Mosque Pulpit: Meaning, History and Importance
The pulpit is a structure with stairs where sermons are read in mosques. It is usually located on the right side of the mihrab and allows the imam to address the congregation from a high place. Pulpits are more than just a functional element, they are important examples of Islamic art and architecture.
Meaning of Pulpit:
The word pulpit is of Arabic origin and means “to rise”. This word was preferred because the pulpit is both a physically elevated structure and the imam is in a spiritually elevated position.
History of the Pulpit:
The first use of the pulpit was Hz. It dates back to the time of Muhammad. Hz. Muhammad placed a tree trunk in the Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina and read the sermons from this log. Over time, this log turned into a structure with stairs and was called pulpit.
Importance of Pulpit:
Pulpits are important in many ways, beyond just being a place where sermons are recited. Pulpits are an important symbol of the Islamic religion and culture. Additionally, it is an element that completes the architectural integrity of the mosque. The pulpits reveal the richness of Islamic art with the motifs and embroideries on them.
Structure of Pulpits:
Pulpits are usually made of wood or stone. The main body of the pulpit consists of a structure with stairs. There is a domed or pointed cone on the upper part of the pulpit. The body and cone of the pulpits are decorated with various motifs and embroideries.
Types of Pulpits:
Pulpits vary depending on the materials used, workmanship and the culture of the region where they are located. There are many historical pulpits from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods in Anatolia. These pulpits contain some of the finest examples of wood carving and tile art.
Protection of Pulpits:
Historical pulpits are important examples of Islamic art and architecture. Therefore, it is of great importance to preserve these pulpits and pass them on to future generations.
Interesting Facts About Pulpit:
The world’s oldest pulpit is located in the Great Mosque of Sana’a in Yemen.
The oldest pulpit in Turkey is located in the Ulu Mosque in Diyarbakır.
Verses, hadiths and the Prophet Muhammad are usually placed on the pulpits. Muhammad’s words are written.
Pulpits are found not only in mosques but also in some mausoleums and madrasahs.
Conclusion:
Pulpits are more than just a functional element, they are an important symbol of the Islamic religion and culture. Additionally, it is an element that completes the architectural integrity of the mosque. The pulpits reveal the richness of Islamic art with the motifs and embroideries on them.
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