Cheraman Juma Masjid
Cheraman
Juma Masjid in India’s first Masjid. It is believed to be built in 628 AD at
the request of legendary ruler Cheraman Perumal. Legend has it that the king of Kodungallur, Cheraman
Perumal accepted Islam and travel to Madina to meet the Prophet Mohammad
(Salallahu Alahi Wasallam). He died on his way back and is now buried in
Salalah, Oman. Before dying, he instructed his travel companions to spread the
message of Islam in his home land.
A
group of Arabs led by Malik Bin Deenar and Malik Bin Habib arrived in North
Kerala, and constructed the Cheraman Juma Masjid at Kodungallur. This mosque is considered as the second
oldest mosque in the world to offer Juma’s prayers.
This
mosque is constructed during the life time of Muhammad, the bodies of some of
his original followers are said to be buried here. The original Hindu
architectural scheme of the mosque has been retained intact to a great extent,
though essential additions have been made over the year.
The
mosque has an ancient oil lamp which always burns and which is believed to be
more than a thousand years old. People
of all religions bring oil for the lamp as offering. This is one of the few
mosques in Kerala which allow entry for the people of other religions.
Cherman
Juma’s Masjid situated at the northern end of the Periyar River, about 50 KM
from Kochi, and about 30 km from Thrissur. Kodungallur has been the gateway for
Christianity, Judaism and Islam in India.
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