Exploring Wood Carving Motifs: The Minbar of ULUL Albab Mosque

Abstract

Mosques hold significant reverence as places of worship for Muslims worldwide, serving as focal points for religious activities such as sermons and meetings. Each country exhibits distinct designs for mosque minbars, reflecting its cultural and ethnic diversity. Terengganu, a Malaysian state, showcases a plethora of unique and captivating carving motifs adorning its mosque minbars. This study aims to elucidate the carving motifs and their meanings on the minbar of the Ulul Albab Mosque in Terengganu. Employing qualitative research methodology, including interviews, observations, and analysis of primary and secondary sources, this research unveils the intricate details behind the wood carvings. The findings reveal that the minbar of the Ulul Albab Mosque in Terengganu encompasses various motifs inspired by flora and fauna, aiming to convey messages rooted in the pure values of Malay culture. These wood carvings serve as exemplars of Malay craftsmanship worthy of preservation. It is anticipated that this research will foster greater awareness among the public regarding the imperative of safeguarding cultural heritage, which epitomizes ethnic identity.