as the 'west' cardinal direction is
not accurate. As (here i~ scope to generate little controversy to this seemingly ncw
issue, this chapter elaborates all thc aspects ineli.lding definition, background, methods
of determination of qibla direction and its flexibility in shariah. An architect should
try to design with respect to correct gibla direction. But, if in an existing mosque, any
deviation is found with the accurate gib!a direction and it is very difficult to rectify, it
should be kept as it is. Thcre will occur no shortcoming in salat, as in this inevitable
situation; shariah allows tlexibility up to a deviation of 45" in both ways from the
correct gihla direction [4.28, p, 313]'1t is important to note that, none shonld try to be
over-particular and create chaos or confusion in this issue, as Allah dislikes going
excess and creating chaos especially with the issues of deen,'-7

References
[4.1] Abdali, S. Kamal: Prayer Schedulesfor North Ameriea, American Trust Publications,
Indianapolis, 1978.
[4.2] Baghayin, 'Abd al-Razzaq Khan: Ma'rifat ai-Qiblah (in Farsi), LC # 82-451332,11
1952.
[4.3] Bagvi, Malik Baiibir Ahmed; Determination oj the Direction ofQibla and the Mamie
Timings, Ashrat~ul-Madaris,Karachi, 1970.
[4.4J Bagvi, Malik Bashir Abmed: Fann-i Takhrij Samt-i Qibla wa Augat-i Mami (in Urdu),
Ashraf-ul-Madaris, Karacbi, 1970.
[4.5] Hannuri, Muhammad Yusuf: Bughyat al- 'Aribfi Masa'j/ al-Qiblah wa al-Maharib (in
Arabic), Matba'ah at-'Ulum, Cairo, 1939.
 Basic Considerations 4 - /3

[4,6] Berggren, J.L.: A comparison of four analemmas for delermining the azimuth of the
qibia, Journalfor the mstory of Arabic Science, VoL 4, NO.1 (1980). pp. 69-80.
[4.7] Berggren, JL: AI-Biruni on plane maps of the sphere, Journal for the Hi.'tory of
Arabic Science, Vol, 6, Nos. 1&2 (1982). pp. 47-95,
[4.H] AI-Bironi, Abu Rayhan: The Detennination of the Coordinates of Position.' for the
Correction oj Dis-tances Between Cities (Drab tah , d id nihayat al-amakin Ii-tash ih
. masafat al-masakin), 416 A.H.l1025, Translalion by Jamil Ali, American Univcrsily
of Beirul, Be;rut, 1967,
[4.91 Craig, James Ireland: The Theory of Map Projection.<, with Special Reference to the
Pr,!jeclions Used In the SUn'ey Department, Survey Departmenl Paper No. 13,
National Printing Press, Cairo, 1910. pp. 61-62.
[4,10] Diclionary ofScient!f1c Bibliography, Charles Scribners & Sons, New York, 1970-80,
[4.11] Durant, Will: The Story of CM/izalion.- Pan lV, The Age of Faith, Simon and
Schnster, New York, 1950.
[4, 12] llnsayn, Kamal aI-Din: Jadawil inhirq{at al-Qiblah Ii-jam!' b,qa' al- 'alam: Kebfa
directio,,", for the whale world (in Arabic and Enghsh), Dar al-Fikr al_' Arabi, Cairo,
1982.
[4, 13]lIyas, Mohammad: A Modern Guide to ASlronomical Calculations ofIslam,c Calendar,
Timing' & Qibla, Bcrita Publishing Sdn, Kuala Lumpur, 1984,
[4,14J Khan, Ali Muhammad: Sahih Sam/-i Qibla (in Urdn), LC # 79-931991,1970.
l4.15] AI-Khattabi, Muhammad al.'Arabi: 11m al-mawaq it: us"l"hu wa man ahijuh" (in
Arabic), LC # 89-968009,1986.
[4.16] King, Oa,id A; Astronomy in Ihe Sem'ce of islam, Collected studies series, CS416,
Valorium, Alder-shot, Hampshire, UK, 1993.
[4.17] Kyrala, Ali: A vectorial calculation of the dircction of qibla, Arabian Journal for
Se,ence & Enfl.ineering, VoL 2, No, I (November 1976). pp. 49-50.
[4.181 Ludhianavi, Mufti Rn,hid Ahmed: rrshad 01- 'Abid ila 1'akhrij al-Awqat wa Tawjih al-
MasaJid (in Urdu), Ashraf-ul-Madaris, Karachi, 1389 A.H.l1970.
[4.19] Don May: .'You Can't Build Ihal Mosque With a Compass," S"rveying and Mapping
(Quartcrly Journal ofthe American Congre" of Surveying and Mapping), Vol. 13, 1\'0.
3 (July-September 1953). pp. 367-368.
[4.20] AI-Razi, Fakhr ai-Din: Tajs/r al-Kabir (in Arahic), 8 voL, 1st Ed., Matba'at al-Bahiyat
al-Masriyyah, Cairo, 1357 A.H./1938,
[4.21] Nachef, Riad, and Kadi, Sam;" The SubstalUialion o,f the People of Truth /ha! the
Direc/ion oj AI-Qibla in the United States and Canada is to the SoutheaSI, Assoc. of
Islamic Charitable Projects, Philadelphia, 1414 AH ( 1993).
[4.22J Snyder, John Parr: Flallening the Ear/h.- Two Thousand Years afMap Projections,
University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 1993.
[4.23] Snyder, John Parr, and Voxland, Philip: An Album of Map Projection" US Geological
Survey Professional Paper 1453, US Govt Printing Office, 1989.
[4,24] AI-Ius!, Na~ir ai-Din: Na,ir ai-Din al-Tusi's Memoir on A,tronomy (al-Tadhkira fi
'ilm al-hay'a), Translatlon and commentary by F.J. Ragep, Springer-Verlag, New
York,1993,
[4.25] Thannvi, Maolana Ashmf Ali, (tran<lation in Bcngali- Faridpuri, Maolana Shamsnl
Ha4ue), Beheshri Jcor, VoL I, Emdadia Library, Dhaka, 1990.
r4,26J Eneyclop<Edia Britannica, Multimedia Edition, Encyclop",dia Britannica, Inc., UK,
Compnter CD version 1998.
[4.27] Thanuvi, Maolana Ashraf All, Ahkam,,1 Masjid, Jdara-i-Ifadate Ashrafiya, UP, India,
1418 HijrL
[4.28] Ahmed, Fakihul Asr Hadral Maolaua Mufti Rashid, Ahsanul Fatawa, 4" Ed., H M
Sated Co" Chawk Karachi, 1409 HijrL
[4.29] Shahid N. Shah; The A/im For Windows, Computer CD Version, Release 4,5, ISL
Software Corporation, USA, 1996.
[4,30] Khan, M Muh,in, Hadilh, Summarized Sahih Ai-B"khari, Riyadh, Dar-us-S.I.m PubliCa/ions,
1996.
 BasIc Considerations 4-14

Determined hy the different position oflhe sun [4,25, pp, 89-92].

The limil ,tarts from the nme ofsun<Cllil1 the reddish colour of the """,tern sky is vISible, U,naliy
it is around I hOllr 12 minute" [25. p, 90]. But, most of the mmquc, (e,cept some lJke Kakrnil
mosque, see Section 3.4,4) in Our country hurry for }ama 'at airno,l immediately after the "dha", •.,
if the waql is too narrow to make auy delay. Thi, praclice rL-maTkably differs to that of lhe
Slgnificaut mosque, of Meeca and Madiua, as reponed by [he performers ofll"ii, where a LL,ualgap
of"boUl 15 min~tes between adlum and Iqamm i, maintained. Even in our COlUltry,<ueh a lime gap
i, maintained during the month of Ramadhan. The musallies and mosqne authorily may try to
establi,h thi, nmTIl for all the nme and imply the due ,igmficance of adhan.
, Dclcrmined by observation on a population of25 musailles,

Pmctically observed on 30 person, of dilTL'rCntage group,

, (The dll'ection of) the place to ""hich Mu,lims must rum for prayer, now lhe Kaba at Mecca.

Program Dlrector of Numeric, Symbohc aud Geometric COmPUlanOn at the National Science
Foundalion (NSF), USA.

The Correci Qibia, PDF vCn<ion in Mtp:l/www.patrio!.netluscrsJabdali/flp/qihla.pdf; last revISed

September 9, 1997
, If a plane cuts a sph~'rC through the sphere's center, theu the spherc is cuI into two equal part,
(hemispheres). and lhe circle of intcrsecnon is called a great circle. A great circle has the same
center 'Uld radius a, thc _"Ph"", it:;eU; and is the largeS! cirde lhal ean he drawn on the sphencal
s\lrface.
, A rhumb line, al,o eallcd loxodrome or spberiCllI helix, i, a palh on the earth's su!face, wlucb cuts
all meridian, al a con,\an! angle,

'" This ls only approximate becanse Polans is off the true nonh by ,lightly te", than oue degree,

" Al-Khwari2mi', grcally influent,.l treanse on algebra gave thc namc to that discIpline. The word
algonlhm dcrh'cd fmm his "arne has become a household word with the spread of computers. AI.
Battani delermined """eTal astro"omicai qnamities with remarkable procislOn. I" trigonometry, hc
mtroduced new laws, new funclion" and new lormulations of old function •. Ahu al. Wafa made
Slgnificalll conrribllllon, [0 mathc-matic" and astronomy, He interrelatcd [h" ,i, main tngonometnc
functlOllS. He i" arguably, crcdited with discovering a componcnt of lhc moo,,'s motion,
redIScovered 600 years later by Tycho Brahe. lb" a1-lfuitham, rrunous for hi. umndational work ou
optlc" also worked prolifically in matbematics and astronomy. He was a pioneer of the scientific
method con,i'ting of obf,L'rVotion,bypothesis formulatioJl, deduction, and experimental venlkation,
Al-Biruui is describc<1 by Durant [4.11, p. 243] thus: "Philo,opher, hi,torian, traveler, geographer,
lmguist, mathematician, astronomer, poet, and phy,ici,t_d doing major and onginal work in all
these fields-he was at le"'t the Leibnit<, almost the Leonardo, of blam." AI.Tu,i systematized
tngonometry (plane and spherical)", a di'>Cipline indepeudent of astronomy. He 01'0 formulated a
non-Ptolemaic model of plauetary motion h",ed on spheres,

" Hah.,h al-Hasib iutroduced new trigonomOlric function,. Ibn Yunus compiled very accurate
astrouomical tables, ,tudied the motion of lhe pendulum leadmg to the invention of mechanical
clocks, and invemed ,everal astronnmical in'truments. Ibu al-Shatir con'truOled a model of
planetary movemenl', which, though geocentnc, was mathemalically iMnlical 10 the model giveu
by Copc'mieu, 200 yea", later. A single source for reading about [h" lifc and ,cientific contributIOns
of thc ah",e_mcntioned Muslim sCIentists IS [10]. For their conlribution, spccilically to the qibla
determinatiQu problem, a recommenMd 'larting poi"t i, [16]. ln spite of King's own ptolifLc work
and mauy othet reference, ciled by him, he laments [16, p. DC; 16] dial numc'rOu, 1,lomic
",tronomical works contaiuing qibla computaci"n, ,till remain beyond inve,tigation.

•
 Basic Considerarions 4 -15

" Al-Baltani's construclion, descnbed in [4.5, fIp. 4D-4I], [4.16, pp 103-107], ond [4.18, p, 360],
was inclnded in Mulakhkhas fi ai-Hai'a (1325 AD), nl-Jaghmini's textbook on a'lrOnnmy, A
commentrtry on this book, popularly called Sharh Chsghmini, has been part of the standard
curriculum of lbc sub continenlallslamio oolleges even in thc l(lth century. As the Sharh poinls oul
(n"nnuri [4.5. p. 40]), Al-n"ltani', mclhod does nol work (tho construction doc, not make sense)
for piac"" whose longitude diffeJ1<fnlm that of Mecca by 90° or more, The method is lhus not
appiicablo to North America. Bul if brul<-forced anyway, tbe construction wili yield a soulheast
dirCCli'ln for the qibla of mo" Nortb Americau localion,. This would be the charitable way of
expiaining l~e ruling from Ba,cilly [4,21, p, 58].

" Only on l~e days of spring and f.ll oquinox, around March 11 and Sepl<mber 21, dne, the sun rise
exactly from lhe ea,l and ,ct exaclly ill the west On other dal<s, lhe sunrisc and sunset duectiollS
deviate from easl and "'est The devlation, wbich is more prononnced .l higher latitudes, i, the
largest on the day' of summer and winter sOiMitc, around June 21 and December 2 i, Al-Razi is
characteristic.iiy mctioulO\ls in specifying lhe e""l and wesl as the direclion, of sunrise and ,un,Cl
during equinoxes.

" The Mercator m.p rcinforces this common fallacy.

" The qibla Compulalion lilerature often Jnlerchangcs lbe numerator Ilfld denominalUT of lhis equation
to make il' "C(llangeut fonnula." The arctan form is more conVeniL'Ill ,ince many calculators do
not provide the arccal funclion directly.

" The formula on p. 289 of [4.1J is ,iightly differenl because there tbe author used the oppo,ile sib'"
comention for longitudes.

'" Software libraries of mall1cmatieal fuucliollS usually havo a two-argument function alan2, If the
numerator and lhe denominator of the above equalion "c u'ed as arguments of thi, funclion, with
t~e SlgUSof coordinak, chosen according to the abo,'c oonvenlion, then the resulling qihia angle
automatically has the ab,olulc value between 0 Ilfld 180 degrees, and its sign is exactiy aoeording to
the abo"e convention.

" The Lalirude and Longitude is measure through GPS al Gul~han Ladies Park, Dhaka.

'" When the sun's declination i, lhe same as lhe lalirude of 'Orne location, the sun's po,ition at mxm
!~ere is at the zenith. lhal i" ,'ert;cally above that iOC'lion. II can be checked by computation 01'~y
COnsulling a table such as [4.1, p. 288] lhal l~e sun's d.clination on May 28 and July 16 is +21.4",
aboutt~e same as the wlirude of Meoea

" Tbe lime difference of Bangladesh is +3,00 h", fiom that of Saudi Arabia. S", the daylight saving
iocai lime of Bangladesh for Sllil ob,ervalion should be 15:18 and 15,27 rc'peelively on those two
dates.

" The melhod ean .1'0 b. used on dares close to May 28 and July 16 for determining the qibla
approxiruateiy.

23 This a\llhor performed the obse"",tioD HI 15,18 on May 28, 2000 at BOOT. Tbe findings are
approximalely similar to those calculaled malhemalically .nd by computer softw.re.

" The lable i, produced by computer softw.re 'Minamt' developed by S.K. Abd"ii, USA.

" De"doped by S. Kamal Abdali, run, on PC, and Macintosh, avaHable for .nonymous lip from lhe
inlcrnet directory http://www ,patrioLnoli "-,c,-,Jabdai ilftp!

" C.lculation is performed through thc compuler sofuvare QiblaCale vLO, developed by Dr. Mouznr
Ahmed, April 1998. This free software 18 avaj)abie at the internet address:
hltp:! I" w" .slarl; ghl.demon.co, uk/gib la OR http 1!www.ummah.ors.uk/softw.reluibla '.
~

,
"
 Basic Considerations 4 _16

" 0 People ofthe Scnpture! Do nol cxaggerate in your religiou nor ulter .ught concerning Allah savo
the truth, The Messiah, Jesus SOT1 orM.ry, was only a me"cnger of Allah, IlJIdHis word, which He
com-eyed unto Mary, IlJId" spirit ti-om Hinl, So believc in Allah and His messengers, and ,ay not
"Three". Ceasc! (il is) hct(~T for you! Allah is only One God, Far is il removed from Hi,
transcendent majesty th.t h. should have a son. Hi, i, all that IS m the heavens "nd.ll that is in the
earth. And Allah i, 'uffieient as Defender [The Hnly Qur'an 4: 171],

" The Library of Congress record munber (LC # 82-451332) has been included for thIS and other
referencts th.t do ~ot list theu own cily of puhlication or pubhshing org"ni,,"tion,

•
 Flgurr 4-J

Figure" 4.1 Aerial view: Nortem part of TlIj Mahal compleX," Agii: The mosque and the
guest bouse (Musaflr Khaana) arc seen at tbe closest and furthcst ends repeclivcly.
[SoumJ: 5.29, plat~ LXXXVII. Figurr IJ

~l
I[Q]
,
i
.J

Schematic Plan: Northern part ofTaj Mahat 0 """',

I.Tlj Mwl 2.Mosquc 3.CO\Irt
N
4,Cunl H"".., (Mu'fQfirK~ana)
:Figure 4.2 Examp1c-ofaxial diversity in the three typcsorbiiUding ill the same complex
of Taj Mahal, Agra. Aerial view (top) shows the resemhlance of building e1cments, but
the plan clearly distinguishes the mosque from others on the basis ofnxial parameter. J
[So""Cf: 5.30. p. 210. Figurr ~!5!...!"(jJ . .
 Figure 4-11

no CoiloJA lk:67IS Ilob

'I ••• II ~"•.•IIa ''"''''I

00
----,-----
2H1HlO

~ Uln B.orlng or B born A(degl: 271.6

L.til.de A:. !!!_J:~1.eI~NGS t.llgn.Uc D.dln.Uon.t A:. -0,05
L.nd mil•• from Ato B: 3212
Longl1.de A:. ~:_~r:.Et:,W

..!!.s Uln
llItil.de B: 2..j:IlS,] I<:,Ht:,s
LongItude B: P£I:H!I/".,E r;.W

11
.~-~
f! C.I..,lol. I
Fie ~, <ht(n, Ilob

I •••0' II "'"', IIa """"I 2H1HlO

llIlltud.:
Langll.d.:
~.
0
Dlbl. from II•• north: ~n.3
Dibl. Irom mlgnellc north: ~11.3
I
,
t.llg D.din.lIon: HI,ol L.nd mll.1 to t.llldcah:Pl0. •

Fig.4.): Direction of Knab:l (Qibla) from lhe GPS s1ation at Gulshan Ladies Pork,
Dhaka. Note: The Loti1Ude 23° .T ~2.027W N and longilUd. is 90" 24' ~6.,"024. I!, The
Mognetic ik:Irin& is (277.6+0.0S) 277.65", elocn"" po<IU,"". CakulaJiom; lind gnphics Scncmcd by
tbecomfllllCf son ••.••• QibbCIlc vl.O, ~""Ioped by Dr. Monmr Ahmtd. UK. April I99S.
 Chapter FIVE
Design Approach
• •
 Design Approach 5-1

5.1 Introduction
Usually mosques are placcd in a complex to support othcr functiol15. Madrasa,
Maktab, Hujra khana. Yatim khana and so on generally evolves as an integral part of
religious activity. For financial support to mosques and other religious activities.
sometimes shops, warehouse, Rmallresidential unitRetc. are conRtruetedto rent outl,
In this thesis work, only the mosque and the service facilities directly related to it are
taken into consideration. Other supporting structures remain beyond the scope of this
work.

IRlam,as a universal religion, haRgot unique capacity to adopt with and accommodate
different exceptions and variations prevailing in the global context. Except for some
major 'obligatory' aspect." it provides the ample flexibility in many relatively minor
'optional' issues. The inception of mosque is ,imple (elaborated in Chapter Two); the
prophet (S) led a simple life and proclaimed the deen as easy and simple [5.10, p. 37J.
And he warned not to act beyond limit in the name of deen [5.1, p. 15]. For designing
a mosque we cannot go for whatever we like especially when there are specific
religious bindings. Again, we should not impose excessive strictness whcre Islam
itsclfhas preposed flcxibility. In the following paragraphs, different aspcets of dcsign
of a mo,q"e are elaborated with special reference to theology and practice.

5.2 Spatial Analysis of Function

The architects follow a systematic analysis of function to derive a design proposal. In
the following scetions, a similar approach is followed to formulate some tentative
design criteria that a designer should pay attention to. These criteria are synthetic out
come of theological guidelines and prevailing practice.

In a mosque major functional spaccs can be identified as sa/at space, service space
and circulation spacc. The Spatial configuration and articulation may vary to certain
extent with the individual site condition. Other factors likc climate, building materials,
technology also plays important role to make variations. For the context of
Bangladesh. being those faetow almost similar in every part of it, the major spatial
features arc almost identical though some variations in space can be observed due to
those factors. In the following sections, these variationR can be exemplified
schematically.

5.2.1 Functional Flow Diagram

In the Fig. 5.1, an ideal example of'functional flow diagram' for a mosque is shown.
Obviously, all the spaces (e.g., stair, secondary entry etc,) may not be required and
some morc spaces (e.g., musaflr khana, yarim khana etc.) may be added to certain
mosques. But there are some prime spaces are takcn as the most important
components for a mosque design (e.g., main salat Rpaee,wazu space, toilet space etc.
. bordered with thicker lines in the figure).
 Dcsign Approach 5-]

In Bangladesh, qib/a is roughly towards Westl. Again, movement across the frontal
side of a musalli is forbidden in shariah [5.1, p. 123] (see also, Section 5.3.2.3 of this
chapter) and qatar forms from the West side of the salaz spacc and expands towards
East (sce Section 5.5 and Fig. 5.4.a of this chapter). These aspects determinc the
position of the main sa/at space at the Western side of the sitc and the primary
approach at the Eastern side from the adjacent road (Fig. 5.2). Sccondary approaches
mIght be added at South and North, which remail15acccssibic until the formation of
qalars crosses that point. As laharal is a prerequisite for safrit (see following
paragraph for detai]:,), the supporting facilities should be provided in thc service
spaces at primary entry and shonld be acces,ible from secondary entry, In fig. 5.2,
schematic drawings show the possible approaches to a mosque from adjacent roads in
din'erent situatiol15.

One musalli should be allowed to perform wharal in the fonn of wa;:u or wajib bath,
which is a pre-requisite or wajib for performing Sa/at in terms of Shariah. It is
maqruh tahnmi to enter in a mosquc for any Muslim who requires wajib bath [5.1, pp,
64 and 232]. And it is cvcn discouraged to enter a mosquc without wazl? Rather,
Allah will award one Muslim for nafl ltiqafif hc only stays in a mosque with wazu.
Thus, it is very much important to keep provision for anyone who wishes to perform
any of the above-mentioncd tah'lrat.

When other functional structurcs Eke hujra khana, madrasah boarding ctc. are within
the same boundary and requires to be accessed by thc samc main entry to the mosque
complex, an alternative approach should bc cstablish directly form entrance lobby.
This is to retain the sanctity of main mosque or its adjoining salaz spaces. It is
specially forbidden to use the mosque as a thoroughfare for usual circulation [5.1, p.
232; 5.12, p. 40].

Mosques in the overcrowded urban areas suffer from scarcity of space. A lobby spaec
should he provided where form service (waw and toilet) and sa/at space can he
approached independently. Espccially in sa/al ofjumu'a when musallies cxcecds the
capacity of the main sa/al spacc, the new comers have to disturb others to reach the
wazu khana or to rerum form the same to the salat space. New Market Baitul Arnan
Mosque is an example or this type of problematic situation (see Section 3.4.8 for
description and Appendices A.3 for drawings of the mosque). Even in usual case,
someone has to enter the mosque veranda before he gets the facility of taharat is not
an acceptable arrangement.

In the original plan of BUET Central Mosque, there was no provision for waw in the
toilet zone located in the southwest corner (sec Section 3.4.5 for description and
Appendices A.3 for drawings of the mosquc), Previously, after using the toilet, one
had to cross the salat space without taharat towards the waw area. The problem was
apparently ,olved by providing some provision for wazu within the toilct zone, which
gave birth to a new crisis. There are some du'a-i.masnunah, which are rewarding and
encouraged to recite for wazu as for many other 'amals [5.1, pp. 32-37] But it is
forbidden to recite those du'as when someone is within tile toilet area [5.1, pp. 87-88J.
SO,there should be a clear spatial division and distinction bctwccn toilet, wazu space
salal space ctc.
 Design Appwach 5-3

There should be a linkage with hujra khana to the main sa/a! hall through the mihrab,
so that as a part ofsunnah the imam or khatib can directly approach his place for sa/a!
or to deliver the khutba.

5.2.2 Zoning
Like any other type of buildings, a mosque has two basic functional zones _ served
and service. Served zones are the main sa/at space, veranda, sahn etc. and scrviee
zone includes the cntranee, lobby, toilet, wazu khana, store, circulation spaces etc.

There is another context of zoning on the basis of allowing shoes or nol. We may call
it 'shoe' and 'no-shoe' zones. A mosque is a sacred building. Its floor is used for
prostration. That is why shoes4 are not allowed in the sa/al spaces. This is strictly a
'no-shoe' zone. Everyone must use the space barefooted or with socks made of
acceptable materials5. On thc contrary, the toilet area should not be accessed without
shoes [5.1, p. 86; 5,13, p. 183]. This falls in to 'shoe' zone. Other spaces like, lobby,
WaZUkhana stair, store etc. has an option to be used with or without shoes. But for thc
ease of maintaining the main .\'alat space clean and sacred, these spaces, in most of the
cases, arc used as 'no-shoe' 7,one.

From very pnlctical reason, the 'shoe' and 'no-shoe' zones should not be scattered
rather they should be groupcd in definite 'two' clusters. This may save the musalUes
from the trouble of repetitive 'shoe-oft' and 'shoe-on' exereisc. A good number of
examples (e.g., mosques described in sections 3.4.3, 3,4.5, 3.4.6, 3.4.8 etc.) can be
cited for a troublesome arrangement of spaces with this type of problem.

For the case Bakshi Bazaar Mosque (scc Section 3.4.6 for description and Appendices
A.3 for drawings of the mosque), the architect somewhat rightly proposed the toilet
and the wazu khana in two separate blocks at the north and south side of the entry
lobby in his primary proposal (the drawings are preserved in the Department of
Architecture, BUET). Finally the southern service block was changed for the
accommodation of imam and muazzin, and the northern block waS adopted for both
the services in a tight arrangement; thus crcating the present crisis. Though, there has
all through been a problem of repetitive 'shoe-ofl' and 'shoe-on' as the ablution space
and sa/at space is connected with a 'shoe' zone.

5.2.3 Schematic Plan

The mosque of Prophet (S) consisting of main salal space (liwan), sahn, qibla,
mimbar and mihrab provided spiritual and physical guidelincs for spallal organization
for all later mosques. Within the guidelines ordained, as an acceptance to the regional
factors, an extended flexibility prevailed to develop the ultimate form and space of
individual mosque. For Bangladesh, Mosques are categorized into four groups - The
Early Mosque, The Intermediate Mosque (Group I), The Intermediate Mosque (Group
II) and The New Mosque'. Muslim rulers and rich influential individuals built the
Early Mosque and the Intermcdiatc Mosque (GrOllp J). Inhabitants of different
localities constructed the Intermediate Mosque (Group H) in their own area. Formally
trained architects designed the New Mosques [5.3, p. 6.2]. A retrospect of traditional
mosques of first two categories can be elassified according to their loon and design a,
the developers had ample scope to select the configuration, size and characteristics of
the desired site for their prcconceived design. In India and other parts of the world,
 Design Approach 5.4

there is a classical traditional spatial arrangement for a mosque with a strong

symmetry about the qib/o. axis (Fig, 1.2, 1.3 and 4.1). For community mosques of
category three, such classification is indeed difficult to establish, as the available site
and other constraints in the community largely influence the fonn and spatial
arrangement. Dcspitc of this diversity in ultimate fonn and spatial articulation, the
mosques follow some inevitable and common matrix, which can bc summarized in
teons of schemes. The following paragraphs will highlight on some schemes.

Scheme: A
As the nucleus of the generic pattern of a mosque, a simple rectangular shelter is
developed with a solid wall at the qib/o. or West Side. The rectangular sa/at space is
elongated in the north-south direction with windows in the shorter walls. The eastern
walls have the entrance in the central qibla axis. Additional doors are sometimes
found, but always in e~en numbers placed in symmetry about the qib/o. axis. Most of
the traditional mosques follow this scheme (e.g., Baba Adam Mosque, Munshiganj,
Section 3.4.15). The mosque is usually placed at the western end of the mosque site.
An additional number of musallies can be acconunodatcd in the eastern part at the
time of large congregations. It has scope for further expansion of mosque structure
towards castern direction. In Fig, 5.3.a, Scheme A: Floor Plan is shown in a simple
manner. Many of the community mosques follow a chronological development
initiated from this type of nucleus of a simple scheme, for example, Matir Masjid
(Mosque) at Khilgaon Choudhurypara, Dhaka [5.3, p. 6.11J.

Scheme: B
This scheme is a developed version of Scheme: A. The plan gets a formal shape with
compact and systematic arrangement. In Fig. 5.3.b, Scheme B: Floor Plan is shown.
The traditional mosques usually followed this sehemc. It has building elements like
sa/at spacc, riwak (cloister), sahn (open courtyard), wazu facility, mihrab, mimbar,
minar ctc. (Fig. 1.2, 1.3 and 4,1), The field study includes examples of mosques,
which reflects this scheme (see Section 3.4.6, 3.4.7, 3.4.8 etc.).

Scheme: C
This sehcme is a furthcr development of the Scheme: B. In the overcrowded urban
community, the mosques tend to grow vertically. The main sa/at spacc (liwan),
services and other supporting spaces remain as usual but thc sahn and riwak is usally
dissolved from and staircase is added to schemc: B. In this scheme of muUi-storied
stmcturc, flat roof comes obviously and domes no more remain as suitable
constructional elements. Fig, 5.3.c and 5.3.d shows this type of scheme in Ground and
First Floor Plans, The field study includes mosques, which resemble this scheme (sec
Section 3.4.1, 3.4.3, 3.4.5, 3.4.10 etc.).

5.3 Functional Spaces

In lhi5 section, aspect5 of individual functional spaces are discussed to derive the
design criteria. Obviously, individual site condition and community requirement may
givc different physical shape out ofthcsc overall guidelines, The author happened to
be a regular musalli of the North Shajahanpur Jheel Mosque and the Bakshibazar
Road Mosque (Section 3.4.3 and 3.4.6). So, a close physical observation of spaces
and their use pattern was possible for a long period. He takes the opportunity to cite
examples of prevailing pros and eons especially from these mosques and generally
 Design Approach 5-5
,
, from other mosques, which was observed during pilot survey and field study (Chapter
Three). In the following sub-sections, design criteria of different functional spaces are
elaborated in the sequence of approach to the spaces.

5.3.1 Entry
Entry 10 a mosque bears much significance, as it is a transitional space from worldly
to divine and profane to sacred. It requires a well-defined expression in terms of form
and space. in most of the mosques in our country, musallies put-off their shoes and
carry those in hands for safe keeping from being theft. Again, for egress, those shoes
are earned in hands 10 this entry point and put-on. Thus, this space remains busy and
usually generates congestion during ingress and egress. For the salat with very narrow
time gap between adhan andjama 'at (e.g. safar of Maghrib), musallies hurry to enter
• within a short span of time and develops congestion. Situation becomes worse at the
end of the salal (e.g. Fajr and Asr) having no sunnat-i-muaqqada after/arj salat in
jama'at. Though, there is sa/at of sunnar after the largest weekly jama 'at ofjumu 'a, a
pretty large number of musallies try to leave the mosque and create worst situation. It
is an irony of fact, that shoe-thieves have played a vital role to set design criteria for
this entry space. A wide entry or at least the shoe-change area should be large and
wide enough to mitigate the problem. The Scheme: 8 and C shows possible examples
for this aspect (Fig. 5.3.b and 5.3.c).

5.3.2 Circulation Spaces

Tn a mosque, some circulation spaces are also used as temporary salat space at the
time of largejamaat. In nsual smaller congregations, those can be distinctly identified
as circulation space. In the traditional Mughal mosques of north India, riwaq served
as a long and defined circulation space around sahn, which connected the entry and
services to the main salat space (Fig. 1.2, 1.3 and 4.1). Spaces that fall in the similar
category arc described in the following paragraphs.

5.3.2.1 Lobby
Entrance lobby should be spacious enough to connect services, stair, sa/at spaces etc.
Furniture for safe keeping of shoes can be placed in this space. Shoes carrying dirt
and filth of p'0fane nature should not be carried in the salat space according to
findings of shan'ah (elaborated in Section 5.3.4.3). In the Scheme: 8 and C (Fig 5.3.b
and 5.3.c), the lobby space is adorned with a good number of functions and
introduction of other facilities. Scheme: A has no formal lobby as such.

5.3.2.2 Stairs
In Schematic Plan: C, stairs are shown for upper floors. Due to scarciry of land, stair
is a common building element in the densely populated urban areas. To accommodate
the ever-increasing population, the floors arc added incrementally. But due to
structural reasons and lateral space limitation" the stairs width remains the same. A
crucial congestion, especially for egress, is a common scene in multi-story mosques.
The architect should try to predict future vertical expansion and ultimate pattern and
flow-load through the stairs, to identify the required width of the stair.

It is forbidden to cross the frontal space of a musalli when he is in salat [5.1, pp. 123,
144J. SO, multiple options for egress arc desirable. An architect's task is to check how
effectively multiple stairs, instead of a single one of equal capacity, can be placed at
 Design Approach 5-6

different point according to spacc use pattern. Multiple stairs, equivalent to a

consolidated one, serves well in teons of effectiveness and safely. In Schematic Plan:
C, two stairs are placed to conceptually highlight this postulation.

5.3.2.3 Olher Clrculalion Spaces

A mosque is a unique building, where floor is directly used for sa/al and other rituals.
Almost no fwniture used in the main salat space and no absolute circulation space can
be defined within this space. There is some circulation space in the wazu khana, toilet,
riwak, imam's access in the western side of main salat hall etc.

5.3.3 Salat Spaces

This discussion rcfers to the sa/at space for the male. About the presence of women in
the mosque, the Prophet (5) did not forbid them to attend public salalS in a mosque,
but pronounced that it is better for them to pray in private [5.26 p. 89; 5.27 p. 84;
5,12,p.21]7.

Sa/al spaces, on the basis of some fmer issues of shariah, can be categOriled as - main
and subsidiar,l.

5.3.3.1 Main Sa/at Space

There should be clear formal spatial demarcation for the main sa/al space. All the
fundamental shariah and sunnah strictly applies for this prime space of a mosque. The
space beneath and above this main sa/al space, up to the infinity, is considered as the
pari of a mosque [5.1, pp. 140-144]. No secular use or space is allowed within this
limit [5.1, pp. 145-150]. There is little J1exibility of using this limited area for some
jaiz business and other functions that generates some finance to support the
maintenance and other cost of the mosque [5.1, pp. 145-150]. But, the plan or scheme
for this secular use of space should be preconceived and declared before hand. If a
space is declared as a mosque and being used for sahli, it carmot be changed for any
other secular use, un1e8s the requirement is obvious, indispensable and reasons are
acceptable by shariah [5.1, pp. 150-155J. SO, the architect must be careful to analyse
the present need, and its future projection to allocate main sa/al space, Moreover, he
must make some easily perceptible formal and/or spatial features to differentiate this
main salaz space with the subsidiary spaces9. There is option either to include or not,
the veranda, sahn etc. in main salal space.

a) Multi-layers of Safal Spaee

For multi-layers of sa/at spaces, usually the foremost qatar of bottom most floor is
considered as first qatar. The foremost qatar of the next upper floor is taken as the
next qatar to the rear-most qatar of lower floor, It can be easily perceived if we
imagine the expansion of upper floors one after another on the ground in the direction
opposite to the direction of qib/a.

b) Lenl Changes in One Floor

To develop demarcation or distinction between different types of functional space,
sometimes the levels arc changed within the same floor. For the case of human
perception, it is found that, at least two steps or two consecutive level-changes should
be provided. In the case or the mosque described in Section 3.4.6, there is a single
 DesignApproach 5-7

step level-change, which very frequently causes the musallies to twnble and to get
hurt severely. In the case of the mosque described in Section 3.4.4, there is a ramp
connecting the levels of wazu space and main sa/at space in the gronnd floor. The
repercussion is similar to that of last example. Recently, bright colours are applied to
warn the users - a 'speed-breaker' in a building indeed!

c) Qatar spacing and Continuation of Jama'at

Another important aspect is the continuation ofjam a 'al with respect (0 the distance of
qatars. Due to level-changes, obstJuctions by part of built fonn etc., two consecutive
qatar$ are sometimes placed far apart. In the mosque of Section 3.4.6, the last qatar
of main sa/at hall and first qatar ofvcranda is in this situation. According to shariah,
if nvo consecutive qatar$ are placed apart in such a way that the effective qatar
distance becomes twice or more than the usual qatar distance, the jama 'at will be
signified as 'discontinued'. As a consequence, the mw,'I1!liesat the rear qatar$ will not
be considered as the muqtl1di of the same Imam and their safrit wilt be fasid or
abandoned [5.1, pp. 135-136J. SO,this type of qatar spacing should be avoided. For
any unavoidable circumstances, there should bc provision to form qatars, at least by
two musl1l1ie.I'IU,to maintain 'continuation' of jama 'al. For the case of mosque of
Section 3,4.6, a small qatar is formed in the door area (by 2/3 mU$allies in each door)
to achieve this continuation ofjam a 'at from main $ala! hall to the veranda,

Ql1tar spacing should be derived from the ergonomics for sa/at, so that everyone can
perform his sal111with concentndion and comfort. The standards about qatar spacing
is furnished in Fig, 6.3 of Chapter Six.

5.3.3.2 Subsidia'1' Salat Spaces

The spaces not deelared as the main salat space, but used for congregation can be
defined as subsidiary sl1ll1lspace [5.1, pp. 145-150].lt may include the veranda, Sl1hn,
lobby, riwl1k and any other place in the mosque premise. Some times, especially for
large congregation, the jama 'al even goes beyond the mosque boundary towards the
adjacent road or open field. During the 8111111, the area IS distinguished as '.",lat-space'
and should be used with the same level of dignity of a mosque [5.1, pp. 130-140J. As
soon as the sa/at is over, the place can be used as regular purpose. If it is a daily or
weekly phenomenon, the place should be kept sacred for next use for salat.

5.3.4. Services

5.3.4.1 WI1ZU and Bath Facility.

To aUain laharat is a wajib ritual for performing salat [5.1, p. 100]. One should not
enter into a mosque without laharat [5.1, p. 100]. So, a mosque should be equipped
with facilities to perform this significant and pre-requisite rite.

In the Schematic plans, the facilities for wazu and bath are placed at the entry for an
easy and immediate access, It is a sunnah to face the qlbla [5.1, p. 100J and sit on a
higher place, so that the water used in wazu docs not reach the person splashing or
any other way [5.1, p. 100]. The Wa2Ukhana (which is considered as a sacred space)
should be separated from toilet (which is considered as a non-sacred or profane
space), so that du'a-i-masnunah for wazu can be recited.

"
 De,<ign Approach 5-8

Optimum amount of\\'llter should be consumed for wazu [5.1, p. 32]. Wastefulness is
strictly prohibited in Islam and who does that is termed as the brother of shaitan [5.1,
p.34],

Types of Wazu Facility

Depending on the source of water, there is a variation in wazu facility. Tn different
mosques of Bangladesh, following types of wazu facilities are usually observed:

a) Supplied water in pipes and tap (bib-cock).

b) Pond or Dighi
c) Tank or Water Basin
d) Tube-well and Water Pot L '.

Type (a) is very common in urban areas. Some mosques in rural areas also have
shallow tube-well with electric pumps to accumulate water in over-head reservoir to
generate continuous water supply system (e.g., mosques of Section 3.4.1-3.4.12). This
type ofwazu facility is very wasteful. In Table 6.10 of Chapter SIX, one can find how
much extra water is required for this continuous water fiow system, Some measures
should be adopted to avoid Utis wastage of water. Allah does not like wastefulness, as
He says in the Holy Quran:

" .. but waste not by excess: for Allah loveth not the wasters,,'l.

Type (b) is commonly seen in rural areas, where waler is accumulaled in a pond or
dighi (e.g., mosque of Section 3.4.14). The used water is discharged directly in the
same source of water. This type of arrangement involves very sman running cost.
Usually, some steps arc developed to sit on, in squatting position, for perfonning
wazu. According \0 shariah13• the minimum size for this type of wazu and bath is
acceptable if the size of the pond or dighi is at least 20.9 m2 (100 cubit square) in area
and so deep that its bottom is not visible from surface [5.1, p. 46].

Type (c) is apparently similar to type (b). But in this case, water is accumulated
artificially in a tank usually made of concrete and significantly, the used water is
usually discharged in a separate drain; not in the same tank (e.g., mosques of Section
3.4.1 and 3.4.4). The surface of water is maintained at almost the same level of sitting
platform. Sometimes scats are provided for ease to perfonn wazu.

Type (d) is also found mostly in rural areas, where continuous supply of water cannot
be provided or sufficient space is not availahle to dig a pond elose to the mo,que.
Water is usually collected in small water-pots or pitchers from a hand driven tube-
well and wazu is perfonned in a nearby space. Sometimes, this facility is provided as
an addition to those of other types (e.g., mosques of Sections 3.4.14 and 3.4.15). The
minimum amount of water is consumed in this type of wazu facility (sec Table 6.10 in
Chapter Six),

The architect should decide the type of wazu facility to be adopted for a particular
mosque basing on the possible source of water, financial capacity of the eorrununity
and other related issues. Standards for type (a), being the most popular and convenient
one, are elaborated in Chapter Six (Fig. 6.5).
 Design Approach 5-9

Bath Facility
A mosque should be provided with bath facility for those who need it as a wajib or
sUllnat rite [5.1, pp. 60 and 205]. For the person performing itiqa/, it becomes an
absolute necessity to provide bath facility within the precinct or a mosque [5.1, p.
271].

In the Schematic Plan: Band C, the baths are shown in the toilet zone. It may be
provided even in different sub-zone within this zone. In schematic Plan: A, a pond is
shown for wazu facility, which is also used for bathing. Shariah dictates a minimum
si7:e for any water reservoir to be used for wazu or bath, which is 20.9 m< (100 cubit
square) in area and so deep that its bottom is not usually visible from the surface [5.1,
p. 46J. There is a type or open bath for group use (e.g., mosque of Section 3.4.4),
where rresh water is taken from a big tank and used water is discharged in a drain.
Baths should be enclosed, as open bath is usually discouraged in shariah unless for
absolute necessity [5.1, p. 43],

If bathtub is placed in a bath, an auxiliary shower must be provided. A small amount

of stagnant water is not aeecptable for wajib bath (minimum amount is mentioned in
the preceding paragraph). Some water must flow over the body and every base of skin
hair must be wet [5.1, pp. 42-43]. For this reason a shower is a significant necessity.

5.3.4.2 Toilet Facility

A toilet of a Muslim has some unique and significant features. It is basically
considered as a profane space. Reciting from the Holy Qurafl, du 'a or even uttering
the name of Allah is forbidden within a toilet space [5.1, pp. 87-88]. The du'a-i-
masnunah should be recited berore entering into and after exiting from the toilet space
[5,1, p. 87]. So, there should be spatial and fonnal features remarkable enough to
denote the limit or extent of a toilet space.

It is forbidden to use the toilet facing the Qibla or keeping it in the backside [5.1, p.
87]. For Bangladcsh, thc qihla direction is roughly towards West'4. So, no toilet
fixture should be placed in East-West direction.

In Islam, to attain cleanliness is not merely getting somchow free from dirt or filth; it
is rather a ritual with some definite activities. After toilet activities, it is a sJmnah to
use an absorbent materials" as kulukh'o [5.1, p. 86]. So, there should be provision of
extra space for movement during use of kulukh and bins to dispose used kulukh
materials. To usc wster for ultimate cleanliness is in most of the cases wajib and in
some of the casesfarj [5.1, p. 86]. So, arrangement should be also kept to attain
cleanline>s with water.

Ifwater mixed with excreta splashes up from W.e. (Water Closet) and wet part orthe
body or cloth, those become profsne and requires thorOllgh wash as directed by
shariah [5.1, pp. 81-85]. So, the W.e. is not a right choice; rather an Indian one (Low
Pan) may serve well. If W.e. is used in ea,e or acute emergency, a low-down
arrangement should be kept [or ultimate cleanliness with water. Selection of urinal
fixture will also follow the same criteria, so that the urine does not splash up. To
urinate in standing position is prohibited [5.t1, p. 87]. So, the urinal fixture should not
be of standing-type.
 De,ign Approach 5-10

5.3.4.3 Safe-keeping of Shoes and Umbrellas

(a) Safe-keeping of Shoes

It is an irony offact that shoes17are stolen, in many of the mosques in Bangladesh, if
kept unearcd and unobserved at the entry space. Measures to tackle this unfortunate
activity have added some unique features in mosque architecture in this country. Extra
congestion is created due to stop-over created in the human traffic some activities at
the entry for shoe-off, picking them up in hands, and again at the time of exit,
carrying them from mosque, placing them properly on ground and putting those on.

It is rather a bigger problem to keep those dirty and profane shoes safely without
violating the sacredness of the mosque. It is strictly forbidden to carry anything
profane inside a mosque [5.1, p. 232). Shoes have every chance to accumulate dirt and
filth of profane category [5.1, p. 232]. So, ideally, shoes should not be allowed to
carry in side the sala! space. But only considering the mental anxiety of the musallies,
which may hamper the concentration in salat, shoes are allowed to carry in hands to
keep inside the sala! space. Options for safekeeping of shoes are observed in different
mosques. Some of those can be considered for adoption with modifications.

(a) To deposit the shoes to an appointed person at the entry might be an option.
During thejama 'a! of sala! that person should lock the shoe-shelf to participate in
jama 'at. The latecomers fail to avail this facility should carry their shoes inside
the mosque, which will definitely disrupt the main objcctivc. Moreover, it adds
some extra running cost to pay salary of the appointed person.

(b) To keep the shoes on a long strip of cloth placed in front of each qatar (e.g.,
mosque of Section 3.4.6 etc.). It is observed that water drips from the wet shoes
and reaches the floor, the place of prostration. It is not acceptable on the question
of sacredness, Moreover, the cloth-strip adds in the qatar spacing, decreasing the
capacityofa mo,qlle.

(c) To use the alcoves in the sidewalls or boxes along the qatars (e.g., mosques of
Sections 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, etc.) is a very common arrangement. The shoe-boxes
seem to be very popular one as those were found in many mosques of pilot survey
and case study. It can prevent dripping water from the shoes to wet the mosque
floor and the dry-dust cannot spread out. Moreover, it can be used as a barrier for
salat. Jt is forbidden to cross the frontal space while a musalli performs salat 18.

The architect should take this issue seriously in the context of theology and practice.
It is recommended to arrange some device in the entry lobby. For the community
mosques, every regular musalli can be allocated with a locker-cell in a shoe-shelf.
Number or key may operate the locks. In market or commercial places, initially this
system may be inconvenient for the newcomers. But gradually the musallies are
expected to become familiar with this new system. Architecture is not destined to bow
for whatever in practice; rather it should try to rectify those through architectural
approaches.

•
 Design Approach 5-11

(b) Safe-keeping of Umbrellas

Rainy days prcvail almost through one fourth of a year in Bangladesh. So, it be<:omes
sigmfieant to keep provision for wet-umbrellas. Usually, tbe musalfies keep those
within the salat space in whatever way they find. Most of the time dripping water
wets the floor. The problem may be resolved in a malUler similar to that applicable for
shoes, mentioned in preceding paragraph. In addition to that, drainage system should
be provided to dr..;n out dripping water from the umbrella shelf

5.3.4.4. Storage Faetlity

In a mosque, storage facility is required for some furniture and equipments. Following
are some of the furniture and equipments usually stored in a mosque.

(a) Beds for deceased: usually 3 in number - for bath, salat ofjanaza and another for
children (optional).
(b) Shelves: for religious books, stands for books, safe-keeping of shoes and persona!
belongings etc.
(c) Linen store: carpet, cloths to cover floor, cloth for temp'orary shelter over the shan
etc.
(d) Maintenance store: spare furniture, fixture, maintenance materials and
equipments.
(e) Store for maktab: furnitlJre, support materials etc,

The store size may vary according to the capacity and use-pattern of individual
mosque.

5.3.4.5 Cooking and Dining Facilities

The work of dawa or tabliguc is one of the important duties of a Muslim. The groups
devoted for this work move mosque to mosque and stay for some (usually three) days
in each mosque. They requlfe facility for cooking and dining. Though dining is juiz
for the mutaqij, still it is better to design an additional space ifpossible.

5.4 Building Elements

5.4.1 Floor
As prostration is performed on the floor, it has become a significant building element
to be taken care of. It should be finished with such materials, so that it can be
comfortable to use and easy to maintain. The tactile quality should be suitable for
both summer and winter.

Materials with relatively low heat conductivity (e.g., wood) may serve well. Usually
our mosque floors arc finished with patent stone, terrazzo or, in some cases, stone
tiles. In summer time, the tactile quality ofthcse matcrials are quite acceptable, while
it is not 50 in winter. Affluent communities soke the problem by placing floor mat or
carpet on the floor. Some mosques use very expensive carpets all year round (e.g.,
3.4.1). So, the architect should explore the suitable floor materials appropriate for
particular mosque with re>pect to above-mentioned criteria.
 Design Approach 5-12

5.4.2 Wall
For our country. qibla i~ roughly towards the west So, everybody faces towards this
wall. For the sake of mental concentration there should not be any external view
through any opening in this wall. Our local climate also discourages any opening in
the west wall. which may eanse direct sunlight to enter in the interior space. As a
res "It, all mosq"es have blank we,t wall. There should be an entry for imam
(schematic plan: B & C, 5,2.3), which can be also used at the time of salat ofjanaja
(in some unavoidable situation),

A qatar for salat fonns from the mid-point of first qarar and expands syrrunetrieal1y
both the way, Again qatars propagated in the opposite direction of qibla (Fig. 5.5.a)
and ends at the cast wall. So the entry is provided in the east to keep that operable till
the space fills up.

In hannony to our airflow pattern windows arc placed in the north and south walls for
cross ventilation. If shading devices are capable enough to protect the interior space
from direct sun light and rain, there is every scope to propose the whole north and
south wall as window. In Scheme: B & C, the north and south wall are shown as
window wall except some small structural part.

5.4.3. Roof
In the early development phase of a mosque, until R.c.C.19 was invented, it was not
pos,ible to con,truct long span flat roof. During that period roofs were constructed
with certain structural approaches in the form of dome, vault etc. (Section 2.3). The
profuse usc of these forms - especially the domes in mosques of early Retiod has
placed them as the iconic feature for a mosque. Nowadays, very large span 0 roof, are
being constructed in flat roof. For multi-story mosques, there is no alternative for flat
roof. Despite of all these facts, architects crave for somc conceptual expression, which
go beyond mere technical facls. Just as an echo of tradition or popular identity of a
mosque; sometimes domes are applied still today.

5.4.4 Mihrab

The use of the word mihrab to denole the niche placed in the mosque in the direction
of salat connects quite well with the usual u,age of the word. Mihrab did not
originally belong to the mosque, it was taken over form the church and it is evident
that the innovation found its way into the mosque by a purely architectural way. The
mihrab became the place where the imam stood during the salat_

Mihrah has become an outstanding fcaturc from intcrior and exterior as wcll. It
signifies the place for imam and simultaneously plays a positive role in acoustics as a
reflector of imam's voice. A carefully designed mihrab can serve the pwpose
effectively.

As the imam's position should be at the centre of qatar [5:1, p. 1~3J, obviousl!, the
mihrab should be at mld-pomt of qibla wall. For any unavOldab1c cIrcumstances the
mihrah position can be shifted to southward, so that greater part of the qatar remain at
the right side of/he imam [5_1, p_ 143].
 Design Approach 5-13

for multi-stoned mosque, the foremost qatar of the bottom-most floor being the first
qatar, the mihrab should be just in that bottom most floor2, As the congregation in
the upper floors is actually eontinl.lation of same jama'at in lower floor, the mihrab
may be omilted in upper floors. Though, there is no harm to add one for the putpose
of formal expression or to put a punch in that floor area to hear and view the imam.

5.4.5. Minaret and Corner Turrets

The primitive mosques had no minaret. When the adhan call was introduced, Hazrot
Bilal (R) is said to have summoned the faithful in Madina for the salat from the roof
of the highest house in the vicinity of the mosqlJe:!J. Cresswell has the similar views
[5.6, p. 5]. According to 1. M. Bloom,

"The idea ofa minaret first aro,e under the Umayyad dyna,ty in Syria, where
Muslims first came in contact with Syrian church tower, which they adopted
and spread throughout the lands they conquered. In 54/673, four minarets or
sawom; were erected on the roofofthe 'Ann mosque in Fustat (present Cairo)
by the Umayyad governor of Egypt" [5.7. P. 55].
,
Creswell also identified them as the first reference to a minaret in Islam [5.6, p. IS].

Minaret or.tower, the essential feature of a conventional mosque in the Islamic world,
was discarded in Bengal in the early Islamic period [5.32, p. 155]. The adhan is
generally chanted from the foreeourt. Since most of the mosque in Bengal were very
small and served small mral communities, no tower or minaret was needed [5.32, p.
155].

Instead of minaret, a distinctive type ofturrct (one at each comer) is very common in
early Islamic architecture in BengaL Those were built either as comer strengthening
elements or merely as ornamental appendages [5.7, p. 55].

In the urban context, mosques are usually placed in a tight site, closely surrounded by
other multi-storied buildings, In most of the cases, the identifying features of a
mosque are not visible from a dislant or even a close position, In most of the cases,
the mosque itself being multi-storied, dome cannot be placed on the rooftop as a
distinct identifying feature. Sometimes the musllies cannot hear the adhan even they
arc dclivered through loudspeakcr placed on the rooftop of the mosque, as
surrounding multi-storied built forms obstruct the sound.

Due to all thesc practical rcasons, minarets arc bcing added in thc urban mosqucs. But
according to shariah a minaret is not a part of the mosqlJe and even the donation for
construction of a mosque cannot be used for a minaret [5. I, p. 231]. Turrets being the
integral parI of the mosque itself as a structural system, it docs not fall into this
category. But in modem R.c.c. frame-structure, it &eems no more necessary. In the
load bearing brick structure it was uscd in the mosques of early Islamic period of
Bengal. A relatively recent example is Kakmil mosquc (Scction 3.4.4).

5.4.6 Openings
A mosque has openings for climatic reason. In the early phase of mosque design
arches were uscd in the uppcr part of the openings. This arcuated method of
construction was already heing uscd by othcr than Muslims. But it was so profusely
 Design Appmach 5-14

used in the mosques, that it becomes an integral feature of a mosque, Alter the
invention ofR.C,C., thero was no requircmcnt of arches as a construction element, but
the use of this 'popular' element continued for the sake of tradition and identity.

For our country, west wall being the qibla, usually there is no opening on that wa1124•
Only to provide an entry for thc Imam and for salat ofjanaja in special situation [5.1,
p. 220J, there is a door close to the mihrab. Windows are placed in north and south
wall mainly for vcntilation, light and view. Some times, doors are also provided to
generate access to the veranda or secondary entry. Sill hcight of window may be low
enough for the comfort of the musalli, who uses the noor for sitting or sijdah. It
should not be similar to that of a residence or office where working plane is at a
higher level.

According to theological guidelines, a qatar starts from the mid-point of a row and
expands both-way symmetrically [5,1, p. 143J (Fig. 5.4.a). For accessibility towards
the mihrab or to the mid point of a qatar, a door is required at the mid point of eastern
wall (on the qibla axis). In the last qatar, when the musallies stand at the door, the
late-comers do not get any access to the two ends of that qatar. This practical problem
can be resolved by providing at \cast nvo extra doors at two ends in the eastern wall.
Extra doors, other than the central one, should added in pairs and placed
symmetrically about the qibla axis, for efficient accessibility in accordance to the
norm of expansion of qalar in symmetry. To avoid congestion especially for egress,
the doors should be wide enough. Number, placemcnt and width of doors should
conform to Bangladesh National Building Code [5.8, pp, 4-13 and 4-23]. Some
standards particularly applicable for a mosque are furnished in Section 6.4,8 and
Table 6.7 in Chapter Six.

5.5 Configuration of Space

The salat space of a mosque follows some unique paramcters to generate a defined
configuration. Other spaces (like toilet, store etc.) may have their own shape or
configuration according to specific functions. In the following sections, some
significant parameters for configuration of mosque proper are discussed.

5.5.1 Two-dimensional Configuration

Keeping the qatar in a straight line is wajib [5.1, pp. 143-44]. This generates a distinct
axis perpendicular to the qibla axis. The length of each qatar should be kept equaL In
any unusual and unavoidable circumstances, first qatar (or qalars in the frontal part
of ajama 'al) might be longer than that (or those) in the rear part of the jama'at ".
Again, the qatars propagate in the opposite direction of qibla direction; i.e" toward~
east in the context of Bangladesh. This very basic phenomenon of formation of a
jamaal ultimately defines a rectangular salat space (Fig. 5A.a).

Every one should be able to hear the imam while he recites from the Holy Quran in
salat or discusses the religious issues in khutba1' or Baiyan21. Moreover, for religious
discussion, the imam and musallies should be in visual contact. All these requirements
deduce another parameter that the periphery of the jama 'at or congregation is
preferred to be at equal distance from the Imam. Thus, a salat space evolves as a
rectangle with a proportion of I:2; i.e., if the east-west dimension is x, the north-south
dimension will be 2x. Figure 5.4.b graphically portrays this postulation. Fig. 5.5
 Design Approach 5-15

shows the grids in X and Y-axis, which generates the salat space for mosque proper
with this proportions, i.e., x:y = 1:2. If there is no indispensable constraint or binding,
the architect is suggested to deduce a rectangular salat space of 1:2 proportions.

For the optimum levcl of visibility, thc furthcst mu.~alli of a jamu'ut, especially for
religious discussion, should be within 15.24m [5.16, p. 363]. Thus, the mosque proper
should be preferably with a width of approximately equal to or less than 15.24m and a
length double to it (30.48m).

Acoustics is another determinant for length, width and height of a mosqne. To avoid
ccho in a mosque, walls or othcr hard surface of the mosque interior, especially that
opposite to fmum (eastern surface, according to our local context) should not be more
than 17m apartl!, especially while he delivers khutba or any religious speech (see
section 5.8.5 for details).

5.5.2 Module, Grid and Bay

The space required for safat fOmls the basic module of a mosque propcr (Fig. 55 and
Section 6.4.2 of Chapter Six). Grids along X-axis (qib/u direction) are usually fOmled
by some qatars (or in rare case, even by a single qatar). In Fig. 5.5, the qatar spacing
is shown as 'g'. The clear dimension in 'x' should be the mLlltiple of qatar spacing plus
the clearance with the peripheral building surface (wall, column etc.). In Fig. 5.5, this
clear dimcnsion is, x = 5g + 2(1/2 c) or, 5g + e. So, the grid or centre-to-ecntrc
distance orthe structural supports or the grid should he,
Gx=5g+e+2(m/2)
or,Gx=5g+e+m.

The space width for sa/ai, 'h' in Fig. 6.3, is thc basic module for the mosque propcr
along Y-axis (across qibla direction). So, the total clear dimension along Y-axis or a
mosque proper should be, y = the 'multiple of h plus 3f (Fig. 6.3). To achieve the
proportion x:y = 1:2, 'y' should be equal to '2x' (see Section 5.5.1), which should be
taken as equal or as close as possible to the qatar length, i.e., 'multiple ofh plus 3f.

The span of the structuml support should be so chosen to avoid any freestanding
structural member within the main salat space, which may acts as a visual obstruction
for religious discussion and other functions. Until RCC was invented, it was a trouble
to construct long span salat spaces. Along Y-axis (across qibla direction), there
should bc odd numbcrfs of bayfs (1, 3, 5 etc.) to avoid a structural member on the
qihla-axis, on which thc mihrab and the main entry is placed. There are 3 bays with a
grid ofGy for the case ,hown in Fig. 5.5.

Discussion on two-dimensional configuration, module, grid and bay might be

summarised as,
1) Y = 2x = 2(g x n., + e) = h x nm + 3f = Gx x nb -------------------------------- [1J
(n., = Number of qatars, l1b=number of bays; preferably odd numbers,
nm = number of musallies per qawr)
2)x=gxn.,+e ----------------------~-.------- [2J
3) Gy= Yf n,= 2(gxn., + e) Inb= (hxnm + 3f) fnt --.----------------------------- [3]
4)G,=gx~+c+m -------------------------------- [4J
 Design Approach 5-/6

5.5.3 The Third Dimension

For any architectural space, the third dimension 'height' is detennlned by physical and
psychological requirement. The elearance up to the maximum hand-reach of a person
from his working plane might suffice for his physical requirement. But a sense of
'tightness' may still prevail in his perception of space. This abstract phenomenon of
human perception is very difficult to explain in definite and direct terms. The
perception of space and the parameter of 'height' thereof, is dependant on many
factors, some of which might be listed as,

a) PhYi>icalspace and cleanmce for particular function

b) Aspect of visibility
c) Purpose and length of stay in a space
d) Environmental condition, colour of surrounding materials etc.
e) Visual connection with outer spaces
l) Familiarity or acquaintance with (he space
g) Personal state of mind

The fir:<;ttwo aspects arc relatively tangible and have some quantitative basis to
deduce some criteria. Others have many abstract variables, which may require an
elaborate research to establish some substantial guidelines. In this thesis, the first two
aspects arc analysed without considering the variable conditions generated by other
aspects.

Floor is the functional plane of a mosque. The users require a elearanee up to the
maximum hand-reach from the 1100r. It is a common practice to use ceiling-fans,
suspended lighting fittings etc. in mosques of Bangladesh. So, the total physical
requirement for ceiling height or vertical dimension,
ep = (i + j + k) ------------------------------- [5]
where, i = Suspended equipment height (Fig. 5.6)
j = Clearance
k = Maximum hand-reach.

Usual household suspended equipment (fan, light etc.) height is in average 0.5 m. The
usual clearance is O.2m in averagc. Considering 3 Standard Deviation, the height of a
male is 1.121m that covers 99.9% of Bangladeshi population (Fig. 6.2). The
maximum hand-reach for this height is 2.23 m. So, (he physically detennined clear
height of a space,
cp = (i + j + k) = 0.5 + 0.2 + 2.23 = 2.93 m. .---- .• -.-------------------- [Sa]

This height is usually adopted in residential spaces and may suffice for a mosque. But,
as the mosque space is much bigger than usual residential spacc, this height secms to
be visually 'tight' for a mosque. The phenomenon might be explained from the
principles of visual acuity. Ability to recognise familiar shapes falls off very rapidly
above the vertical angle 30" [6.3, p. 363].

Let us assume, a person is standing a( the mean po<;ition on the horizontal plane of a
space and looking horizontally (Fig. 5.6). He will see the upper edge of the space if
the ceiling is placed at 30° from the horizontal line of sight. For this situation, the total
height of the space is, the eye-level (v) plus the vertical component of visual acuity

,
(v'). So, if a horizontal plane is placed at this height, the visibility is utilised to its
 Design Approach 5-17

optimum scope and conveys a perception of 'well-proportioned' space, Any plane

lower than this level may psychologically act as a hindrance or bamer to the scope of
visibility and evoke a feeling of 'tightness'. Again, a plane above this level may secm
as 'beyond the scope' for usual vlsibility and may develop a feeling of a 'loose' spsec,
which is perceived as 'monumental' or 'out-of-scale' depending on how much the
plane goes beyond the scope of usual visibility. The postulation can be
mathematically expressed in the following formula, whieh can be applied to deduce
the optimum clear height of a space for a good visual proportion. As mentioned at the
beginning of this Section, the perception of space is a complex resultant of many
factors. The following formula should no! be taken as absolute and sole parameter to
define a space; rather it should bc regarded as one of the parameters and as a method
of approximation, which requires flJrther research to establish some more
experimental basis.

Visually determined dear height of a space,

c, = v + v' (Fig. 5.6).
Here, v = Eye-level
v' =Vertieal component of visual acuity =1', x 1X tan e
(1 = diagonal of the space.
Cross-point of diagonals is the 'mean' position for an observer on the horizontal
plane).
Since, v' = Y, x 1 x tane = Y, "(Xl + r)x tan 30° (As, 1', X 1= y, "(x2 + yl) and e =
30°)
c, - v + y, "(x. + ]) x (an 30° -------------------------------- [6)

For a mosque, value ofv = 1.552m (the standing height is 168.75 em considering 2
Standard Deviation; (hat includes 99.75% of Bangladeshi population, see Fig. 6.2).
c,. = 1.552 + Y, "(Xl +r) X 0.577
or, e, = 1.552 + 0.289 "(Xl + b2) [6a)

The working clear height (c), shown as 'z' in Fig. 5.6, should be the greater one from
(he two heights (cp and e,,) detenllined on the basis of physical and visual
requirements. In different working conditions and space features, some variation in
considering the value for 'i', T, 'k' and V might be obvious 19.

The postulations on configuration of space might be sum up with the following

equations (Fig. 5.5 and 5.6):

1) y = 2x = 2(g x llq + e) = h x n," + 3f= G, x nb --------------------------- [IJ

(llq= Number of qatars, l1b-number of bays - preferably odd numbers,
nm = number of musallies per qatar)
2)x=gxnq+c --------------------------- [2]
3) Gy= y I ni>= 2(gXllq +c) I nb= (hXnm + 31) Ini> --------------------------- [3]
4)G,=gXllq+e+m -------"-----"------------- [4]
5) er = (i + j + k) (in general)
= 2.93 m (for a mosque) --------------------------- [5]
6) c, = v + Y, "(xl + yl) X tan 30° (in general)
= 1.552 + 0.289 "(Xl + l) (for a mo>que) -------------------------- [6]
7) The working height 'c' is the greater one from cp and c,. --------------------------- [7]
 Design Approach 5-18

Basing on these postulations, the substantial relationship of length, width and height
of a space for mosque proper is shov<'TI
in Table 6.9.

5.6 Building lind Finish Materials

Criteria for selection of building and finish materials for a mosque may be as follows:

a) It should be cost effective in terms of basic cost, maintenance cost and expected
lire. This concept of Life-cycle-costing should be considered rather than just
considering the basic cost. The concept of austerity and simplicity should be kept
in mind for decision-making. This aspect is elabonlled in Section 4.2.

b) Finish materials should be as much as maintenance-rree. Frequent maintenance in a

place, where obligatory salat is performed five times daily, might cause serious
inconvenience to a good number ofmusallies.

c) Floor is directly used for sa/al and other religiolJs activities; so it deserves a
considerable level of tactile quality. Extra care should be taken 10 sclcct the
materials, so that the activities can be performed with comfort and convenience.

5.7 Aesthetics
Islam as a religion played a significant role in inspiring the Muslim architects. To
substantiate this postulation, Islamic building have been studied and analysed in
details to reveal the precepts of harmony, proportion and other aspects of aesthetics.
Some exemplary study even shows that there is an empirical basis of judgement that
mathematical calculation is an integral part of Muslim arehitectural aesthetics [5.20,
p.IS).

Some other elements that constitute the basis of this aesthetics are: a sense of
hierarchy, a readiness to exploit symbolism, a love of lavish decoration whose
functions go beyond mere display; perhaps a leaning towards the use of whim [5.18,
p.l4).

5.7.1 Hierarchy
Primarily, hierarchy is a means to arrange the space in accordance with the sequence
of fundion. A user encounters the required facilities in an order to ultimately reach
the mosque proper. There is an axial emphasis in generating this order from the very
beginning of mosque architecture. but it attained a perceptible level in the mosques of
later period [Fig 5.3.b and c]' This axis is essentially practical means of visually
asserting the qibla (Fig. 1.2, 1.3 and 4.1).

5.7.2 Symbolism
The basis, development and implication of symbolism in lslamie architecture are
complex issue to explain. Mosque architecture - like other Muslim building types -
rejected sculpture and other figural decoration. As an alternative approach, some
elements become most distinctive and ubiquitous in different building types of
Islamic heritage, which can by classified a,-

a) Building elements
b) Decoration
 Design Approach 5-19

5.7.2.1 Building elements

The technical vocabulary of construction used in mosques of early period was derived
almost entirely from the repertoire of ancient Near Ea,t and e,pecially of
Mediterranean Roman art. As Oleg Graber describes:

But almo,t alway" these borrowings were modified and transfigured in a way
that is remarkably consi,tent, Novelties and transformations acquired a life of
their own. They grew, withered away, and revived o~er the centuries,
becoming the visually perceptible fabric of the Muslim world. They provided
the faithful with a recognizable setting from Morocco to Indonesia and made
non-Muslims aware oflhe presence of unique phenomenon [5.19, p, 78].

Those clement, - like domes, arches and vaults - initially served the main purpose of
structure. But the profuse use and gradual refinements established those elements as
integral part of a mosque, though those are no more inevitable as structural means
after modem innovation.

Minaret. ba,ically not an integral part of a mosque, evolved chiefly as a symbol of

power, identity and monumentality. Mihrab evolved as a functional necessity and
defmes the axis for qibla. The building elements of a mosque - dome, arch, turrets,
minaret, kiosk etc.- arc also conunonly found in different building types of Islamic
architecture (Fig. 5.7). Only mihrab -the element unique and exclusive for a mosque,
manifests the stroug axial quality of its space and defiues exceptional type of its
function.

These symbolic elements have become so much infused - generally in Muslim culture
and heritage and particularly in architecture - that they have become indispensable for
thc sake of identity, even if shariah and fundamental theme of au,terity opposes or
the technical innovations prove those as redundant. A mosque is readily identified if it
posse,ses all or some of the elements like a mihrab, a dome, arches, a minaret and
decorative patterns. Eveu the signage for a mosque includes some of those elements in
the composition (Fig 5.8). These symbols have become the popular graphic icons to
cxpress even the Muslim festivals, events etc. (Fig. 5.8).

--

Fig. 5.8The element,of a mo'que u;ed '" ,ymb,,1to "-"jlrc,onta m"'qu", M",lim f,,'tival,. evOnt,etO.

5.7.2.2 Decoration
Mosque architecture clearly shows its fascination towards ornamental calligraphy and
decorative patterns. Epigraphy from the holy Quran, inscription of historical
information etc. are common as subject of calligraphy. Moreover, the disposition of
calligraphy in bands may servc to articulate a larger decorative scheme.
 Design Approach 5-20

The decorative patterns usually incorporate the floral or vegetal motifs and geometric
patterns. These patterns are manifested in tiles, latticework or simply on the wall
surface with paints (Fig 5.9). The early Mamie mosques of Bangladesh show some
examples ofterracotta tiles with ornamental motifs (e.g., mosque in Section 3.4.15).

5.7.3 Criteria for Ornamentation

Islam mamfests the concept of austerity and simplicity in every sphere of life. In a
similar viewpoint, it does not encourage any superfluous clements. As described in
historical overview of Chapter Two, mosque architecture is influenced by many
cultures and ;ociety of different believes. Addition of ornamentation is one example
of such influence. Through profuse practice, it has become a part of mosque
architecture. As a matter of fact, ornamentation plays a role for an immediate
identification of a mosque. Considering all these issues, shariah has provided some
flexibility. The criteria for ornamentation are as follow [5.14, p. 15, 459 and 645]:

(a) For the sake beautification or identification of a mosque, ornamentation is allowed

for exterior facades.

(b) The interior facade of rear wall is also allowed for ornamentation.

(c) The interior facade of the front wall and mihrab is strictly prohibited for any
ornamentation as it may draw the attention and disrupt the concentration required
for perfonning salat.

(d) The floor and the lower portion of sidewalls are also lightly prohibited due to
reasons mentioned in preceding criteria.

(e) Criterion is not clearly speci fied for the case of interior fa~ade of sidewalls.

(f) The elements of ornamentation should not copy the figures of human being,
animals, birds etc. Jt implies strict prohibition.

5.8 Environment
The environmental issue of any building requires an elaborate discussion based on
theoretical and practical study and analysis, which is beyond the scope of this thesis.
Some generalized aspects arc considered for brief discussion just as an introduction to
this vast field. Aspects concerned to the design criteria are included in this Section
and some design standards are furnished in relevant section ofChaptcr Six.

A mosque is a basically devotional space, which demands a considerable level of

environmental comfort. Comfort, in general terms, may be defined as,

The sensation of comptete physical and mental well being. Thus defined, it is
only to a limited extent within the control of the de.<igner.The occupants'
biological, emotional and physical characteristics also come into play. Hence,
if a group of people ISsubjected to the same climate, the individual members
arc unlikely to be satisfied simuttanoously_The designer must aim to create
optiTllillthel1l1alcomfort for tho group as a whole, i.e. he Or she must provide
conditions under whIch the highest numbers of people in the group feel
comfortabte [5.23, p. 59J.

•
 Design Approach 5-21

5.8.1 Climatic Features of Bangladesh

Bangladesh lies between latitudes of 20.56rN and 26.633°N and betwecns
longitudes of 88.01rE and 92.683°E [5.2, search: Bangladesh]. According to the
classification by G A Atkinson, the climate of Bangladesh may be classified as warm-
humid tropical climate [5.21, pp. 23-26]. Meteorologically the climate of Bangladesh
i~ categorised into four distinct seasons - winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-
monsoon [5.25]. The winter is cool and dry, pre-monsoon is hot and dry; monsoon
and post-monsoon arc hot and wet. Temperature ranges from 10°c to 34°c throughout
the year. The monsoon i, the longest season, with hea'Y rains (from78lmm
tol499mm recorded in Dhaka) with average humidity above 80% and average
temperature 31°c [5.28, p. 15]. The diversified character of climate throws a
formidable challenge to the formidable challenge to the architects to design a building
comfortable for all seasons.

5.8.2 The Elements of Climate and Their Effects on Comfort

The major elements of climate are - Solar radiation, Long wavc heat loss through
radiation, Air temperature, Air pressure and velocity, Atmospheric humidity and
Condensation and precipitation [5.22, pp. 1-18J.

The environmental factors cause biophysical effects are - Air and mean radiant
temperatures, Physiological and sensory effects, Humidity, Air velocity, clothing,
Solar radiation and Metabolic heat production [5.22, pp. 53-67J. The thermal cffects
of building materials, roof types and ceiling heights, indoor wetness, orientation,
openings and shadings devices, ventilation etc, play significant role for environmental
comfort.

The mosque, like any other building types, requires meticulous analysis and
considerations on each elements or aspects. Moreover, certain features unique and
significant for a mosque should be taken care of, which are just being pointed out in
the following section.

5.8.3 Significant Features of a Mosque for Climatic Consideration

(a) Clarity and transparency of space is a characteristic feature of a mosque. The qibla
wall (approximately towards west for Bangladesh, see Table 6.1 for exact qihla)
demands opacity, which also conforms to the climatic consideration for
ventilation and lighting, total openness and transparency may be allowed for other
walls, especially the south and north one, to facilitate the most desired wind flow
, in summer from the south-east direction.

(b) By nature of function, a mosque is an assembly place. A considerable amount of

anthropogenic heat, moisture, carbon dioxide gas, malodour and even germs may
accumulate resulting discomfort and health hazards. So, the architect should
design for proper ventilation and air-change.

(c) The general formula used to deduce the amount of heat exchange between the
body and environment is, Q = M "= R "= C - E

Where. Q is the change in heat content of the body, M is the metabolic rate and
the R, C and E are respectively the radiative, convective and evaporative heat
 Design Approach 5-22

exchange [5.22, p. 20]. There are personal (temperature and vapour pressure of
skin which depends on activity and clothing) and environmental (temperature,
velocity and vapour pressure of air, mean radiant tempenlture) variables to affect
those factors. There is no established data for the metabolic rate for particular type
of activities performed in a mosque. It might be assumed from the available data
established experimentally for similar type of activities. On that context, the
metabolic rate for sa/al (assuming to be similar to 'Filing, standing' in can be
considered as 100 W/mI. The average snnace area of an adult is arOlmd 1.8 ml
[5.24, p_60]. Clothing offers thermal insulation against environment. This thermal
insulation can be expressed in term of mZKlW or 'clo'. I elo is equal to 0.155
m2KiW. In a mosque of Bangladesh, one musalli usually wears clothing
corresponding roughly to 0.5 clo in summer and 1.0 clo in winter. For other
seasons of moderate temperature, the figures may range in between.

(d) Venti13tioncan be categorised in three types according to its objectives to serve: a)

Health ventilation, b) Thermal comfort ventilation and c) Ventilation for structural
cooling [5.22, pp. 230-248]. The relative importance of each of these functions
depends on the elimatic conditIons prevailing in different seasons and regions.
The ventilation design should satisfYall the requirements for different seasons for
that particular region. For the activity typc in mosque (we may consider it to be
almost similar to sedentary activity), the volume of fresh air requirement is 12 m'
Ih per person for a carbon dioxide concentration of 0.2% (outdoor air contains an
average of 0.03 - 0.04%) [5.22, pp. 231-233]. One of the aspects of health
ventilation - elimination of disagreeable odour generated by sweating and other
physiological phenomenon of the musallies lG_requires greater air supply than
would be indicated by the oxygen and carbon dioxide level. Many countries have
established minimum requirements for permanent ventilation rates of different
type of spaces [5.22, p. 238, Table 13.1J.Unfortunately there is no such data for a
mosque. If we assume a mosqlle space as similar to a 'Living room' by nature of
activity and take the average of different countries, the required minimum
ventilation rate for a mosque ofBangladesb can be proposed as I air changelhour.

(e) Tn warm-humid condition of Bangladesh, the main function of ventilation is to

provide thermal comfort through air motion past the body, sufficient to provide
adequate cooling and rapid sweat evaporation. Volumetric airflow is not sllitable
criterion llnder such condition and rtX]uirementsshould be expres~ed in terms of
air velocity within the occupied area. Provision should be made to obtain an air
velocity of up to 2 mlscc [5.22, p. 249]'

(f) The size of windows has considerable influence for air velocity within a mosque,
since it can be easily cross ventilated. Experiment shows that when windows are
provided in opposite walls (north and south for our local context), opening size for
both inlet and outlet equals to the total width of the wall, direction of wind is
oblique to the wal1- the average and maximum air velocities are re~pective1y42%
and 94% of outdoor airvclocity [5.22, p. 266, Table 15.4]. The usual direction of
airflow is from southeast during the most critical seasons like summer and
monsoon. This direction coincidentally fulfils the condition of required oblique
direction to get the best air velocity with in a mosque.
 Design Approach 5-23

(g) There are some thumb rules for the opening size in percentage to the floor area
being ventilated. Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) suggests:

(i) For a space being ventilated directly to the outdoors, the opening size should be
4% of the floor area to be ventilated [5.8, p. 8-68].

(ii) For space being ventilated through an adjoining room, the opening size should
be 8% of the floor area to be ventilated, but not less than 2.33 ml [5.8, p. 8-
68].

(h) Building Rcscarch Establishment (BRE), UK, suggests the opening size of
operable window should be 5% of the floor area to bc vcntilatcd along with a
minimum 4,000 mnl size of trickle window [5.24, p. 174].

5.8.4 Lighting
Good lighting design is inseparable from good architectural design and should be
considered from the earliest stages of the design process. Lighting can be classificd in
w'o broad categories:

(a) Day lighting

(b) Artificial lighting

The usc of natural daylight can bring signiflcant advantages in cost savings; reducing
cooling loads created by artificial lighting and consequent atmospheric pollution as
well as contributing to a healthier living and working cnvironment [5.24, p.115].

5,8.4,1 Da~' lighting

For a particular point inside a mosque, light may reach it from thc following ways
[5.21, p.141]:

(a) Diffused or 'skylight', through a window or opening.

(b) 'Externally reflected light' (by the ground or other building), through the same
windows.

(c) 'Internally reflected light' from walls, ceiling or other internal surfaces.

, (d) 'Direct sunlight', along a straight path from the sun, through a window to the given
point.

Climatic conditions will greatly influence both the total quantity of light and the
relative magnitude of above components. In warm-humid climate, as for the case of
Bangladesh, a mosque may have large openings (0 ensure cross-ventilation and air
movement, with wide overhanging eaves or other shading devices. The sky is bright,
could provide sufficient light, but its high luminance may cause glare. The ~ky
lwninance is much less near the horizon than at higher altitude angles; a view of sky
up to about 15° from the horizon may be permissible [5.21, p. 145].
 De,<ignApproach 5-24

The prevailing features establishes some requirement for the design of shading
devices as summarised bellow:

(a) Permit view of sky and ground near the horizon only, within about 010150(up and
dO\\TI).

(b) Exclude view of bright ground and sunlit blade or louver surfaces.

(c) Daylight is to be reflected from ground and blades up the ceiling, which itself
should be of a light colour.

A mosque can be lit for a standard of 'casual seeing' as 100 lux [5.21, p. 139], which
is suitable for salat, Bayan etc. But for 'reading' any theological book, the requirement
increases to 400 lux [5.21, p. 139].

5.8.4.2 Artificial lighting

In moderate climates it is practically impossible to provide adequate daylight (DF =
2%) in side-lit rooms, to a depth greater than three times the window head height,
above the working plane. As mosques are workable, for general purpose, in low-lit
(100 lux) environment and it is possible to have relatively grealer window height
above ground (working plane of a mosque), the artificial light is not usually required
to supplement the daylight during the average-bright day time.

For dawn, dusk and night- artificial light is required in a mosque. For general rituals
(salat, Bayan etc,) a low-level of illumination may suffice, while for reading from
books may require some extra light (arrange particularly for that 'amal). For any
unavoidable circumstances, to perform salat in darknei>s is acceptable [5.1, p. 124]. In
general condition, it is a surmah 10 arrange light in a mosque, but not more than the
required intensity [5.12, p. 48] and to a lower intensity for the visibility of the place of
sijdan. It is not allowed to lit the mosque for one-third of the night from the
expenditure of the mosque and if some one requires for any purpose, should arrange
from one's own expenditure [5.12, p. 48].

Energy saving lighting units may be considered for use if il is proved to be cost-
effective in terms of life-eyele-costing. Moreover, solar energy might be used for
lighting and other electrical equipment, if that is found to be technically and
economically viable.

5.8.5 Acoustics
Acoustics, the science of sound, can be broadly divided into two major areas [5.21, p.
171]:

(a) The handling of 'wanted sound', i.e., creating the most favourable conditions for
listening to a sound we want to hear

(b) The handling of'unwanted sound', i.e., the control of noise.

These areas require elaborate study and specialised analysis of various aspects to
deduce the design guidelines for a particular project, which was beyond the scope of
 Design Approach 5-25

this thesis. Some generalised suggestions for a mosque are briefly furnished in the
following sections.

5.8.5.1 Suggestions for Handling the Wanted Sound in a Mosque

(a) The voice of imam. while reciling from the Holy
during salol, should reach each musalli. An echo
acceptahle for this purpose, as it may add a divine
rehgious discussion or khulbo, no echo is desirable,
audible and intelligible.
Quran or uttering the takhir
of small magnitude might be
flavour to the verses. But for
as every syllable of should be

(b) As a general thumb rule, to avoid echo in a mosque, walls or other hard surface of
the mosque interior, especially that opposite to imam (eastern surface) while he
delivers khulha or any religious speech, should not be more than 17 m apart19.

(c) For any unavoidable circumstances, if the distance of the walls goes beyond the
limit of 17 m, one should take other measures to get rid of the echo effect (say,
using sound absorbing materials, placing the surfaces non parallel to each other,
making the surfaces rough or undulated at reasonable magnitude etc.).

(d) Domes are very common in mosques. It may create acoustical problem by
con~erging sound waves to a particular point resulting a high sound level irritating
a few musalli. Simultaneously, others, away from that particular point, will be
deprived from required sound level. The worst situation will occur due to multiple
echo effect, if the centre of curvature of the dome isjust on the ground.

(e) The centre of curvature of a dome should be,

(i) above the average human height or

(ii) beyond the floor level.

In lhe first case, the sound waves will disperse after converging at a point and
create almost no problem. In the second case, the sound waves will not converge
at a point; rather those will be dispersed aner reflection from the ground.

(I) It is advantageous acoustically, if the foremost part of mihrab is, in plan, a part of
a circle or a hyperbola. In this ca~e, the vertical surface of the curved mihrab may
work as a sound reflector. A beUer result might be derived if the Imam stands at
the centre (or epicentre) of the curvature or within the length of the radius. The
surface of the mihrab may be of hard and smooth materials to facilitate maximum
ref1eetion of sound, so that the musallies can be benefited acoustically.

5.8.5.1 Suggesllons for Handling the Unwanted Sound or Noise in a Mosque

(a) As a space for devotion and concentration, a mOi>queshould be saved from noise.
Since the religious teaching prohibits making noise inside 1Imosque [5.1, p. 231;
5.12, pp. 8-9J, the main task remains to design against external noise.

I (b) Phenomenally, there is a conflict betwccn noise control and ventilation in the
warm-humid tropical climate. Here, large openings arc desired for ventilation,
 •
Design Appmach 5-26

which again may invite undesired noise from outside. So, the architect has 10
check and balance the merits and demerit, for a design proposal of optimum
enlciency.

(0) Up to 65 dBA of noise level may create annoyance, hut its result is only
psychological (nervous effects), Above this level have physiological effects, from
fatigue to permanent hearing impairment. The noise level of a mosque interior
space should be kept within 65 dBA or as lower as possible than that

(d) Against external noise, the means of protection available to the designer are:
(i) keeping the building away from the noise source,
(ii) avoiding 70nes of directional noise, screening,
(iii) using non noise-sensitive parts of the building as barriers,
(iv) positioning the openings awsy from the noise source,
(v) noise in,ulating the building envelope etc.

5.9 Conclusion
The design approach, spatial analysis of function, criteria for designing different
functional spaces, building components etc. arc elaborately discussed in this chapter
with reference to theology and practice_

To determine the configuration and size of the main salat space, there is little scope to
be notional. Theological guidelines define this configuration to be a rectangular one,
which i, a re,ult of certain features like strait qatar, equal length of qatars. For any
unavoidable circumstances, frontal qatar may be greater than the rear ones, but not
the vice versa.

The change in levels in sa/at spaces should be done carefully, so that it does not
develop the phenomenon of 'discontinuity' according to the parameters ofshariah. In
the rcspective chapter, some examples from design approach show the possible
mistakes and the ways to avoid it.

Size, number and allocation of the entry, stairs and other circulation spaces should be
given extra attention to avoid congestion especially for the large congregations. It is a
common problem particularly in the mosque with huge capacity and those happened
to expand vertically in several floors.

For wazu facility, popular arrangement is done from running water through pipelines
particularly in urban areas, which causes severe wastage compared to the actual water
required. Proposition is made to get rid of this wastage, as it is vehemently opposed
by Islam. ]n the Holy Quran, one who waste, is tenned as the brother of Shilitan (the
devil) [5.9, 5.10; Surah Ban; !srili/, Ayah 27J.

Safekeeping of shoes apparently may seem to be a simple matter, but practically it

creates a lot of difficulties. Some propositions are made to guide the architects to
solve the problem. Similarly, provision should me made for safekeeping of umbrella
or other belongings.

One should follow the principles of austerity for selection of building materials and
finishes. Every item should be analysed in terms of lifc-cyele-costing. For

I,
 Design Approach 5-27

ornamentation, one should follow the codes set by Islam. It is conditionally allowcd to
make some ornamentation on the exterior f[i\'ade and interior fa<;:adeof back wall. But
it is forbidden on the interior fa<;:adcof west wall, mihrab, floor and the lower portion
of sidewalls.

References
[5.1} Thanuvi, Maolana Ashraf Ali, (translatIOn: Faridpuri, Maolana Sham,ul Haque),
Behesht, Jeor, Vol. I, Emdadia Library, Dhaka, 1990.
[5.2] Encyc1opa:d'a Britanmca, Multimcdia Edition, EncycJop",dia Britannica, Inc., UK,
Computer CD version 199R.
[5,3] Abu H. Imamuddin, Shamim Ara Has,an, Deba,hish Sharkar, Community Mosque: A
Symbol of Society, Proce<:dingsof the 2nd Regional Seminar of The Aga Khan Award
for Architecture, Dhaka, 19th-22nd December 1985.
[5.4] M. A. Muktadir, M. Habibur Rahman, Mosque of Dacca: An Architectural
!nlwdudioll, presented in the International Exhibition on Islamic Civilization, Kuala
Lumpnr, Malay,ia, 1971.
[5,5] H. A. R. Gibb "nd J. H. KLamer" Shorter Encyclopaedia of Islam, E.J. Brill, Leiden,
Netherlands, 1961.
[5.6] Cre,well, K. A. C. I Allan, J. W., A Short Account of Early Muslim Architecture,
Aldershot,1989.
[5.7] J. M. Bloom, Creswell and the origIns of the minaret, in Maqam"" Vol. VJJJ,pp. 55-
5R,1991.
[5.8} Bangladesh Narional Building Code, Housing and Bllliding Research Institute &
Bangladesh Standard, and Testing Institntion, Dhaka, 1993
[5.9] The Alim For Windows, Shahid N. Shah, Compnter CD Version, Relea"" 4.5, ISL
Sofiv;'areCorporation, USA, 1996.
[5.10] AI-Qur'anul Karim, Computer CD, Version 6.31, Sakhr Software, 1996.
[5.11] Zakariya, Shaikhul Hadith M"ulan" M"hanunad, Faza'il-E-A'maal, (Engli,h
translation by Arshad, Abdnl Rashid,), Sh. Muhammad Ashraf, Lahore, Pakistan.
[5.12J Thanuvi, M"olan" Ashraf Ali, (translation in to Bengali: Akbar, Maolana AI,), 'Adabul
Masajid; Ashrafia Lihrary, Dhaka, 1992.
[5.13] Hai, Dr. Muhammad Abdnl, (translation 10 Bengal!: Khan, Maolana Muhinddin),
Usua-i-RosuJay Karim (S), Madiana Publi~ations, Dhaka, 1990,
[5.14] Shami, Allama Mnhammad Ameen, Falawa-i-Shami (or Raddul Muhlar), Vol. I; H M
Sated Co.; Karachi, Pilistan.
[5.15] Ahmed, Mnfti Rashid; Ahsanul Faluwa,VoJ. 6, Jakariya Book Depot, Deobandh, UP,
India.
[5.16] Joseph De Chiara and John Hancock Callender (editors), Time-Saver Standards for
Building Types, 2nd Edition, McGraw-Hill Book Co. Singapore, 1987.
[5.17] Dr. Tafazzal Hossain, Dr. Mohiuddin Molla, NilufllI Akhtar and Dr. M. Humayun
Khan, Ueheha Maddhyamie Padarrha Biggan -lSi Pari (in Bengali, Higher Secondary
Phy~ic,-Ist Part); Bangladesh !:lookCorporation Ltd.; Dhaka, 1998.
[5.18] Hillenbrand, Robert; IslamIC architecture: FornI, Funelion and Meaning; Edinburgh
University Press, UK, 1994.
[5.19] Graber, Oleg; Architecture and Art; The Oeniu, of Arab Civilization _ Source of
Renaissance; 2""Edition; Eurabia (Publishing) Ltd.; UK; 1983.
[5.20] Abas, Syed Jan and Salman, Amer Shaker; Symmelries of IslamIc Geometric Pa/:lerns;
World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd,; UK, 1995.
[5.21] Kocnigsbcrger, O. H, and others; Manual of Tropical Housing alld Building -Pari One;
Climatic Design: ].{lngmanGroup Limited, UK; 1973,
[5.22] Givoni, 8.; Man, Climate and Architeerure; Elsevier Publishing Company Limited,
UK; 1969.
 Design Approach 5-28

[5.23] Goulding, John R. and others; Energy in ArchileclUre _ 17le European Passive Solar
Handbook; Commission of the European Communities; B. T. Batsford Limited, UK;
1986.
[5.24] BRE Housing Design Handbook - Energy and Internal Layout; Building Re.learch
Establishment; UK, i993.
[5.25] Ho'Sain, M. E. and Nooruddm, M,; Some aspecls of Urban Climates of Dhaka City;
Internationai Technical Conference on Trop'cal Urban Climates; Dhaka, 1993,
[5,26] Nizam, Maolana Shaikh, Falawa-i-Alamgiri, Vol. I, 2"" Ed.,Maktaba-i-Majcdlya,
Pakistan, 1983.
[5,27] Ushas, SoJaiman Ibn Abu Daud Shijistani; Abu Daud Sharif, Vol. 1, Maktaba-i-
Ashrafiya. UP, India.
[5.28] Ahmed, Khandaker Shabbir; Approaches To The Bioclimatic Urban De,<ign For The
Tropic,< With Special Reference To Dhaka, Bangladesh; unpubiished PhD thesis,
J Environment and Energy Studies Programme; Architecture Association Schooi of
Architecture, UK; 1995.
[5.29] Brown, Percy, fndian Architecture (Islam,c Period), D. B. Tamporevaia Sons & Co.
Pvl. Ltd., 1956.
[5.30] Groover, Salish, The Architecture of India, Islamic (727 _ /707 A.D.), Vikash
Publishing House Pvt. Ltd., Delhi, India, 1981.
[5.31J Glimpses of Ihe Mosques of Bangladesh; Department of Film and Publicalions,
Mimstry of Infonnalion, Government of People'. Republic of Bangladesh; Dhaka;
1989.
[5,32] Ahmed, Abu Sayed Mostaque, The Cholo Sona Mo,<que in Gaur. An Example of Early
Islamic Archileclure of Bengal, Inslitute of Architeclurnl Hi,tory, University of
Karlsruhe, Germany, I997.

The mosque no. I, 8, and lOin the field study (C~apter Three) has .hops and warehouse; mosque
00.3 has shops and residential units TL'I1tOO
for iinanoiat support to the mosques,

, Elaborate diSCllssionis dQT1cin Section 4,4 of Chapter Four and a list of qlbla duection from
dlffcrenl zilas of Bangladesh i, furnished in Table 6, J m Chapter Six.

Unl"" for vcry c'ccptional cireumslances, none should enter a mosque witbout w= [5.1, p, 232].
4 Shoes usually accumutate filth and dirt, whleh " con,itkred a, ]1TOfane.

Though some oue can wea, clean ,ocks made of fabrie, halal animal leather etc.

• Internalional l,hibition On Islamic Clvilizarion held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, November 1971
[SA].

, Women ,hould perform lhcir ,mlal individually nol injama'at, even they gather in a place for any
purpose [5,1, p. I t6]. tf il happen, 10perform .mlar (fary,najl orsllnnai) 10jama 'atwlth husband or
any male of mahram category (see Glossary ofTenn" Awendicc< A.I and 5.1, 2"" part,]1. 5), the
women (ot woman) wiD stand in a separate qalar [5,1, p. t 16]'

, E,g., main ,afm space can not be used for 2"djamaat (jamaal-j. ,'ama) [5.1, W. 140-t44].

, Some sunnah applies fot this main salal space (e.g., ,ecite the dua.j.ma.,nanah to enler or CX;1fTOm
thi, ,pace) [5.1, pp. 145.150J.

I. A numhcr OflwOmu,mili, i, lhc minimum requirement 10form a qalar. [5.t, p. 140].

" Large pond or lake.

II SUTah6 At_An'am,Ruku t7, Ayah t4 t , [5.9 & 5.10]. ,

 Design Approach 5-29

1\ A lradinonal small pitcher like pol with a slender spout (named as badrla In. Bengali) is commonly
us.d,

L4 Detall dlscu"ion on qibla directIon is inciLIdcd in Section 4.4 and Tahle 6.t ,how, the eomplelo li,t
for the qibla direclion. derived fOTl~e difTe'tCn!zilas of Banglade,h,

" Dry piece of earth, lOilel paper and ol~CTlypeS of material, aro seleoled by shariah [5.1. p. 73].

" Ab>;nrbrnt malerial. for purifle"tion from excreta; the ""t for it,

17 It includc, JifTe'tCnt type< of '~""', ""ndals, flip-flop, ele.

'" It is a ,enou, ,in to cross through the lrontal area of ,omeone In.sa/at, A musalii can erect one ,nck
or silIlll., element. at lea,t 0,46 m high and one-linger thick. III Iront of him. It 18not forbidden to
cross one m sa/at beyond that stick or ,im,lar element [5.1, p, 123].

J9 Re-in forced cemeut Concreto, mveuted in 1867 [5,2].

" T~. author. as an arc~it""t, designed" mosque in T~ailand with a span 01'21.2 m.

" Por example, structural column i, placed iu the mid-pom!.

" Secal,0"clion5.3.3,I.

" 11mHi,ham. p. 348. Wustcnfclci, Medina, p, 75 [5,5. p. 340].

" See al,o Section 5.4.2.

" The qatar of frontal part ofjamaat ,hould not he ,horter t~an that of rear part [5.1, pp. 143_144 J-

" It i, waj,b for the musallies to be attentive and try to listen the khulba [5.1. p. 201].

" Religions discussion.

" The speed of sonnd i, about 3n m per ,econd at NTP [5.17, p, 532]. Bnt for increa,. of
l.mporature lhe v.loelt)' also iucre.ses considerably. For example. at )We, it i, 349 (, m. For
general-purpose calculation it i, con,idered to be 340°C l5.21. p. 173]. The efTcet of sound persi<l'
m human brain fOT0.1 .econd. We cannot nobce any Td1celcd "mod ifrcce~ved wilhin 0.1 ,,"cond
from 11, generauon. For" reflection, the ,ound !ravel> (for lwo ,,"y.) 34 m in O.t ,coood. The one
way or the distance ofl~e refleclor from l~e source i, 17 m. So, ifany refleclor is wilhin 17 m, there
i, no scope for peTceptible echo.

" For example. in a 'p""e (,"y •• toile!), WhCT"no su,pended equipment (like a eelling fan) i, used,
the value for ',' 18zero. the clearance 'j' may reduce to 0.1 m. and only standing height may be taken
for 'k' (,ee formula 5). For a 'pace, where the people remain in sitting position for mo,t of the time
(say. an office for de,k job). the vol"e for 'f ,mght be taken a, 0.435 m.

" As an assembly place, a mosque may accumulate disagreeable odour, which causes auffering, to t~e
musall",~ and (accordmg the Hadith) the rna/aiko. ProvislOn ,hould be made for elimination
malodour "od making the .nvlronment fragrant [5.12. pp. 29-3i; 5.i. p. 232].

,"
Figure 5-1
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t

88 •
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II I 1 I I I I I Ii •• C,,1umD widlh
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x" Width
~t Y" Lmglh
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,I
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Fig. 5.6 Rcllllionship of length, width lind height of mosque proper. "••
 Figure S.X '

.,
.' raj Moho!, AplI

KaIrulphuli fmili7.er Comr=r LimilCd (KAFCO)Jaml Mosque, Q,i!lllgong

Ahsan Monzil, Dhobl Tomb of Kh;ln lallan (R), Bagerlllll

Fit""' 5,1 The building cl."",nts of. mosque ';'""diiiiC, arcli; lurrell, miMn'1, k'(JIk CIt,- an: .TilO colllJlK>nly
,found in dirreml1 building types. Only m;~rQb, lbe •.I<m<nl unique
:quality of its ~ aDd defines c:<ceptiOllllIl)'pe of il'" f~rw;tiOll.
f.,... mosque, manif •• t5 lbe ~ lIJ<lal
__
 Figurt: j.XI

2. T=- .nd ",lief "..,rt< on exterior ",..u,

(B~gba Mosque. Raj~lmhi;5.) I. pp. 16-17)

. itil!illi i~itilill
b_
• window.
•). P8ttern In scrccn (JI1/i) ,,"Oft.for
~]II~i
iliiilil
~,O>""''''.,yw""~w,.;.~,,,~,,":::
•. GeomctriI: p:Iltom in wi""",,'
grill.
[a. Adlno MMqU<. Hamu Pandu. b. Qlnhumbo. [Rahhib:lnr RO:ldM""'I"". Dhda; ••••Chapt••
mMQIIC'.Rojshfthi; 5.)2, p. 1M] -J

-..-.... "
~ .••.•..
•5.•. •
Wall lI'ealmCnt ••.llh JI'IllC'lmof brick moulding, 6. Example:!;of Arabic alllpBphy.
[BabIIAd:tm mosque. M"""'lpttj; 0apIer Tb=1. [S.31, p. 51
b. Sw as omzmmllllllKlllf in tbc ""rfDee lJ'ea1mnIl,
[Star MlI5Cpe. Dhal<B; 5.) I. p. 2S]

11lgurc.5.9 Ex~ple~ ofdilfemll types of omamenlnl elements in'~ques:

, '."".•...
",,~
"

'-'-
•
 "

, I
,."
Chapter SIX
Design Standards
•
 Design Standards 6-1

Chapter SIX: Design Standards

6.1 Introdudion
This chapter is intended to iormulate design standards for a mosque, basing on the
findings and propositions in preceding chapters, especially those in Chapter Five. The
data is categorized in three qualitative standards _ 'minimum', 'good' and 'excellent'.
These standards are derhed in a similar manner as those furnished in the religiow,
btlilding section of Time-Saver Standards for Building Types [6.3, p. 573]. Like
design standards for any other building, the standards for a mosque possess certain
range for adaptability. The architect should carefully choose the appropriate standards
and, il"required, make neees,ary adaptation or adjustment for a particular project.

All data or matrix furni,hed in this chapter is dependent on the anthropomctry,

re,Ollrces, climate, beha~ioural pattern etc, of our local context. The environmental
issues, like ventilation, lighting, acoustics etc. being another vast realm, arc
,electively kept beyond the scope of elaborate discussion. Only some common
fealtlres or examples from that field are presented, without detail,;, in Chapter Five
and in some relevant places.

Anthropometric data (body dimension etc.) ol"Banglade,hi people are collected from
authentic ,urvey findings and pnlctieal study by the author. In ergonomic study,
practical work is conducted with standard modds to derive the space requirements,
service requirement, furnitllre dimcnsions etc.

As .MKS system is the accepted official measuring unit of !he state, it is followed al
through to mention any unit. Anglcs are sho1Nllin decimal degrees and assumed to be
dock-wise positivc.

6.2 Determination of Capacity of a Mosque

As a matter of fact, most of the mo,ques of Bangladesh S13rt with a tempomry
structure of an assumed capacity. Expansion of space with the increasing requirement
is a common phenomenon. 1n a certain stage of development, the community attempts
for a permanent structure and engages someone (in few cases an architect), for a
design proposal.

The community can provide an outline for determining the capacity from practical
experience. But for the case of a mosque gomg to be constructed at once in the
community without any precedence of reqtlired capacity, the architect may need to
help the organi7:ers to derive it. The following is an approximate method for assuming
the capacity of a residential mosque.
 DesIgn Standards 6-2

6.2.1 Approximate Method for Dclcrmination Capacity

If the total populationl of the catchment of a mosque is P"",I,the Muslim population
can be derived as',
P musl,m= P"'tal X 0.81':3 "------------------------------"--------------- (\)

Muslim male population should be approximatel/,

P m.l, = P",usll",X 106/206 = P mooi"" X 0.515. ------------------------ (2)

Salat is fwj for male at the age of tcn ycars [6.2, p. 89]. So, the total number of
Muslims entitled for salal is approximately",
P "I" = Pm,l, X 0.7185. ------------------------------------------------- (3)

This number of pcoplc should perform the salal in jama'at in mosque!, but
unfortunately a small traction of it perfoIDlsdaily five times salat. though it increases
in salat of./umu'a'.

Whether the main salat space of a mosque should have capacity for the salat of
Jumu'a or for the one of the daily five lime's sa/at which has maximum musalli - is a
decision dependent on availability ofspacc, funding capacity for construction cost and
desire of the community. tf the capacity of the main salat space is determined from
the ~ongregation size of salat of ./umu'a, the space will be utilised at its full capacity
only once in a wcck for about 30 to 45 minutes, which is only 0.3 to 0045% of total
time of a week. Thus, the space remain, under-utilised and it should be questioned
whether il is justified or not to spcnd for the capacity of Jumu'a.

}"rom field study, it is observed that the congregation be~omes 1argcr in size for a
particular daily salat. depending on the type of neighbourhood. The largcst daily
congregation usually occurs for Maghrib in re,idential area, for Juhr in office area
(workmg days) and for Maghrib in markct places (see Appendices, Ao4 and Chapter
Three). So, one can consider the capacity of main salat space as the number of
mwwllies in Maghrib for residential area and market place and that of Juhr for office
areas. •

The percentage of musallies (out oflhe total entitlcd for salat, Psal")vatic, eommnnity
to community. A thorough srndy on North-Shahjahanpur and South Khilgaon Jhccl
Mosquc (see Chapter Three for dctails) shows that, only 12% of musallies in average)
perform the salat of Maghrih. For an approximate calculation, one can take this
percentage (12%) as the desired capacity for the main salal hall in a community
mosque. Additional number 01'musallies in salat of Jumu'a (it is about 57% of the
Iotal entitled for salat for the above-mentioned mosque) can be accommodatcd in
vcranda aml lor in the sahn or even ill the main sa/at spacc, depending on the policy
of the community and the architect.

Example: Determination of Capacity

u::t's assume that a mosque has a neighbourhood population of 10,000 (P"".I). To
derive the capacity of the main ,m/a/ space for,

(a) sa/at of Maghrib and

(b) additional sa/at space for sa/at of '/lImu'a.
 Design Standards 6-3

Assuming, the attendam in Maghrib is 12% and in Jumu'a is 60% of the male entitled
for sa/at (P"",).

Givcn, P"'"I= 10,000

P",u,lim= P"''''i X 0.883 = 10,000 X 0.883 = 8,330 [from 1]
P""le= Pm",I;mX 0.515 = 4,290 (rounded) [from 2J
P"l" = P",u,IJm X 0.7185 = 3,082 (roundcd) [from 3]

(a) Capacity for sa/at of Maghrib, P""glmt>= P"I" X 0.12 = 370 (rounded)
Capacity for salat of Jumu'a. Pjumu.= P"'i" X0,60 = 1,849 (rounded)
(b) Thc additional capacity required lor .!ulIJu'a = 1849 - 370 = 1,479.
So, the main salat space may have a capacity of370 musaUi",s and the additional sala/
space may havc that of 1,479 musa/lics.

6.3 Qibla Directions for Bangladesh

Flaboratc discussion on qib/a is includcd in Chapter Four (Section 4.4) 3nd also in
Chapter Fivc. Table 6.1 shows the qibla directions and the corresponding latitude and
longitude of 64 zilas of Bangladesh. Figure 6.1 presents the line, those pass through
ditTerent places in Bangladesh of similar angular value (in decimal degree) for gibla
directions. These data will be helpful to determine the qibla from different zilas of
Bangladesh.

6.4 Space Standards

Sp3ee st3ndards are dcrived from a rational consideration of human need - both
quantitative and qualitative. As a quantitative component, human body dimension in
terms of anthropometries data is required to form a basis for the study of ergonomies\
which again helps to dcrive the space standards. The sequence of approach to derive
space standards might be shown as,

The data from anthropometric stndy is analysed in statistical methods to derive mC3n,
standard deviation etc. [6.6, pp. 205-220; 6.7, pp. 33-34, 39, 689].

The qualitative typology of space standards arc based on the statistical categories as,
mean = 'Least'Minimum' (which is expected to include 50% of the popuI3tion), +2Sd
= 'Good/Optimum' (which is expected to include 97.72% of the population) and +3Sd
= 'ExcellentiMaximum' (which is expected to include 99.87 % of the population) (see
Fig. 6.2) [6.7, pp. 100-105,688-689].

6.4.1 Anthropometric Dimensions and Ergonomic Study

,
Different published sources have furnished anthropometric data based on the
population of various regions of the world, which has a variation with that of
Bang13desh '". So, those anthropometric data cannot be directly used for ergonomic
\
•
study to derive space standards in the context of Bangladesh. On health issues, 3
 --
research was conducted with a sample size of 4252 males of age
suburban population in Bangladesh, where from the adult male
Design Standards 6-4

15 years and older in

height (H) is derived
[6.4, pp. 149-155] and applied as a ba~i~ for the anthropometric study for this thesis.
Anthropometric duta in terms of body dimensions of an adult Bangladeshi male is
shown in Fig. 6.2.

Statistical analysis identifies the model heights for different statistical categories (sec
notes of Fig. 6.2). Ergonomic sludy is conducted on experimental bm;is with the help
of model mus"lIies of different categones to derive the space standards for different
functions.

6.4.2 Space for Salat

Ergonomic study is conducted for different postures of salar and it is found that
maximum space is required in the posrnre for sijdah or 'prostration'. The 'feet' remain
upright at this position and it takes some more space at 'standing' position. So, the net
space required for sa/at can be derived from the combination of two positions. Fig.
6.3 shows the ,pace requirement for sa/at ofa male musafli.

Female ""LlGllies are encouraged to perform their salat within their household (see
Section 5.3.3 of Chapter Five). The average space requirement for salat of female is
furnished below, so that some one can allocate a plaec in onc's respective home.

Net area; 0.83 m (long) x 0.78 m (wide), Gross area: 1.00 m (long) x 0.95 m (wide).

6.43 Space for Silting

For religioi.ls discussion, the desired way of sitting is in the posture one sits at the end
of salat (Fig.6.4, with dimension 'c' and 'd'). Due to fatigue or difficulty, one can
change his posture at any easy way. But should not stretch his legs toward qib/a, as it
is prohibitcd in shariah.

Study shows that the relatively relaxed posture shown in Fig. 6,4 (with dimension 'a'
and 'b') is relatively common for sitting easily for a long period. It requires the
maximum space compared to other postures. So, to determine the capacity for sitting
discus~ion of a mosque, the dimen~ions of this posture should he takcn into
consideration, a~ it will suffice for other postures.

, 6.4.4 Space for Wazu

r There are different types of wazu facility. [n rural areas, ponds with or without
permanent steps are used for wazu. This simple arrangement has achieved certain
dcgree of functionality in long course of vernacular architecture, One point may be
kept in mind that the final step should bc wide cnough to perform W(lZU in squatting
position. This width oftlle [mal step may he suggested as:

Minimum = 50 em, Good = 75 cm and Excellent = 100 em

Standard, for the wGZU facility with supplied water through pipe and taps are shown in
the Fig. 6.5.
 lktlgtl Standards 6-5
.. 6.4.5 Spate ond UnIts for Toilet Foelllt~.
Toilet facility requires wme e:\trn space to facilitate the function of kulukh (sec
Chapter Fi\'e, Section .5.3.4.2 for details). Dato 011 spaces required for toi1ct is
provided in Table 6.2. Number of units required for ••••0.:" and toilet is furnished in I
Table 6.3.
.
Nrt! ace m Ci~ulotion m Gro~~ Sl'DCC m

Minimum
Uriaal
0.79
Ln''llto
I.JO ,
Urinal L/I\'llto
0.5
Urianl
1.79
Lovato
2.8
Good • 0.91 1.93 0.5 2 2.41 3.93
Exccl1cnl 0.04 23' 2 2.5 13.64 4.81
<1 TobIe 6.2 Space for toi1ct facility per unit.

Rttid<nt,.l CommCft'iol.1 Office Commc~i"l-2 Mm_

I Wazu r..:~~~
i;"'i;i ~~:\l
w~ w~
~~~~:?
;~;;~ ...~"'"
~~:;:\\
, , O.
unill ~~,::;1
unit un,t
02 ,
~" ~" 2.2
"2S 5.'
2
~~~hi' untt
U
Minimum
Good
F.Jl<X'llcnt 5
• 0.'
0.' M
03 "20" 2.2 ,.5
D
20 • 2.52
2
Table 6.3 Rcquired toilet units per 100 musllllics for different neighbourhoods.

Notes:
1. The!ltf\'i«...., pollem dill'en with the type< of neighbourhood (_ o,ajllCf TIl""" OIIptcr Five
and Appcn<!i= A.4). Service mjIIirm><n1>""' <krl,'rd from the:obocn'lltiom in Cll'le<tndy.
2. ObKr\"tioM Ihow t""~ the """ice \o:Idbeo:omc!crilical for particular .0101time dq'oendingon \be
lICighl:>ouThoo:>d
tyt>C.For example. the:mlOl of M"l:hrih i! critical for rnidcntial neighbourhood '"""
!he .,,101of hh. i. critical Faroll'"" uc.1'.
J. [)uring pick.hour of the mosI criTical.ohu ti"",. one "'<=I
unit """ be mcd for J cycle!.s'good'
JtaIIdrnll. So. to ••••.inain 'good' <Wtdnrdduring pick-houl of crltkoll .,,101time. pn>Vi~ionof "WIl
unit sboukl be OIIC-thirdof the ICfVicc1o:sd,SimilArly.'sood' p"',;,ion for wim.l and l.,-.tcry unit
;,;comidercd to be one-third and ""If to the respective service lo:>d.

6.4.6 Space for Storol:C

Type of
lrerm 10 be stored
S cc Siu m
Slores Minimum Good Excellent
. Bed. for decuscd • USUlIlly3 in number Forboth,
Store-l
.,,1"1of J""":,, ond ~ fOfchiblr"':;'{n;..I.;,,;II.
2.' 2.' '.3
SIO~-2
' Shel' .•.•- fOfretigiou1 boob, sundt for bool;;•• ",fe.
k in of, lbelon 'n .etc. 2.' 3.3 ,.,
Linen Jlarc _carpe~ cia""" lar qOI"'. c10lhFor
• Store-3 2J 2.S '.3
I tern wlterO\'n the.han ClC.
MllnterwICC,toR: -"""" f[Ifflilurc,Iht"""
Store-4
main!efW>CC ••••.terillb lUld , >.9 2.3 2.8
Slore-~ . Store fOfm"!t,,h. fumllllre, "
mlterial'dc. 0.9 2.3 2.8
Table 6.4 Spacc for stores for 0 mosque WIth II capaCTty of about .500 musaflies and
SO students of moktab u~ing the low-Ulbles.
Notc:
l. The dolOi.deriv,,",011the bini. of I rnotqUCof SOO10",,,111•• ond SO<tud<nltof m"!t,,b.
2. St"",,_l mjllOO a minimum r,.ed lpoce irTCS{ICCtive oflbe ClI~ty Of.ilc of the mosque. Space for
Ston:-S will be prnportional tc the:number of the UudcnlO.O!he, ,~ ri"" ,,;11be prnportioolll to
\he number of mtH"IIi ••. To akullte lotal requi"'" Iten 'l'""e for I number of mwolli ••. the ueo
of Swre-2. 3, ~ and ~ tbould be derived proporlionolly from \be Ilb,we ligureo lUldit obonkl be
dim:lly added tc that ofStorc_l. For example. far a """'lnc of 1000 mumllies mel ISO stulknlOof
"",!t"b. the tolal 1Ir>rc,ize (Iar 'Good' SW!<lar<I)
•• 2.g .•.2(3.3'" 2.8'" 2.3)'" 3 x 2.3 ••26.S m'.

'.
 Oolgn Srandards 6-6
•
6.4.7 Circulllliton Space
No furniture is required as liturgical ~upport in the main sa/at spacc of D mosque;
mthrr floor is directly used for differenl activities. So, the:re is no cireulation space: a~
such. The: spae:e used for cireulation is agaio used for act1\'ily ~paee:. To accommodale: •.
larger congregations. sc:eondnry prayer spaces like rlwak and even c:nlmnce lobby also
turns into a SlIlat ~pDCe.Due to this unique: fcature, a very small percentage: of the lotal
space cfln be considered as absolute or net circulfltion space. The: study shows that the:
slairs and DlIITOW approach corridor for the imam lire the 'net' e:irculation space. which
is hardly 3% to 4% of tolftl space. Another S% to 6% can be added for lobby Dnd
other spaces used usually for cireulation lind occasionally for salol. So, the cireulation
space of a mosque: can be summari~ed as,

I;~~lation 'pace: As 0/.ortollli

ss SMce for stlltll
Category of ci=lation spaces
Minimum Good Exccllcnt
nl ;-"'ets ace used onl for circulation J J.l 4
b) Dual-use splice (~~ umolly for circulation and
oceasioMli for salal
l l.l ,
c) Gross space for ei=l.t;oo (ntb)

,
.
8 9
Tflble 6.5 Pc:n:e:ntageof cm::ulntlon space WIth respect to space for so/al . "
•
6.4.8 Egress o.nd Ingress
By nature, the e:\'Deuntion of mrlSa/lli'S after sa/at (especially those: having no
individual sa/at after the mainjama'Q/ and the sa/at ofjumll'a) hIlS some similarities
with thai lit the time of lin:. Though, for the case of evacuation lifter salQ/, factor of
'panic' is oot involved to aggravate the situation lIS for the case of lire. So, the: codes
for SlIfely requin:ments should suffice to avoid congestion especially for cgrcs.~. The
width of doors, e:orridot, stairs and their flllocalion ~hould conform to Bangladesh
National Building Code (B~BC) [6.S. pp. 4-13 to 4.23]. In Table 4.3.1 ofBNBC [6.S,
p. 4.15], the occupancy typc: 'E' c1~ly matehe~ in nalun: to that of the main .ftllat
space of a mo~ue. BUl the mosque space lias no s.ent or furniture at all and thus
demands lin addition of new type of 'Occupancy' as '$o/at 5Jl3ec without any
furnitun:'. For the mllin salal ~pace of a mosque, this new 'Occupancy' type and value
for 'Unit of Floor Area in m1 per occupant' (sec Fig. 6.3) should be incorporated and
the Tnble 4.3.1 ofHNBC rnny be revised as follows:

, - Unil of floor Area

Occupancy
, in m' per OCCUP:Illt
A R",idcnll.o! 18gro••
, lldUC:Oliono!
B Cbo_ 2 na (ICe.I"l 5«.3.5)
I ""',.", B~

I
,D
I
I
C ~ InstiMk>n.ol

He.llhCare
In""li<;nllllft'
Out po.l""l or=J
""""
""""""""
,
•
••
 Daign SJandardJ 6-7
- Unit of Floor AI'ClI
Occupancy
in ml ~r OCCUl"'nt I
A•• embly
With fixed..,.\< Sec Sec. 3.S
E.
Wilbou! fi,ed telI1!
s..J.ii "JI3Cewillwuuny fumi!"",
--,
0,7 neI
I.OI~"
Slinding sp=: only 0.3 neI
With table:! and ch:lill l.S nel

, Bu,;neu and Mnnntil.

Off"", sp=:
'",•....
H_
"""
G
S
Industrial
" '""'~ 10"""
H
J
SIOOISe
10""" """"
Table 6.6 ProposN rcvision~ for the TBble 4.3.1 of BNBC (6.S. p. 4-1 SJ: Occup.:lncy
lond for various occupancies.
Note:
l. The .•.•1"" i, for ~ '000<1' ,WIdMd (ott Fig. 6.) for detail.). The Dddilionallex! fm the JlI'OI'OSCd
n:vi,ion i, highlighied ••.ith ~ Ihade.

The required exit width per occupant (musal/I) for ench exit component~ of a mosque
(occupancy type 'E') is suggesled by BNBC. wbich is subject to the minimum width.
The codes may be summarised as follows.

A 8
C
(mmJ (mm!
(m'
, I) Minimum width 2.0 m.
SUli•.•.•
."y.
'" 0) Minimum ••.idth t.l m, for more thIn SO OttVp:>nlJ,
Ramps &
Corridor
, , h) Minimum ••ldlll 0.9 m, for equlil" or more than SO oecup;o.nl1.
c) Ckarhdght U m.
d) M•••imum ur.,'e! di5umce 23 m, for ma:.irmnn SO oectIfl'IOl

0000
, , 0) Mlnim,;;".;;idth 1.0 m.
b Ckarhd t2.0m.
Table 6.7 Required exit widlh ofa mosque per occupant.

Notes;
I. The Table i, derh-ed from the Table •. 3.2, • .).), 4.).4 and ~l.;llcd &cetiom "r R~BC [6,S. p. 4_1S I"
4.23J.
2. A _ Width f"" Mosque ",ithaul q>rinl:~ 'Y<lCIII(mm per penon). B • Widlll for 1nO$<\\ICIwith
1honIugh sprinkler sy>tem (mm per penon) and C - Minimum widlh (m). C\eo;, hdght (m) and
Maximum !nvcl di5W>Ce(m).
3. Some aspects. portkuluty for fi~ CSClq>C,"" oho impnrtantlO he ukm Cll~ of .
• ) A mosque slwuld Iu,,~ 01 least tv.-o mean< of exilJ leading directly 10 the .lrftt or • leading I" •
eonidor <Ifopen sp=: !Ia>in. II«<:>' 10 c.,ilJ In I••.." independCllt and diffaml dirminm.
b) Dj'play of 'Exit' .igru shall be pbttd In such a ••..Ily thaI it d•••• lKIl inlerfere with Ibe llttnS of
~ny niL N" mirror shall ~ placed tdj~II" oJt "'''y •• ilnay conflt1e d~icn of c,iL
c) The inlerior finish "f k>bby. exit ....n-dm- and c,il shall he of a llOII-combu,tiblc molmal.

6.4.9 noor splice requIrements per mUIalli for a Mosque f.,..

The datil on floor space requirement!; per pcrson for n pnrticulnr building type nre very ....:.-
useful for the architects. Those help 10 assume the required IlInd area, allocation of
 . ,,,,,i ;
.J

spaces for different functions, functional lay~,

--
costing of the projects etc, The
following tnble shows the space requirement for $0Ir1l, services Bnd circulation.
De511P'Slant/aM 6-8

.
Type of
Neigllbotrrhood
Qu.litative Sp>ce for
..,~Ie ,alai
Scr\icc JI'"~
Toilet
Circulation ,.,
Wa:u Slom< Du.l. loUI!
Urin.l Lovntory Nct
~
Minimum 0,94 0.02 om om 0.014 0.D28 0,047 1,07
Residenti"1 GoOO 1.0 I 0.04 om 0.01 0,011 0,03$ 0.056 1.18
Euenent 1.06 0.07 0.02 0.D2 0.D20 0.042 0.064 1.30
Minimum 0.94 0.09 0.04 0,03 0.014 0.028 0.047 1.19
Commercial-I
(Offi.e)
GoOO 1.01 0.1$ 0.07 0.06 0.017 oms 0.OS6 1,40
!!X.enent
'.06 0.26 0.10 0.10 0.020 0,042 10.064 1.65
Minimum
0.94 O.OS 0.12 0.04 0,014 0.02810.047 >.2.
Comm=ial.2
(Markel)
GoOO 1,01 0.10 0.20 0.03 0.017 oms 0,0$6 1,$0
!!X.ellenl 0.16 0,33 0.12 0.020 0.042 10.064 1.80
1.06
Tnble 6,8 Floor spacc peT person for n mosque (UOlt - m ).
.
Notes:
I. 'J1l<,Tobie 6.8 &I""" • 'Sul):lotal' (or 000' JI*" peT mumll:" COft!idcrin8!be fwon dependartt
dirt'Cllyon the mon~ of musalliN. To dcrn"Cthe 'TOlar J~ rcqtlirtd for " """'llle, proponion.o.l
I.
.izc of 'St<=-5' (..., Tobie 6 'I for dttal" mel example) mel the .i.e of 'S~ I' .hould be ad<lcd10
• the 'Sub-totoTSJ"'CCmjuircd fflt thaI rnMQ\Il'.
2. Spxe f<>r,alaI, """', toilet lind,IDte l""ludn the clearma::o;9oithiothe 'l"'~ for rel"td "livilie1,
3. The ligures '00"11 in 'Cireultlion' i""tuM both the 1pKe1 • 'Net" (u.ually <ned for lalat) .nd
'~I...,.e' (o<:a>'Iion,dlyu.ro for .alar), I'or detai'" ..., T.ble 6.6 and relattd smion 6.4.7, One
ClIn add this 'DwI1,u••' space with thaI of '$1"'= for Solal' ond dtduc:1 the same from tho
'{;ireulation' depending on the ~ one i. Solns 10•••••'t,
'I. 5efvkc 'P"Ce include> the circulation ",ithin iloClf,R<'quirtd space and oumber of "mil, urinol,
b''"tory.nd ston: arc ba<edon Table 6.3, T.ble 6.4 ond Table 6,5,

6,5 Confl!,:urntlnn ohpnee "-

The criteria innucneing thc eonfigurntion of mosque space is discusscd in Section 5.S
of Chapter Five. In the following Table, the possible length, width and height of main
.<uIOI !>pllee of II mosque is deduced with respect to the diffcrent numbers of qatars.
Figure S,6, S.S and 6.3 is related to Table 6,9,
. ..
No. of Minimum Good Excellent
I
•
•
qUlurs
~
,,
Lenglh

"
3.48
6.50
Width
, • Height
1.7'1
3.25
,
2,93
J.65
Length
i
3.62
6,76
Width

1.81
W
,
H~ight
,
2.93
3.74
.',."
Lenb'1lJ Width

3.70
,
1.85
3.'15
Height
,
2.93
3.78

,J
,,
9.52
12.S4
4.76
6.27 ,..•
4.63 '.00
t3,04
'I.9S

'"'
4.75
5.77
10.10
13.30
5.05
6,65
I
I
4.82
5.85
15.56 7.78
'"8 16.18 8." 6.78 16.50 8.25
9.B5
6,88

7
IS.58
21.60
9.29
10.80 '"'
'"7
19,32
22.46
'M
lI.n
7.79
8.SI
19.70
22,90 11.45
7.92
8.9S

.. ,
8 24.62
27.64
13.82
12.3I
W.48 '"' 14.37
25.1iO
28,7'1
12JlO 9.82
10.84
11.02
26.10
29.30
13.05
14.65
,." -
Table 6.9 Possiblc length, width and height of main safal space ofa mosque (uoit"m),

•
 lk.!jgn StamJard,' 6-9

Notes:
l. Thil Teblo ;" rdllttd'D Figure 5.6. 5.5 one!6.3. The fIO'lluls.ionIlnd eqlUtions used to de,;'." the
wille lII'eeblb<::>mely diocuntd in SectiDD5.5 DfChaplor Five, Tht cql1Olionl~ •• fDIIovo .• ("'"
Section 5.5):
Y" 2x" 2(g><n,'" c) ••hx n,,'" If •• G. X "
(n," Sumber of qalar:<, n,," mu.<nlli per qalll', " •• number of b.l"; ~fenlbly odd numbers)
x ••t Xn, ~ e In," Number of qatar:<)
e, •• (i~j"'k) (ingC1lenll)
•• 2.9l m (for. """""c)
e. •• " .•.Y,.fIx' ~ y') >< WIll]" (in general)
•• l.552 ~ 0.289 .f{~'.•.y') (for. mosque)
Tht ••"lri:ing be:itbl '/! i. the grQlt1 on<:Frome,and e.,

2. Tht TobI" I. dedueed up 109 qatar:<, which relICh!be upper limit of \"1<Ullloeuity; 15.2. m from
bM", (see Section 5.5). FD' KOU'Ilielll..,."."id•••.,ion,!he ""!l"m wall mould no! be:more \han '16.6
m from the ;"'0"'" """ilion (see S«Iion 5,5). The limillltion of 9 qaum oetm< ""'''"lllbl" on Ibi.
"onte:<t.1•••.

6.6 Furniture
Exccptlhe mlmba,. pmctically no other fumitun: is required for in the mosque proper
for salal or bayan. Some low-llIblc,sfor mak1ab, beds for deceased, shelves for books
ond boxes for shoes and umbrellas ore usually found in a mosque as supporting
furnilure. The sUlndllrds for mjmbDr, low-llIble5, shelvcs and boxes ore SOO"'l1in
Figure 6.6, 6.7 lind 6.8 respecti\"ely.

6.7 Requirement of water

To design the plumbing s)'l'lem for oplimum efficiency, one has 10 know lhe
requirement of water for wazu. loilet and other services. Shariah diclDlc,~a mioimum
size of 20.9 m2 and so deep thot its bonom is oot visible from surface for ao on-
ground water reservoir or a pond. wheTehands arc directly plunged into the water to
perform WIl"ZU [6.2, p. 46]' The Tllble 6.8 shaWl!the Ilmount of water required for
WI7::U. toikt and clenning. The data is deri\"ed form pmetiea] observation and

mensuremenL~.
- _ ..
Wazu (pe, mUSil/II) Toilet (per mu.<allf) Cleanid'g- <Per ml offloo, area)

Supplied Water Sa/at Spacc' Service Spacc

Pitch •••. Lavalory Urinal
water ,."sc,yoi, Mop Wuh MDp Wash

Minimum 2.8 1.0 0.8 3.0 1.0 0.08 0.8 0.1 1.0
Optimum 3.2 1.2 1.0 ,.. 2.' 0.12 1.2 1., 1.'
Ma~imum 'A1.7 1.3 13.6 3.0 0.16 1.6 0.2 2.0
Table 6.]0 Requirement ofwate, (unit'" litre).

NOles:
I. The JI'Inem of service u!ICvane. with the types of ""itbbourhcxxl (Stt CMpter "Tbree and
lIfJl'"I'dien A.~)
2. FttqlJt/lCY and type Df'el=ing' dtpend on the mo;nleltarlCCpolicy and ~ of indivktu.al
mosque. U••••Uy. SII/GI fJ'lI"";' ""'Ilf'"d II h:lt<Ionce II day and ••1Ultedonce 8 monlb and ••.•.••.
iee
<pII<~i. m<lfll'N D' ••.••he<!.,lc;>u once • day.
 - ..--
"'- Design Standards 6-10

3. Water reqmred to l1u,h t~Tt)~gho;,{cms in loilet is included for 'Optimum' amI 'Maximum'
standards, 'Minimum' ,tamlard considers the flushing by pitchers. The capaoilies of cistern, "'"
considered as:
oj Medium one for lavatory _6 R2 litre<,calculated for 'Opllmum' standard.
b) Large one for lavatory _ \3.04 IiI"", calculated for 'MaxImum' standard.
oj U.ua! type for unnals - 2,27 litfo,

6.8 Conclusion
Some design standards are formulated to help the architect to design a mosque. A
systematic method shows how to determme the capacity of a mosque with respect to
the community ,ile. Figures, tables and charts are developed to show qibla direction
from different zi/as of Bangladesh.

Anthropometric data is derived from survey on Bangladeshi people. Space and service
standards in terms of ergonomic data arc deduced from practical experiments. The
prime task of an architect is to understand the activities and formulation of design
proposals to support it. In this context, the standards may help as a handy tool for
assistance. It has included space requirements for salat, religious discussion, wQzU and
many other activities performed in a mosque. From all these fmdings, gross space
requirement per person for a mosque is summarized, which is an important data for an
architect. Possible space configuration, service requirements, furniture and fixture
standards etc. arc also fomllllated from practical ergonomic study.

References
[6.1] 1997 Statistical Yearbook of Bangladesh, Rmgladesh Bureau of Statistic"
Government of the People's Repuhlic of Bangladesh, Dhaka, 18th Edition, 199K
[6,2] Thanuv!, Maolann A,hraf Ali, (lraru:lation: Faridpuri, Maolana Shamsul Haque),
Behe,hti Jeor, Vol. 1, Emdad!a L1brary, Dhaka, 1990.
[~3] Chiara, Jo,eph Dc and Callender, John Hancock (editors); Time-Saver Standards for
Building Type; 2nd Edition, McGraw-Hili Book Co, Singapore, 1987.
[6.4] Sayeed, M. Abu (and others); Prevalence of Diabetes ln a Snburhan Population of
Banglade,h, Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, Vol. 34, pp, 149-155, Elsevier
Science Ireland Ltd., 1997.
[6.5] Bangladesh National Building Codc, Housing and Bnilding Research Institute &
Bangladesh Standards and Te,ting Institution, Dhaka, 1993.
[6.6J Mian, M. Ali and Mian, M. AJimllllah; An inrroducrion to Statistics,' Ideal Library,
Dhaka; 1971.
[6.7] Daniel, Wayne W.; Rio-statistics: a Foundation for Anaiysis in the Health Sciences;
Ii" Ed.; John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Singapore; 1995.
[6.8] Oxford Talking Dictionary; Compnter CD version; The Leammg Company, Inc. UK;
1998.
[6.9] Winick, Charles; Dictionary olAnrhropology,' Littlefield, Adams and CO. New Je"ey,
USA, 1961.
[6.10] Pheasant, Stephen; Ergnnomics. Work and Health; Macmillan Academic and
Professional Ltd.; London, UK; 1991.

I If total population eannot be determined directly, it cau be derived JS, numw of Mu,llm house bold x
•..
,

•
5,6 (average household si,. uf Bangladesh) [6.1, p, 25].

, The Muslim populatlOuis 88.3% of lotal in Bangladesh [6,t, p. 32].

 Design Standards 6-11

) For B.ngladc,h, lbc male/female ratio is 106' 100 [6.1, p, 251.

4 Perceotage of male populatlOfl from age 10 to 6il"- years is 71 ,85% in Baoglade,h [6, I, p,29].

, II is ",ajlb to perform .mlat injama 'at in • mo"'luc [6.2. pp, 127-128].

, It i, for the mosques in TI.,<identi.1neighbourhond. The mosques in omoc a,C", have relatively
smallL"- congregation m Jumu'a as friday IS' weekly holiday illld the office, TI.'TIl.inclosed. The
phe'mmL'Ilon is more acute for tho case of Bangladesh ,ecretariat Mosque, as aocc," to lhe mosque IS
unusu.lIy restricted for ontside" As. result, It has few musallie., in Jamu'a (See d.t. in Appendices,
A.4).

, Male Muslim, entitlcd for salat is 3500, oul of which a number nf 420 mu,'allies (12%) perform< the
-<alatof Maghrih in .verage,

, on lilro,pom.e,try \,an(l).,br'-'pa:m- * -tre-I n lF 'nlhropome"trie, fro anthmp_ + _me'trie -metry] • tho

study and teclmique "f laking hUllliln body mc",uremems, especially for u,e on a compar.t1ve or
da"ifieation haSlS [http://www.ode.comlanthro/tuloriaIJrunitl.html].ADthmpometryls the branch of
"ienee that deals wIth the mea,uremelll and proponion' of the human body and lheir variation [6,8,
search re<ull for the word]. A, an o'pedal field of aTIthmpology, II includes mea>uremenl,. ,har are
mken on bolh "kel"IOnS and livinJ; I'""srms, slIeh as smlure, bodily proportion, and longth and
breadlh of ,he head, The colour of skin, halr. and eyes and siml/ar q<lf1lilalive measure" am also
lake" [6,9, p, 30]. Only lhe dimensional a.'peN' of hnman body, as it i, mo<tly related to the fldd of
arcbitecrure. "ill be given especIal lmportanoc iTIthe ,mdy.

, Tbe word ergonomics i, deri,'ed from the Greek erg{}" (work) and nomos (TI.turallaw) [6.10, p. 3]. It
i, lbo field of study lhat deal< Wilb lhe relationship belwoen people and their worling environment, as
it affect, effiCIency, safety, and case ofaellon [6.8, ,eareh re<llit for the word; 6.10. pp. 3.4].

to A, fOTexample. Time-S.ve' St.ndard, [6,3, p.3] consider< lbe average adult height (male) as 175.26
om, which is 162,11 em tor Bangladesh [6,4, p, 153].
 Figure 6-1

Table 6.1: Qibla Direction from Different Zllas of Bangladesh

'" (',oordmate, I Qlbla Direction Qlbla Direction

.,.:!;
.~
#
SI. Name of
the Zila
(in decimal deg,ee)
L"titude
from North
Longitude (Clock Wise +ve)
from West
(Clock WlSe +ve)
Q 0).. q q.
01 Bari,al +22,705 +90,373 -81.406 8.594

-.n!
"0

".==:
. 02
03

04
Dhola
Jhalakall
Pirojput
+22.084
+22.647
+22.570
+90.643
+90,210
+89.989
-81.317
.81393
-81.382
I
8.683
8.607
8,618
"Q
0; Barguna +22.160 +90.102 -M.963 9,037
Patuakhali +22.357 +90.241 -81.114 8,886
'" +22.202 +92.210 _X0.492
"' Bandarban 9.508

"" Khagrachlmtl
Rangamati
+23,100
+22 (>42
+91.9651
+92.199
-81.349
.80.883
8.651
9.117
I "'w Chittlgong +22,332 +91.824 -80.702 9.298
C"X., Ba?a, .•.21.437 +91.985 -79.875
" 10.125

"
U
Brahmanba,ia
Cballdpur
+23,968
+23,152
+91.104
+90,716
-82.370
-81.732
7.024
8.268

"
U
Comilia
Feni
+23.457
+23.009
+91.J80
+91389
-81.885
.81.421
8.115

8.579
Laks~mipUT +22.948 +90,800 -81.521
" Noakhali +22.815 +91.098 .81.321
1 8.479

" 8.679

'" Hobiganj
MOlllllviBazar
+24.380
+24.481
+91.408
+91.703
-82,663
_82,645
7,337

" Sunamganj +25.058 +91.375 _~3.294

7355

" +24.899 +91.876 -82.988

0.7011
7,012
" Sylilct
+23.707 +90.408 _82.335
" DO""
I
7.665

" Gaziput +24335

+23,823
+90.998
+90.087
-82.740
-82.537
7.254

" ManikgmJj
+23.493 +90.379 _82.142
7.463

" Munshiganj 7.858

'" Narayanganj
Nar,hindl
+23,620
+23,922
+90.496
+9D.718
-82.228
_82.446
7.772

" 7.554

"" FaridpuT
Rajbari
+23,607
+23.760
+89,848
+89.652
-82.400
-82.003
7.600
7.397
+23.020 +89,803 _81.852
'" GopalganJ 8.148

" Ma<1aril'ur
Shamtpu,
+23.175
+23.201
~0,203
+90,314
-81.891
.81.886
8.109

" Jamalpu, +24.918 +89939 .831129

8.114

" 0.371
(Contmued)
\
 Figure 6-11

Table 6.1: Qibla Direction from Different Zilas ofBangladcsh (continued)

•• CoordinatL"l Qibla Direction Q,bla Direotion

, ,
.•
•• SL Name of
!he Zila
(m decimal degree)

L.tltnde Longitude
from North
(Clook WIse +ve)
from West
(Clock Wise +ve)
is 0 ;. q q.

" Sherpur +25.0IY +,)0,008 .83,704 6,296

.
..
•••
~" "
-~.s I
1!~:6 "
Kishoreganj
Mym.,-nsingh
+24.436
+24.750
+90,768
+90.401
.82,911
-83,321
7,089
6,679

,.
" Netrokon8 +24.886 +90.730 _83.344 6.656

I Tangoil +24.249 +89.920 _82.993 7,007

'0 I Jessore +23.160 +R9.214 _82.144 7.856

'" I .rnenaldah +23.545 +89.180 -82.529 7.471

" Magura +23.496 +R9.422 -S2.413 7.587

•• "
Narall +23,168 +89.498 -82.075 7.925

.Eq
••• "
llagechat +22 658 +89.802 -RU07 8.493

~i5 " K1mlna +22,849 +89.552 -81.754 8.246

.
Salkhira :22 705 +89.0Xt .81.736 8.264
"
" Chuad.nga +23,648 +88.856 -82.722 7.278

" Kushtla +23,935 +89.001 -82.963 7.037

" Meherpur +23.775 +88.640 _82.910 7.0YO

•• Bogm +24,845 +89,372 -83.742 6.258

'" Joypurhal +25. ](]3 '8Y,02R .84.108 5.892

" Dllliljpnr +25.626 +88,643 -84.762 5.238

" Pandagarh +26.334 +88,553 .85,508 I 4.492

" Tbolmrgaon +26.030 +88.458 -85,235 4.765

"
;;
Paboa +24.005 +89,242 -82,960 7.040

,
Slmjgani +24.456 +89.698 .83,260 6.740
:c• •"
.. "
••• Naogaon +24.81 t +~K944 .~3,846 6,154

;s " Nalore +24.410 +88.986 -83.436 6,564

'" Nawabganj +245YO

I
+~8.269 -83.841 6,159

" Rajshobl +24.371

I
+88.597 -83.518 6,482

"" Gaibandha

Kurigmm
+25.328
+25.827
I
+89.544
+89.696
-84.157
.84.591
5,843

5.409
'"
"' Lalmonirh.t +25.909 I +89.446 -84.760 5.240

'M
"
I Nilpbomori +25.936 I +88.848 _8HOO 5.()(J0

I I Ranb'PUr +25.739 I +89.254 I -84.660 5.340

Table 6,1 The qibla directions and the corresponding latitude and longi(~de of64
zilas of Bangladesh. (The Lalitude and longitude is derived from lbe COmpulCTprogram _
Encarto Interactive WOTldAlia, 2000, Miero,oll CorpOTali"n, USA. Tho ""leul.tion is dono hy
spberical trigonometno formula, shown m Seenon 4,43 of Ch'pter Four).
 Figure 6-IIi
+- -

-85.0

-84,0

25

24

23

22

-80,0
-80,5

-80.0 -79.5

90 91 92 93

umgitudc
Fig. 6.1 Lines pass through different places in Bangladesh of similar angular value (in
decimal degree) for gihla directions.

NOTES:
I. Bangladesh lies between latitudes of 20,567" Nand 26.633' N and between longitudes of
88,017' E and 92.683' E (Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc., UK, Computer CD version
1998).

2. The line, pass through the differenl locations of similar angular value for q,bla direction in
Bangladesh .The angular values shown in the lmC1larc in decimal degree and measured
from magnelic North and considered as clockwise positive. The angular values for gibla
directions are shown al an interval orO.5". The values should be derived by approximation C. .
for the places, which are not exactly passed through by the given lines. ~'
 Fjgu~6-IV

~ ~ t;
•..• ...• ~

, :;• •
,
•
E N
-• .-
~
N
~ ~
N N

,.""
N 0
N •
• " ~
U
N N
" -"
,
~ ~ $
~
" ,• ", " 2. ,
• , ~

'" • •,••
~
~ .,;
•
~ 0

.-, .-, .- .-•

M ~

E' ~
•- '"• ••
N
~
~
M ,
"
• • ~•
N

""
M M
;
M

.-•• ;:• " •

M

~ .;
~
~
~
u
~
~- $ •:
,
0
"• "•• -•
•
N
~ ~ .;
~ '" N

• •
U • ~
•
.- " •, • •
•.- • '1." ~
~
] "
- N

•• -
~
"
" ",
•,
,
'""
• " .;
M

- - " '" '" ,

N

,
•
N M

'.• •
M

~
~ '" •" -
• ~ ~

~
-,- - •
"'.5 • 8 M N ,
,,
~• ~ ~
" .; ~ •
• ~
I' ~
"
,,
.~ ~
u

,•
'5

@)
i
~
•• ~
,
"~
,. . j
.~
u :J
•• , ~Il
N

• •
M

~• -
0 , N M
• ,~
~

•
 Figun.' 6-V

Q,
If!.
d'J>' \
v-.~
,... ,: -'"

'I.
~
,,
i ,j
,,~
\!
'
,

j
1<---0 r--..-: b1..-

••
I

.-.
,I
~

-
~

~
I
_T__

I.L
'''jl
. ,
\'.!
I••
I c-~e":t~-'-~'-l,el+-c
,,'.~----~.'
, .
retable d " h - ("xh)
2
Fmcnsion (m) Clenmn~(m) Gross dimension (m) Gross area (m )
, f
Minimum 1.13lo.1Si1.28 0.60 0.23 0.Q2 I,SI 0.62 0,94
Good 1.1710.1611.3310.63 0.24 I 0.02 I.S7 0.64 I,OJ
Excellent 1.2010.161 1.35 I0.64 0.25 I 0.02 1.60 I 0.66 1.06
Fig. 6.3 Sp~ccfor Sa/Of ormale.
NOICS:

I. Then: lII'e.pecirlc s..nn~~Jfor C>~ poslI1J'eof la/"I. FOf sljdaA Ofprostration, the thigh t!>ou1dbe
upri&h~ the Iw>d, """"Id be detached from the SlOlllllCbon<!ground, Thi, •••il1 emile such I
lrimgular ~ beneoth the Jtornach, 10 Ih'l1• kid of • goal can p3!:5lhnlogb. [6.2, pp. 117-120).
2. ~ 'c' I. dttormincl mainly by the c;<\nlspace ~iml for 'individu31'.aIQI. One ,.,,,,,alli, ,.,1>0
;~ jim mumin! from !be pm<tration, ~ "'-n)' clwlcc to hit the ""ned Of~ ~ OUtletIn the
lDOSCclolln of the one in /Jonl of blm, who 1. cilh<r al mid ••• y to prostration or in rtl~ position
(bent horizonlilly .•ilh hl!llh 00 kn=).
3. The dirmmion 's' I. 1lle gross QiJla, <pacing. The clearance 'c' i. included ~. which n 1150
Ippmprille for the c1e:1r&ncewilli lbc nJIlml one!"'~ml ,,1" (i.e.. the bx1: and fronl ,ide). !'or
.••
ride<I •••••1ICC$
wilh nonh.nd SOlIlh",•.U or my .imiln obstruction.. value two limes 10the •.•Iue
of'r lbould \)., conrid=d.
 Figurr 6.V/

•,
A relatively relaxed poslure: A poslure similar 10 that at the end of ~a/OI: II
. I

---
lb

1-j-a--+ '
I

Nel dimension Clearance Gross dimension Grossaren.

'=)
, m'
Minimum
~~~d
56 10 62 4S 8
a'
64
77
-fe
is70-f6
1\' X b C',II:d'
0.45 0.39
Good
" 7J 6S 50 10 68 *7560
Exeellent
" 74 66 51 12 71
Fig 6.4 Sp:1CCfor sitting In different POStures In 11mosque:.
. it 78 63 0.56
0.61
0.45
0.49

NOles:

I. In !hi. <lIIl;e~. usuolly no J;j;l1ificanteleannce I. ~ired. Howev••, I el=ulee of lOan"

~ I<>1':<1
the j;roS!dimemioM.

2. The fipun.,.. mtInded 10wbole numben in d!mcn<lon. mol 10two dedmJ.1numben in .rea •.

3. It can be deduced lhat tlle ~ ~i=nena for Jllling iJ .!loIn SO% oflhat for :talal (see Fig..6.3). So.
lo assume lho ~;ly of lllTIOJqUCfor .Inina di!lCUSrion or any <>lbcr'a"",1 thaI i. pcrfonnm Ill/ning
pooilion, the figuf(lcan be dni,"Cd by mul~plying the CllJ=il)' for IiJla' by 2.

..

,
 Figure 6-1'/1

-.-+~-t-.---

Side vicw for ,<mil fncility. Top view for WQZU facility.

Not 0im0mi0D
I=l (<m) (om>
'"'"W"", CimJwioft
Cl<2nn« Dimenoion ~
1m'
~
(m')
.~
'"'"
1m'
•
,
• ,• , ,,• ; j l ,m • •
t-
, •• ••
I- - - .~
.~"
Minimum

f"",!km
, ""
U

to 20 20
Il ~~

I~ 52

1jH
" "• "
"M

" " "

2$ 22
•
• '" " "
12 20 70
I-,
1$ 22 74
t- " " "'
10 2) M)) ~
••• .~ 0.78

1.00

.
Frg. 6.5 Space for wa=tl
" .. " .
)0 2'
" " ". L.,
fllclllty WIth supplied WilIerthrough pIpe:•
~ 0-81 0.49 1.30

No, •• :
I. An ~l to k~ bclotlgings li1:eo •••••.11 ~ Sfl(Ctael•• Ole. Is vtry meful. In fi~ 6.5. 1M
ocbmultk pmpoul [Of the platfDml of width 'c' and.t the !>eight of'(h+;'J1' from the s:round obovo.• mch
an arrnngcmmt.

2. Whil••••'l5hlnl: f""" • '\lfIPOf1 ( •. J.. 0 IOIlJIdpipe) for th(m may gi~ much rnn,=kn\:e (<hown in
fis=).

J. A... P ~ (d.o.e+f). [tis caJcullI.tt.l withoul considering IIlY •••.•1I(or Jimiiar obsll'UClion) II !he mil. ~
may odd 0.057 m' for =h obstruction 10 gel rnc>reDeCUril. "ahle for A~,

•. A" i.40%, 50% and /iO% of!he A. for \be ,WIdanI, 'minimum', 'good' and 'ucellent respc'Clh .• ly.

6. The flit=' oro I'<l<IfIdcdto l\>1Jd.dmil numben in ••.•• calculatioM.

/ ,
 • -_. Figure 6-1'111

Front Elevation Side Elc\"alioll

• b , d , f g
; Minimum lO lO IS SO 2S 2S 2S
3D
i' Optimum

I'F" Ma;.:;imum 25 40
IS 2S
" "
90
JS
SO
JS
SO JS
NIS. 6.6 Dimension for mlmba r ('unll-em)
60

• ates: -

8bcdefg

;Minimum' 40 6 20 25 24 29 26

I Optimum' 46 8 2328273331

MII"imum 56 1025 31 2931 33

B'b'c'd'c'f'
..••...••.-=- _.- g

, Minimum S062530293430

Optimum 60 82833323838 -

Lo,,-tables
. Q'..W+-
for stud cnts und leachers
~
l
llit' M'
of BXlmum 10 1032 38 37 4S .46 I
Fig. 6.7 mafctab (uniL" em). '

NOles:
1, TIleltn"'~
••... ou.o , the k>w-llb'- ~
"" •• lIIbk I<""""'" for 3 studtnl!
2. It t, fttOlItlI\tfIde "" ,Of the Sludart "hued
. 0fI the moduk' • .
~IT.'ct;,.• and for m::. ~ ~~.~'" \m;l fDr 2-4 m>dm •. [n the ICbem:ltic dnlwing, :I
,.dilT"~lllO"'""
-'J onion:ts.I"81ow.tabl'• orlesstlwl'. II not cost
.

•
 ._.•.. ~ ,'
------ Figllre frlX

•
•
•
••
, .,. •
1-'-1
.'

,
Plan at 1n..,1 AA F"",! I!lt"'auon -
,~
Sec1ioo XX

Option-] Shc1fup \0 hand-reach height.

6

,
-.
I
l~l ,•
~ _._~ t

B Top ,"lew
~
Side 'Okw
2i

Under window 1111

- _I
1IIIlll1ll11l1l111ltJIHlIi IHlUlllIlIIIIIJllI!lIII!
lJ:no"el'••'lllkbdf

,Oplion-2 Bo)<on the ground. Option-) At window sill and woll-shelf

J
, b , d
• f , h i J k
Minimum
o timum
23 13 32 7 97 II 179
,"0 " 90
" 20

MllXimum
2S
29 "
'" " " " "
12 51 120 10 2S
38 10 94 '90 '"0 2S
Fig. 6.8 Dimensions of shelves for safe keeping of shoes nnd umbrellas (unit"" em).
61
"
Notes:
I. Shoes ,bould lI01 II< ollawcd in side the ltl.IIin mosque rOf roaf. keq,ing (see SC'Ction 5..3.<4.3 f•••
d.mil.). So, it i. Ittu.mnmded to plxe Ibe Jet •.••• (Option-I) It the miry lobby (•••• Iig.S,2.3.a. b
ond c) llId lhooI: should be plltced in I dispcncd ••••nntt to .,"Oid roncmlnuiOfl of crowd.

2. In uM,'OiIbble ,ilUllli<>n,dtoes an be kepi v.ithin the mo<que (Option-2

,
and J) will! ••.•U1I"""'.

1. Tho umbrdl~ ctll i, gmmted from 1be module of ~ «II. Hm.

by merging vertia.lly ~I
,boe «Ill and .plitling tho.e h<>rilOll~IIy,!he umbrella ..,11. Irc &-."'loped. In !he labl. abo, .• , the
tIIid'n •.•• ofborizOflLaI ond ,"crtiaIl ,helf elements i, comidered IDbe 2 em .t lho outer frame.IbDrd••
mel I em [Dr!he =1, ••ilith _y vary occooling lO!he .t=gth D[ malm.I."" ledmique Dfm.ldn&.
W.ter dro.~ r~Hily ohDuld be provided for t1mbrolla cell,.

" t
 A"'pilogue E-'

Epilogue

Thc word mosque, which is the English version of the Arabic word 'masjid', is a place
of prostration. Phenomcnally, any place, which is used and also maintained for sa/at,
can be defincd as a mosque even if it does not have any sheltcr. However, tor climatic
proteetion, privacy, ease in maintenance, identity and other factors - a built fOill]with
prayer spaces and service facilities is popularly defined as a mosque. It plays
significant role in spiritual and practical life of a Muslim at pcrsonal and communal
level.

To dcsign a mosque, one should know certain historieal aspects like origin, evolution,
derivatives etc. about its components. The first mosque of Islam establishcd by thc
Prophet (S) in Medina is taken as the conceptual and fnndamental basis for a mosque;
The Prophet's mosque, simple and absolutely function based, remained almost
unchanged during thc Prophet's life-time and the Cahph hood of first four Caliphs. As
Islam expanded through Syria-Byzantine regions of rich architectural heritage, the
splendid and monumental churches influenced the mosque architecture. The Muslim
migrants from the land of the Prophet (S) were influenced by the splendid church
architecture of mediaeval period and thc ncwly converted Muslims had already the
inherited image of an extravaglllltbuilding of worship. Thus a process was initiated to
convert the mosquc architecture from simple to a gorgeous one. Monumental scale,
profuse ornamentation, addition of sky-scraping minarets - all thcse are the res"ltant
of a spirit deviated, at least to some extent, from the teaching, of the Prophet (S). On
the regional context, some spatial variations like courtyard type or enclosed type are
the out come of local c1imatc. Other local factors also played significant role for a
global variation in finer details.

In the contemporary mosque architecture, a new trend i, set as the eomm"nity people
themselves started to establish mosque" which was previously performed by the
rulers, the influential and rich citizen,. As to renect the varied aspirations of different
community, these mosques somewhat departed from the formal approach and there
cvolvcd a ncw trend of 'popular architecture'. In congested urban setup, to put on
some attire of distinction, the mosques are designed with somc superficial elements
like fabe arches, non-structural domes and profuse ornamcntation. Architects are
gradually getting involvcd in thc design process. Some of the mosques designed by
fonnally trained arehitects reflect the intrinsic meaning, objectivity and tradition. On
the contHuy, many of those mosques sevcrcly fail to accomplish lhese issues.
Moreover, theological justifications are little explored and implemented. This thesis
may be used a, a checklist to identify what it should be, at least for prospective future
attempts.

A mosque should be designed through somc conccptual guidelines ha,ed on the

fundamental theological and practicala,pects. Thematically, a mo,que is a nucleus of
inspiration and guidllllce for all Islamic activities. H works as a platform of unity,
 Epilogue E-2

brother hood and interaction. A nnidircctional qibla orientation for the whole world
exprcsscs the one-ummah concept. In physical manifestation, it possesses the virtue of
austerity, simplicity and clarity.

The architect should be careful regarding some basie considerations like site features,
layout with respect to accurate qibla direction etc, Qibla direction for Bangladesh, as
popularly known as the 'west' cardinal direction is not accurate. As there is scope to
generate liUle controversy to this seemingly new issue, this thesis elaborates all the
aspects including definition, background, methods of dctennination of qibla direction
and its flcxibility in shariah. An architcct should try to design with respect to correct
qibla direction. But, ifin an existing mosque, any deviation is found with the accurate
qibla direction and it is very difficult to rectify, it should be kept as it is. There will
occur no shortcoming in SO/ai, as in this inevitable situation; sharioh allows flexibility
up to a deviation of 45" in both ways from the correct qiblo direction. It is important
to note that, none should try to be over-particular and crcatc chaos or confusion in this
issue, as Allah dislikes going excess and ercating chaos especially with the issues of
deen.

The design approach, spatial analysis of function, criteria for designing different
functional spaces, building components etc. are elaborately discussed in different
chapters with reference to theology and practice. To determine the configuration and
size of the main prayer space, there is little scope to be notional. Theological
guidelines define this configuration to be a rectangular one, which is a result of
certain features like strait qolar, equal length of qalars (for any unavoidable situation,
frontal qalar may be grcater than the rear ones, but not the vice versa),

The changc in levels in praycr spaces should be done carefully, so that it does not
develop the phenomenon of 'discontinuity' according to the parameters of shariah. In
the respective chapter, some examples from design approach show the possible
mistakes and the ways to avoid it.

Size, number and allocation of thc cntry, stairs and other circulation spaecs should be
given extra attention to avoid congestion especially for the large congregations. It is a
common problem particularly in the mosque with huge capacity and those happened
to expand vertically in several floors.

For wozu facility, popular arrangement is donc from running water through pipelines
particularly in urban areas, which causes severe wastage compared to the actual water
required. Proposition is made to get rid of this wastage, as it is vehemently opposed
by Islam, Again, safekeeping of shoes apparently may seem to be a simple matter, but
practically it crcatcs a lot of difficulties. Somc propositions arc madc to guide the
architects to solve the problem.

Onc should follow the principles of austerity for selection of building materials and
finishes. Every item should be analyzed in tenns orlire-cycie-costing,
 epilogue £-3

Some design standards are formulated to help the designer. A systematic method
shows how to determine the capacity of a mosque with respect to the community size.
Tables and charts arc developed to show qib/a direction from different zi/as of
Bangladesh.

Anthropometric data is derived from survey on Bangladeshi people. Space and service
standards in terms of ergonomic data are deduced from practical experiments. The
understanding of the activities and formulation of design proposals to support it is the
prime task of an architect. In this context, the standards may help as a handy source. It
has included space requirements for sa/at. itiqaf, religious discussion, wazu and many
other activities performed in a mosque. from all these findings, gross space
requirement per person for a mosque is summarized, which is an important data for an
architect. Furniture and fixture standards are also formulated from practical
ergonomic study.

This thesis tried to synthesize the theology and practice. lbroughout the process, it
had been the urge to establish a comprehensive congruity in between these two
realms, which is never tried to bridge up. There is every possibility of fortuitous
inclusion of flaws. For any ambiguity or confusion, especially in the ficld of theology,
one should eOll5ulta mufti for further clarification.

From the findings, propositions and comments made to formulate the design criteria
and standards the architects may get some light for their individual design approach.
All the elements and issues of a mosque arc analyzed in brief due to the limited scope
of this attempt. Every individual issue has the potentials for more elaborate and in-
depth research. Thus, the work can be concluded as a preamble for the future
researchers.
•

.,
Appendices
 • Appendices A.l-I

A.l Glossary of Terms

Adhan

AI masjid al Aksa

'amal

A"
Ayah

Baitu/llah

Balyem

Caliph The selected leader of the Muslim state.

Chauchala Bengali word which means 'four roofs',

dawal Mean, invitation and particularly connotes to the invitation 10

Islam. "...
Deen Religion; the religion ofIslam.

Dikka Platform used by the supplementary prayer leader

du'a-;-masmmah The utterance performed by the Prophet (8) while initiating,

continuing and completing different 'amal.
Eid Two great festivals oflslam.

Fajr The sa/at perfoffilcd before dawn.

farj

1"""
lladiih

Halal Something that is lawful and permitted in J~lam.

Hijm Emigration of/he Prophet Muhammad (8) from Mecca to

Medina in September 622 AD; this marks the beginning oflhe
Muslim calendar.
Hujra khana Chamber or cell; the house used by the Prophet (5); the
accommodation ror imam.
Imam Leader orthe congregational prayer, sa/ai, that the Muslims
offer five times a day. It is sometimes used to refer to the head
of an lsiamic State.
 Appendices A,I-l1

Iqamah Establish; usually the eall within the mosque to initiate a iama 'at
for ,~a/al.
lsha The obligatory sola!, prayer, after sunset later in the evening.

ltiqaf To stay in the mo>qLlefor 'amal for certain period of time.

lwan Vaulted or flat roofed hall, open at one end.

Juhr The obligatory sa/at after the sun erosses the zcnith,

Jaiz Means 'allowed' by Islamic shariah, referring to any conduct or

deed.
Jali Sereen

jama'at Congregation for saiat.

Jami The mosque where the salal of Jumu '" is performed.

lanaza The saiat for the deceased,

Jumu'a The Friday prayer as the sun crosses the zenith.

Kaba The square-shaped building in the eentre of the Holy Mosque in

Mecea, Saudi Arabia, in the direction of which Muslims must
face for performing the saiat.
Khadim Servant; some one in charge for maintenance ora mosque.

khatib Orator or speaker; especially that delivered in the salat of

Jumu'a.
Khutba A speeeh or sermon. Usually the term is used to refer to the
speech delivered in the sola! of Jumu'a.
Kulukh Absorbent materials for purification from excreta; the act for it.

Lailatul Qadr The night of power; The significant night as described in Surah
AI-Qadr 97, Mecca (25), and Al'_"_"_5_,
~~ _
madrasah The school for religious education in Tslam.

Maghrih The obligatory sa/at performed immediately after the dusk.

Mahram Relation with whom marriage is permanently forbidden (e.g.,

~~~~~~~~,_"tl_,_,_"~b_,_o_m_,,,_'_O"_'_oc_.J_, .
makruh Prohibition. 1l has basically two categories, moderate prohibitiou
(makruh-i-ranjihQ
Maktab Library; usually means small institution for preliminary religious
education within a mosque.
Malaika The attendant of Allah, who perfomls different duties; somewhat
similar to 'angels' iu Christian belief.
Maqsura Enclosure~ near the mihrab to protect the ruler in a mosque.

Masjid Place of sijdah or proi>tration; a mosque

Mayet The deceased

Mazar The graveyard usually of Muslim saints.

 Appendices A.l-lff

Mihrab A recess in the ma,\jid or mosque that indicates the direction of

salat.
Minaret A tall, usually slender tower or turret connected to a mosque.

Muadhain The pen;on who performs the duty of adhan.

Mu,wfir khrma Lodging place for travelers.

Musafirs Traveler; In terms of shariah any traveler who travels at least 48

miles.
musalli Perlbnner of salat

mutaqij The performer of iliqaj'

Nafl Optional

Qatar Row in ajamaat for sa/al.

Qibfa The holy Kaba in Mecca, in the direction of which Muslims

________ m_"_'_'_'_~_,_fo_r
eerforming_m_'_"_' _
Qur'an The Holy revelation from Allah on Prophet Muhammad (S).

riwak Portico or cloisters around a courtyard; tent-flap.

sahn Courtyard

Salat The particular type of Islamic prayer.

.I'hariah Islamic law

Sunnah the examples of the Prophet's life what he said, did,

implemented, how he implemented
sunnal-i-muaqada ---------------
The category of 'amat which is performed consistently by the
Prophet (S) and his companions (R), almost obligotary likc
wajib.
Surah A chapter in the Holy Quran.

Tablig Reach the mess3ge of lslam to the people,

Taharat The acts of purification as a religious rite.

Takbir To pronounce the greatness (of AIIah); the utterance (like,

Allahu Akbar- 'AlIah is Great' etc.) to conduct the change of
every posture in the salat.
Thana Police station.

Wajib Which is considered as obligatory. Far} 3nd wa}ih are almost

________ sYJ1onym_"_"_,_. _
Waqf Endowmcnt ofpropcrtics, possessions etc, for the cause of
Islam.
Waql Time; usuaIly uscd to mean the time limit for ~'alat as dictated by
sariah.
wazu The rite of purification as an obligatory pre-condition of salal

Wazu khana TIc place to perform wazu.

 Appendices A.I-IV

Yalim khana The institution to provide to the orphans.

Zenana The women.

Zila Administrative regions or districts of Bangladesh,

References

A.I-I. Gibb, 11,A. R. and Kramers, J. H., Shorter Encyclopaedia of Islam, E.J. Brill,
Leiden, Netherlands, 1961.
A.I-2. Oxford Talking Dictionary. The Leaming Company, Inc., UK, 1998.
A.l-3. Hillengrand, Robert h'!amic Architecture, Formfum:tion and meaninf:.
Edinburgh, Edinburgh University Press, 1994.
A.1-4. The Alim For Windows, Shahid N Shah, Computer CD Version, Release 4.5,
ISL Software Corpomtion, USA, 1996.
A.l-5. Al-Qur'anul Karim, Computer CD, Version 6.31, Sakhr Software, 1996.
A.I-6, Fleming, John; Honour, Hugh and Pevsner, Nikolaus; The Penguin Dictionary
of Architee/ure; 4'" Ed" Penguine Books Ltd., UK, 1991.
A.I-7. Thanuvi, Maolana Ashraf Ali, (translation: Faridpuri, Maolana Shamsul
Haque), Beheshti leor, Vol. 1, Emdadia Library, Dhaka, 1990.
 ApfJf'1ldj~, "'.1-'

A.2.1 Baitul Mukorrum Mosque

•
 •.•....-- . ApJX'ndlc~ A.2.1l

•
A.2.2 Dilkushn Mosque
,I
•
-~, "

,
J. Stair to lb<: fin! ~ _ J
"'
~

~. FOI:>oIlc: f",,,•• tioo 6.Watotbo<ly •• landacal'O <Icmml

.-
•

s. 1_ KIta""
RlmI
- .,-
•
 Appendices .4..2-111

A.2.3 North Shabjahan.pur.Soulh Khilgaon Jhecl Mosque

., r""n. frnrn tb< ",Ilvab S. Mi~",b from tb< Rl.IlJI amy

...t••.•
6.1>I1~"'b••••• frnrn tb< oouth • 7. \\'jnclow. in!";'" V><'O' t. Sliff'S to lot lIoor
 Ap~ndic('.f A.l-W

,,

,
-~.
~,J>(i",barvicwtd from _,I>-

""
.:.
10. H"", I{I",,,,,:Snt
""
la
& •••.• 11. Toil •••• ith low 1'"'1

, .
,
''"
•, .

12. Toikl • Ooo<-up vkw of tho pon, pitd>er Il. 1•• noor ••'<11 ••.• 11
".

...'

I~. Urinal ••••••••PIll IS. S.c, u.pUlf; of....,. •• 110. 16.Sore~C<I'~ of iho<I.
M""_ V.rtle:al rock ••

• -----~--------'._-_ .
 ApJX'ndirn A.l. V

.- .._-- -------------------------
L A.2.4 KakrnilMosqur

6. CwtomUed lO'I'pan

-~ ------------------- -
 ",0,_-
, f A.2.5 Suet Centrel Mosque
---0'

,
,
•
, -
IJ. EDtry In the _ ~

IJ'-- .

ie..~
Ii~.
.
v"","
.....••.••.
_.-'"
rmm """"-" 6. Slain t~ h, fIror

I~. r:mry 10 _in pnya hili from V<ntldah 9. A I'-"'<h in r"'l fIror. I oconty ~
.J
•
. -- -_.
.•... Appe"djcr~A.l.I'JI

10. h""",mlc """, or tbo inlrrior

•
IS. II"", KIoa""

• •
 •
A.2.6
-- ~ .
ApJX"ndicrs A..l- VIf/

I ~ •
J. £mriar ••'fndow closc.••••

.JI

r,
•

• •
,
 . .- ApIN"di«.s A.]-IX

I
--~
•

~. Com<rof tho ,-..-4ab

,
I

..•
"- . , -,.,

14, lIoIlom .;"'" of tbc dome over mtrazI<C IDbby f

'.
,
 Ap~"djCf.".JA.l_X

A.2.7 PWD Jami Mosque

•

I J. ser.icc bk><k" _"'.!<It Or"","""'lU<

. S.IJII.r<th."., Mimbar f""" main <""y 6, Comer of tbr interior IIalI

• •
 •
APJK'ndi~ A.l-XI

-
•

9, V••••••of ,lit <10m<from iIltcrior 'l'""<'

-
10, \ ••••••1'KIIIb from __ 12. Ealt<m ••.•II of"",!n
~"
J'II1Il"T I

.,

I]. Sat for 111= IS. 'Ilz:o Kkl"" under fOOfin

tb<~bIoc:k
 Ap~" cl'3" A. l-XlI
.- . "

•
A.2.S Nev.' Markel Bailul AmllIl Mosque:

•
•
•
 -
.• A.l.XIII
Ap~"d',ct"~

1$. Url •• 1s -----

•
 • •• '---y,
I
A~lldlct"S A.l.X/I'

•
A.2.9 Lnlbag Qilla Mosque

,
•
 -
•.••• _.•
•. ApprndiCf.".J A.l-XV

,- f A.'l.ll Gulshllll Central Mosque

,•

•
1
 ApP""dict!ll A.l_X!'!

A.2.13 Vorari Ultarpara Mosque

"

".
-~
. -..,....,.
~ .•..._-
O' ,

l. Frnntal Emy
•
~ -.

~l'l
, .•
.. -~
~-,~
. , "
- •
•
•
'~

:t • . • I - ••• •••
"
"

r ,
•
• -• -. •

~
-.. - ~- •
, .- •
~
 Ap~lldlC<'sA.]-XVll

,
, 9. MUIObar 1(\. Inlmo. of lhc ""')tt room

II. Intrrior of tbr 1ft)"" room

I
12. 1l1l<rior of the pr:I) .••. room

•
 t:'" ~ ..•
ApP""dicc:r A.]-}I1'lI/

..I
--------------------------
S. Tube well- alternative source of WIOltl".

•
, Appendices A.l.XIX

>
:: ,0', ... -
-,-

",,'-"'!'"i.'. teo .~ "_.,t.• •

~~."-:'~ ==-flh~"-'i=::
~.-.••.
~l-
....",.
-
~~,.:..
,.
,"- -
•

'.,:• "•
~,!,. ,')>j ,.,,.. '.' ' j

..
•.•.~I~
- _......... ..
~
- , "

. ~-'l,L_'-; "'
. <' '" - "I

.."' .. _. j . " -., - '.'

..
--.
'

, -. , , , -};:-. ~ ' .',.

'
'
.•
"
.;-1
,."'.,&
- ~.
. '\t~_ .
-,' .;
.--~"
...
'~-'

• •• • ," . .. _, 6 Ablution facilities are pro,-,dell from !he pond. -,

 •

,
-_ ..•..•
•• ---- .• """ Appc!dlcn A.1-XX

, 21 ,'\;;,~ ---;'

~. Di.!lIII\ ,-jC'" iiltro>. the hug. pond ~l the east

",

,
!iI. The interior view "r!be mosque.
•

-,

6 Ablution fDcilitiC! ore provided from \be pond .

•
 •

Ap/Nndlcn A.I-XXl

1A.2.16Mosque of J\bdnl'a-I-Ro'hmllnlll Yunhlll, RiliiiUnlD:. Chillagong 1

, -- - 'IIJ
.'
,
~-
-
-" ,'-'-r-"',
", ' , .' "'1F('.
• ":.'1'

T
•

'--

4, Int..,;or view oflbe mosque.

!

-,

,
S. Int.rior view. mlhrab, mimbar, wlndow eiC.

•
 •

-- ApJX'ndict.":J A.l.XXIJ

A.2.17 Baroghunlll Jaml Mo~que,Cha'ndrilghonn, Rlng.matl,'

l

•
."
•••••••
)
,
'\
I

•
•

•
.6. Inlerior vi ••••.showing {he ,,;ndows. 7. 1nloriar view """wing tIM:mlh,."b. ~ _ •

o
 •

,
.- ApJX'tldic<':f A.].XXJIJ

•
,A.2.18 KAFCO JlI.nll MQ~ AnOWJlrB, Chiltll.gong -- 1

2, En1nnCe in east •••• f~.

3. t:altrm f~. 4. High.,,;OOow, from out .ide.

7. Viow of the dorrIl' from bonom.

I
 •
Appo1dlces A.]-XX71'
)
A.2.19 JlImlll! uI Fal.h, Ou mplIrll, Chlt1ogong.

1. Entmlce from (he SOIlIhemprmli!l('.

--- 2. N01Ibem f~ •.

6. Me.u.anine floonl the ••.• tern .id(,of mosque. 1

"'= ".•.11.
11.Mlhmb in
--- 8. W.1ef lank for Wa:u,
 Appn!dires A.}-XXJ'

A.2.20 ,\nd.-r QJIlu Jllnll ;\Iosqu~,'\ndllr Qma~ Chltlll~ong.-

.."....-
•
•

B. Minrob IIId mimba' .. 9, Window .bowing thic~ wol1. _

 Ap~ndit= A.2-XXl'1

."

5. Upper panion of !he minattl.

6. fulcmion ill \he ground floor.

•
",
 "

Appnldicv; A.l.XXVfl
')
A.2.22 Mosqut of Shah Shujll: ;\IU-RhIlIIUIl, ComJlla.
,

,.
I. A.lUl ,.,.". of the mosque. 2. Entrance to the mosque.

'3. 0""" .'jew oftb< enlranCe. 4.Wnltmr~d •.

 • Ap~lldlct"S A.2-XXVIll

.\.2.23 Mosque ollhr Ma:'Qr Complei of HQdrQt Shah Jalfll (R), S)"lhet
-- -- ---- - ----

L Pananunic VI.'" of tho "",:or romplex .howing tb. mosque II the len .id •.

5. Arcl>cd niche in 1IIe "",II.

,,
,6. DiITem>I.tyk in OXlnIskm._? Mlh",b in old p:ut. now I niche .• 8. Types ofnicbes in ••..•U•. -.J
•
 - .-

.,

.'

"
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North Shahjahanpur-South Khilgaon Theel Mosque
FRIONT ELEVATION
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East Elevation

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Bakshi Bazaar Mosque

Plan
 Appendices A,3-iX

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 Appendices A.4-ll
Fig. A.4.2

Instruction to use
1. This ligure should be used with the table AA.1,
2. Take a photocopy ofthi, page and place it on a horizontal plane (non-magnetic) in sunlight.
3. Wilh a magnetic compass, orienl the page so t~ 0°/ 360. remain, at north.
4. Place a straight stick (say, a pencil) vertically at the center,
5, Mark lhe shadow on !he paper at the particular lime of the day to get the Wbla direction from Table A.4.1. f
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D'Y An Ie de rees clockwisefrom sh,d~N 10Qibla An Ie de ree, CIOtkwi", from shadow to Qlbla

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NO'iember
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December
D,y An Ie 0 rees\ ,lock.l"

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from sh,dow to Qib'"

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••
 > •,

--
Table 3.4.3. Number of mus:J1J1sattend!n!!. S:alllt and utilizinl! WlI7.Uand toilet facility
ServIce lor
Fair ZuhriJuma Asr Maldlrib "1m Salat Maghrib I ••
, ,
,;
~ ~ I~
-', " -: •• , g ,e • ;£ g ;2
" -:
~ .~ ~
~
,;
;f ]' E, - ~
~
•"
~
;'0
" ,,.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ N~ ~ ~ ~
Sund3X--- - 120 2 21' 25 311430 10 420

,,. " ,
6 360 30 10 120 21S 3114420 360 420

,,. " ,,
6
IMonda
'uesdDy
132 7
lOS 4
,
I 224 32
0 2,. 18 , 8 296 24
27S 36
7 448 64 8 348 J3 8 132 224
9 38 S J73 28 13 lOS 2,.
296 448
27S
348
J73
448 64
38
8

Wednesda 127 2 218 26 4 322 32 12 413 48 3SS 37 9 127 218 322 413 3SS 413 48
'""'"'
Frida)'
113 4
1114 4
3 2114 24
2 2004 198 , ,
3 313 28
42 287 21
II 441 56 7 342 24 II 113 2114
424 43 374 2219 11142004
313 441
287 424
342
374
441
424
56
43
7
S
,Snturd3y 136 6 2 222 22 6 300 37 12 416 S I 6 364 3UlO 136 222 3001416 364 416 SI
6
424 I
Avcrngc (rounded)
% with Saint (rounded) "
I 6
100 I 12 I '-l
Occupancy Paltern; Resldenlial Mosque Sab! Atrcndrn1t & ~rvlce
2500 User: Residential Mosque
................. ..- . • ~

,-
~ 2000 " ""
;; .,- • •
~
1500
-. -, I . -
..
0.-
~
o 1000 " '" -." " - " _._ .
-:; -
~ '00 ",
= .,-

I
o
Sunday Monday TuesdlIy Wednesday Thund:ly Frid:ty Saturday

I
<
.. - ts',
-+- Fajr --:- ~uu:' -- A~ -&- MlIghrib -++-Ishn • - "'-
Adh11les
•.•. •,
••••••••
-
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 - - ,.
, I

Tnble 3.4.6. Number of m u~llllls nltendin sllint lind utllizin W1U:Uand toilet raeilit •.

Fllir ZuhrfJuma _ Asr I

~aS:!!!ib
"'" -"
Sll13t

_:>t:
oS ~ ;:: ~
: = -
~.~.E " -
~ '= ..:; =
~ -
..!! .!:;, ..a E
" 3"
3 ~
"
Sundj;;'"
~-~
50309 65
~ ~ ~ ~
33 12 -IT ~~
28 8 ~ ,Mi" "
49 11 5~ J6
~ ~ ~"
SO
= =
N_
65
~ ::g
~ "
~ ~
0

"
,Monda
",,",
47 28 1 62
49228 64
32
33
20
13
##3 o 29 7
9
.g :gIOISS
74 ~ 9 57
33
9
7 47
49
62
64
58

"
7J
71
51 74
58

"
57
7J
71
74
49
47
48
II
10
9

*t-*-
" 8
10 83 42 8 61
WJ.bO :u
Wc:dnesdll 48 21 10 63 II 7
~rsda)' 51 18 7 94
28
43 22
"
ftJ7 oo
2
31 35 16 51 94
21 72
29 8
"
I"
8J
142
61
72
8J
142
42
63
8
21
fridaY 60249 "0 211 2S ~5 17 61 18 68 " 9
60 I 350 84 lJO 68 130 61 18
j;'>atunlav 62 26 11 90 60 18 82 60 19 135 ~ 62 I 90
16167 321 8 I"
"' 67 I" 68 16
A vern 'C rounded
% with SahlI (rounded)
101
100 +t-H-
S3 13
Oceupllncy Patlno: Resldentlal Mosque Slllal AUendllnt & Suvlce
400 Us~r: Rl"I[d~nlllll Mo~que
lSO •••••••••••••••••••••• _ ••••••••••••••• 0" ••••••••••••••

~::m,--~J
~ 300 ....................- ..
::t
250 ............... __ - ...........••..• - - .
=
~ 200
"
o 150
~ 100 '0

I
SO
o
Sunday

-+- Fnjr
Mond.3y Tucsdny

--7:~ ....•...
Wedncsd3y Thursd:iy

As[ ...•... Maghrib

Friday

-K-lshll
SllturollY

I
1:1=
0""-'_
=I=J'1" t,
w.... r •• 1c< ~
A<1Mtl.,. :::

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~
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~ ,
"
 ,

Table 3.4.12 Number of musallls attendln

'.
~llillt lind utlll7.ln \VazlI and toilet radllt','

FlIjr l Z""/I=,1 I I I
iec for

~h# -I'
A" Mnllhrib I~ha SlIllIt MllJdlrib

- " " -I = I" - , " - , " -

~;a'''=..!3
'"
Vl ,..
;> 0
l- '" .".
<Il;>
~::~
0 "
"'....
r3:=~
:- 0
it:=..!3
•• ".
en...!- 0 "
Vl •••.
="
~::.~.E= •. ~
:> •..•
.0 "
~
- ,
::>::>
N..... .::! ""
...•..'"
'0
l!
~'"
.!!
":>
til....
03 "
._
0
I-
ISund:! 31 2 0 52 9 5 48 15 8 75 5 1 14 18 12 31 52 48 75 74 75 5 I
Mondn)' 28 0 0 1# 12 8 53 18 2 8) 5 1 78 20 13 28 56 53 83 78 83 5 I
ITucsda 35 I I SS 7 3 44 12 5 87 2 0 73 15 5 JS 55 44 87 73 87 2 0
Wcdne:sd3y 30 0 0 ~ 8 2 52 9 3 89 3 0 70 22 16 30 58 52 89 70 89 3 0
IThunda 36 0 0 53 13 6 50 10 4 93 4 0 73 17 9 36 53 50 93 73 93 4 0
Frida 36 I 0 143 40 28 60 17 6 96 5 2 79 18 7 36 143 60 96 79 96 5 2
SlIlUrdllV 33 I I 62 12~ 46 11 7 83 2 0 75 13 9 331 62 46 83 75 83 2 0
Avcrn c 86.57 3.71 0.57
% WilhSlll3t(ll)unded) 100 41 1
160 O<:cupllncy Pattern: Resldenlial Mo~que _ Salal AUendanl & Service
User: Resldenl131 J\1Mque
140, ..... -_ ..•..•.••••• - .••.••..••..••.••.••...• " •..
::• 120 '" , l
I
...••• -_ .............•.•...•.•.......•.........

~':m
, '00
~IOO _._ _. ...
=
~ 80 .-...........................
...- ..-
1 ~ . .
~ 40 - ........•.....
~
'00
'
, ,._.
20 .•...........•...............•.•........
-....•.•............ ""

I
o
Sund:!.y

-+- Fajr
Mond:ty

--- f::' -...

Tuesday W~y

Asr
Thursd:ly

--e- Mnghrib
Friday Saturday

-H- Islm I ~:tU ~ w_

• ,
T",1n
I
•
~

t
,
AcllvlllH
•

'.
~

f} 'l:? •
I
 ,
"
•
Tobie 3.4.13 .sumber or musollis oUendin" ~olot ond utilizim! WOln ond toilet racllllv
,
Fajr Zuhrl1llffil1 1m Mo"hrib _ I~ha Salat
, , ,
~-
13 ~" .~
Jl~
-
7
~ "• " ,::
~ ~ ~ I~ ~
]
3
"
8 •• " ::
~ ~
6 •~ .,
]

4
;Z ~ E
"
N~
7 ,<•" tG
>"
8
-
~
6 8
~.
0• 0
-l'"
"

]
6

,-
6
7
7
4
10
9 ,
6 6 I

,
)
6
7
7
4
10
9 ,
6 10
9
0
0
0
0

4
9
8 ,
4 7
7 ,
8

,,
4
9
8
4 7
, I 7 ,
8 7
7
0
0
0
0
~ ,- 20
6
4
6
8
9 I
7
6 6
20 4
6 9
8 7
6
8
9
0
0
0
0
Average (rounded) 8 0 0
% wilh Salat (rounded) I 100 0 0 •
Occupancy Pattern: Rr'lldentlol Mo~quc
25 •
,; 20 .....................................................
";
-.
'0 10
o
7.. 5
15
f
o
Sunday MondlIy TuCSlby Wednesday Thund3y Friday S4lurd.:ly
,
I --+=- Flljr -;
.• ,
Zuhrl
Juma
...•... Asr -&- Moghrib ""*"" l~hll I
• •
•
..,:t'i
,~
 , ,
•
Table 3.4.16.a Number of mn~allls attendint!: salat and utillz[nt!: wazn and toilet facility

Fair ZuhrlJuma A" Macl1rib Ishn Salat

;-, - , "I - , " - , "

,;:; il ::: .!1 03:::
<13te"3t~<13tB
<Il <Il '-
,;:;
<Il
03:::
•.
_<!u
.!1
",,,..0
<Il :;>
03 :::
•••
1::<1
.l:; ..c:
",::l::l"l_
e ... ~"
L>....!:;!;....• O<;.i:;
I .• "'
~ ~
" ~
.,
]

Sunda~ 25 400 275 80 320 200 45 260 180 65 1Q.28 15 25 400 320 260 50 26Q 180 os
Monda)' 14 365 270 73 300 180 45 260 175 42 "5i30 14 14 365 300 260 52 26Q 17S 42
380 250 75 280 150 40 230 162 45 ~ 1ij-13 16 380 280 230 40 162
Tuesda'
Wedne:>da)'j
16
19 340 210 60 282 140 42 240 160 60 ~ 22 14 19 340 282 240 50
230
24<1 16Q "
6Q
Thuma' 13 310 180 56 190 140 40 180 125 61 30 15 8 13 310 190 180~ 180 125 61
Frida 8 560 310 120 100 75 21 200 135 60 35 15 10 8 560 100 200 35 200 135 6Q
Samrda 10 200 150150 160 1401551180 112155 50 33119 10 I 200 160 180 50
Averngc (rounded)
% with Salal (rounded)
-
180
221
100
112
~
150
68
"
~

"
25
Occupan9' Pattern: R~ldential Mosque Salal Allcndant & Service
600 User: Residenllal !'-losque

;
110 ,
~ 500
a,
~':~n
'00
400

-
~ 300
co: 200 -- .- I
'00
Z 100 "0

o
Sund!ly Monday Tu~y Wedn=lny Thund:Jy Friday Salurd:ty
~:1=1 --II I',.
- --.-
2\ ~

it
I -- Fajr -- ~~ -.- Asr --e- Maghrib """*"" Isha I .'
-
, , I~
w_
ACllvlties
T••1d 1 I~
~

,
 AppcndicesA,5.}

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