Mosque and loud speaker

Mosque and loud speaker

From Pikiran Rakyat

Instruction No. Kep/D/101/1078 dated June, 17, 1978, issued by
the Directorate General of Islamic Religion of the Ministry of
Religious Affairs, regulates the use of loud speakers in mosques,
mushola, and langgar.

In line with this instruction, the religious affairs office in
the Purworejo Regency issued Instruction No. MK. 27/3-d/72/87
dated April 6, 1987, which contains the following guidelines:

* The voice channeled through loudspeakers is for the adzan
(call to prayer), which tells Moslems it is time for sholat
(prayer).

* Koran reciting and pre-dawn sermons are meant only for the
jemaat (congregation) inside the places of worship and not for
the entire, surrounding community.

* The volume of the loudspeakers must be set in such a way
that it produces nice, pleasant sounds and so avoids unpleasant
noise.

* The Koran reciter should have a melodic voice.

* During Ramadhan (fasting month) loudspeakers, positioned
outward, can be used for one hour, 8.30-9.30 p.m. for tadarrus
(announcements).

* On the eve of Idul Fitri/Idul Adha (takbiran), loudspeakers
can be turned outwards.

Discipline as well as a good understanding of these
instructions, are essential, as well as practical, for living in
our complex society.

SUKARYAN

Banjar, West Java