The masjid is the heart of Islamic life. It is the place where faith is nurtured, communities are built, and the soul finds peace in the remembrance of Allah. Yet in today’s fast-paced world, the masjid has become one of the most neglected spaces in the lives of many Muslims. For some, it is visited only on Fridays, Ramadan nights, or special occasions while for others, it has become almost forgotten altogether.
THE ROLE OF THE MASJID IN ISLAM
From the earliest days of Islam, the masjid was more than just a place of prayer. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ built the first masjid in Madinah, Masjid Quba, and soon after, Masjid Nabawi. These spaces became centers of worship, education, consultation, and community welfare. They were the heartbeat of society where people prayed together, learned together, and supported one another.
In our times, however, many Muslims have confined the masjid to being only a place for prayer. The wider role of the masjid as a hub of guidance, knowledge, and unity has been diminished.
WHY THE MASJID IS FORGOTTEN
Several reasons contribute to this neglect. Busy lifestyles, long work hours, and digital distractions often keep believers away from the house of Allah. For others, comfort and convenience lead them to pray at home rather than making the effort to join the congregation. Over time, this distance creates a spiritual gap, weakening the connection to both the masjid and the community.
The Prophet ﷺ reminded us of the virtue of the masjid, saying:
“Whoever goes to the masjid morning and evening, Allah will prepare for him a place in Paradise for every morning and evening.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
Every visit to the masjid is a step closer to Jannah. Forgetting the masjid means forgetting an opportunity for immense reward.
THE MASJID AND THE HEART
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Seven will be shaded by Allah on the Day when there will be no shade but His… and a man whose heart is attached to the masjid.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
This hadith highlights that those who love the masjid and are drawn to it will be honored on the Day of Judgment. The masjid is not just a physical place; it is a spiritual anchor. A believer whose heart longs for the masjid shows deep love for Allah and His worship.
REVIVING OUR CONNECTION TO THE MASJID
Reviving the role of the masjid begins with individual effort. Making salah in congregation, attending weekly lectures, bringing our children to experience the house of Allah all of these help restore the masjid’s central role in our lives. Supporting the masjid with donations, volunteering, and maintaining its sanctity also strengthens the community.
The masjid should not be forgotten; it should be at the center of our daily lives. It is where faith is revived, where brothers and sisters meet, and where the mercy of Allah descends.
CONCLUSION
The masjid is the house of Allah, yet too often it is left empty, neglected, and forgotten. The believer who keeps a strong connection with the masjid is promised immense reward, peace in the heart, and closeness to Allah. To forget the masjid is to forget a vital part of our deen.
It is time we return to the masjid, not just occasionally, but consistently. Let us bring back the masjid into our lives and hearts, so that on the Day of Judgment, we are among those honored for their love of Allah’s house.
