Djamaâ El-Djazair: A Year of Religious, Scientific, and Historical Endeavors Rooted in National Identity

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | February 15th, 2025 —Djamaâ El-Djazair stands as an unshakable testament to Algeria’s unwavering commitment to its spiritual and civilizational identity. It is here, on the heights of Mohammedia, that the grand mosque rose to reclaim a historical narrative once distorted by colonial ambitions. The dream of Cardinal Lavigerie—who sought to erase Algeria’s Islamic roots and impose foreign dogma—was ultimately buried beneath the blood of martyrs who restored the land to its rightful people. Today, where once a church symbolized colonial hegemony, a towering minaret now echoes the call to prayer, and the crescent proudly eclipses the cross.

A year ago, in a moment of profound historical significance, Djamaâ El-Djazair welcomed worshippers for its inaugural Friday prayer, an event that rekindled national pride in a monumental achievement embodying both religious and national unity. Now, a year later, this architectural marvel has evolved beyond its aesthetic and touristic allure—it has become an intellectual powerhouse, a hub of moderate Islamic thought, and a formidable soft power in the diplomatic sphere. Its influence extends beyond Algeria’s borders, standing as an ambassador of the nation’s religious heritage inspired by the ideals of the November Revolution.

A Pillar of Modernity, A Bastion of Moderate Thought

On Thursday, 14 Sha’ban 1446 AH, Djamaâ El-Djazair commemorated its first anniversary in an atmosphere imbued with spiritual reverence and national pride. The event drew distinguished figures from across Algeria and the world, as well as visitors from various provinces eager to witness this historic milestone. A special symposium retracing the mosque’s journey left attendees deeply moved by the profound symbolism and intellectual value of this sacred edifice.

A striking highlight of the celebration was an innovative augmented reality exhibition at the mosque’s cultural center. Designed specifically for this occasion, the experience transported visitors through a digital recreation of Mohammedia’s history, tracing its transformation from a colonial outpost into the site of Africa’s largest and the world’s third-largest mosque. The immersive journey evoked a sense of traveling through time, allowing guests to witness the evolution of a neighborhood that once bore the name “Lavigerie,” a stark reminder of colonial attempts to sever Algeria’s connection to its Islamic heritage.

Nearby, an Islamic fine arts exhibition adorned the cultural center’s gallery with masterfully crafted calligraphic works and intricately designed architectural sculptures, harmonizing traditional Islamic ornamentation with modern artistic expression.

In another wing of the commemoration, Djamaâ El-Djazair reaffirmed its status as a beacon of knowledge through an academic exhibition organized by the Higher School of Islamic Sciences, “Dar Al-Qur’an.” The exhibition showcased the institution’s diverse academic disciplines alongside the latest publications by its esteemed scholars, addressing contemporary religious and intellectual issues. More than a simple informational space, this exhibition embodied the mosque’s vision of serving as a bastion of scholarly research and a training ground for the next generation of religious scholars and thinkers.

A Year of Religious, Historical, and Cultural Eminence

Since its grand inauguration a year ago, Djamaâ El-Djazair has transcended its role as a place of worship, emerging as a dynamic cultural and intellectual center dedicated to serving society and promoting values of tolerance, openness, and knowledge. Over the past year, the mosque has hosted an array of major religious, historical, and cultural events, reinforcing its status as a pillar of national identity and intellectual advancement.

Among the most significant commemorations held within its grand halls was the 70th anniversary of the Algerian War of Independence. The event paid homage to the spirit of unity and sacrifice that defined the revolution, offering a solemn reflection on Algeria’s struggle for freedom. Additionally, Djamaâ El-Djazair became the venue for the largest national gathering of Algerian scholars—both in religious and scientific fields—including esteemed figures such as Professor Belkacem Haba, whose contributions to science continue to inspire national pride.

A Hub for Intellectual Discourse and Cultural Exchange

The mosque’s cultural center has been at the forefront of hosting pivotal academic and intellectual events, further cementing Djamaâ El-Djazair’s reputation as a beacon of knowledge. Among its most distinguished forums was the symposium on Scientific Miracles in the Holy Quran, led by Professor Ahmed Bousta, which explored the intersection of faith and scientific discovery. Another landmark event was the national conference dedicated to Sheikh Said Ben Belhaj Sharifi and Sheikh Addoun, illuminating their invaluable efforts in preserving Algeria’s religious and cultural heritage.

Beyond academic discourse, the mosque witnessed extraordinary moments, such as the presentation of a rare Quranic manuscript written on a single sheet of paper, gifted to the Grand Imam of Djamaâ El-Djazair. The mosque has also remained a focal point for religious gatherings, spiritual lectures, and dhikr sessions, particularly during significant Islamic occasions and national holidays.

Commitment to Environmental and Humanitarian Initiatives

Djamaâ El-Djazair has not confined its influence to intellectual and spiritual endeavors; it has also taken active steps in environmental and humanitarian causes. The mosque has spearheaded blood donation drives, afforestation campaigns, and educational programs aimed at fostering environmental awareness. Through specialized forums, experts have engaged the public in discussions on ecological balance and the importance of renewable energy in safeguarding natural resources for future generations.

The Revival of Endowed Libraries: A Legacy Reborn

A milestone event in Algeria’s intellectual history unfolded on April 16, 2024, in Constantine, where the legacy of knowledge and scholarship was rekindled. In a moment of profound historical significance, Sheikh Mamoun Al-Qasimi, the Grand Imam of Djamaâ El-Djazair, presided over the formal transfer of the library of Sheikh Abdelhamid Ben Badis—endowed by his family—to the mosque. This invaluable collection, a symbol of Algeria’s rich scholarly heritage, now finds its rightful place within the walls of Djamaâ El-Djazair, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

In addition to Ben Badis’ priceless library, the mosque has received several other major endowed collections, including the library of Dr. Hassan Mouhoubi and the “Treasure Library” of Dr. Suleiman Essid, which comprises over 13,000 rare books, manuscripts, and periodicals. Furthermore, author and diplomat Othman Saadi’s daughter, Maha Saadi Achour, has pledged her father’s esteemed personal library as a waqf (endowment) to the mosque, further enriching its growing repository of knowledge.

With each passing year, Djamaâ El-Djazair continues to assert itself as an unparalleled symbol of Algeria’s religious, scientific, and cultural revival. More than a landmark, it is a living institution—preserving heritage, fostering enlightenment, and inspiring future generations to uphold the values of faith, knowledge, and national identity.

Djamaâ El-Djazair: A Dream Realized After 132 Years of Colonial Rule

On the occasion of Djamaâ El-Djazair’s first anniversary, Dr. Abdelrahman Taibi, Deputy Assistant in Charge of Scientific Research and Doctoral Training at Dar Al-Quran, emphasized the mosque’s profound significance in Algeria’s post-independence history. Speaking to Echorouk, Dr. Taibi highlighted that this monumental project embodies the long-cherished dream of Algerians following 132 years of brutal French colonial rule. More than a place of worship, Djamaâ El-Djazair stands as an academic and cultural beacon, reinforcing Algeria’s religious and national identity while advocating a moderate and enlightened religious discourse through its vast network of scientific and cultural institutions.

According to Dr. Taibi, the mosque represents a comprehensive civilizational project encompassing academic and research institutions, most notably the Higher School of Islamic Sciences – Dar Al-Quran, the Research Center for Civilizational Dialogue and Religious Sciences, the Museum of Islamic Civilization, and the Scientific Council. These institutions, alongside other dedicated spaces, seek to integrate Algeria’s religious and cultural landscape through a well-structured academic vision that strengthens the connection between faith and knowledge.

A Modern and Inclusive Religious Discourse

Throughout its inaugural year, Djamaâ El-Djazair has hosted numerous scientific conferences, specialized workshops, and thematic symposiums aligned with national and religious occasions. The Higher School of Islamic Sciences – Dar Al-Quran welcomed prominent scholars of international renown, who delivered both in-person and virtual lectures, fostering academic research and strengthening cooperation with global research institutions. This initiative aims to produce academically proficient graduates who are deeply rooted in Algeria’s religious and cultural identity while staying attuned to contemporary intellectual advancements.

Dr. Taibi further elaborated on the academic diversity offered by Dar Al-Quran, which provides 12 specialized fields across six academic branches, covering Islamic Sciences, Islamic Architecture, Psychology, Mathematics, Urban Planning, and Islamic Finance. The institution also places strong emphasis on Algeria’s African intellectual legacy, recognizing the far-reaching influence of Algerian scholars across the continent. Moreover, it has introduced modern disciplines such as Islamic Financial Markets, Islamic Accounting, and Financial Technology and Banking, aligning with Algeria’s evolving economic and social needs.

A National and Global Intellectual Hub

Under the joint supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Djamaâ El-Djazair aspires to establish a religious discourse that is both moderate and scholarly, embracing intellectual openness while preserving Algeria’s foundational values. The mosque’s role extends beyond religious guidance—it aims to reaffirm Algeria’s status as a leading scientific and religious center within the Islamic world. This vision is particularly significant given Algeria’s enduring struggle to reclaim its identity following the colonial era’s systematic efforts to erase its cultural and religious heritage.

Djamaâ El-Djazair: Forging a New Generation of Thinkers and Scholars

Dr. Salah Belaïd, President of the High Council of the Arabic Language, emphasized that Djamaâ El-Djazair embodies the nation’s identity and serves as a fundamental reference for researchers. In an interview with Echorouk, he asserted that this landmark reflects Algeria’s steadfast commitment to its spiritual and cultural values amid contemporary intellectual challenges.

According to Dr. Belaïd, the mosque represents a synthesis of tradition and modernity, as demonstrated by the high-level supervision and meticulous follow-up by senior officials throughout its development. The architectural masterpiece has gained international recognition, ranking among the world’s most remarkable cultural and religious landmarks. Djamaâ El-Djazair, he stressed, is reshaping Algeria’s religious and cultural landscape—standing as a response to colonial-era attempts to erase national identity through Christianization and missionary projects. Yet, as he noted, Algerians have remained loyal to their religious and cultural heritage, a devotion symbolically reaffirmed through the mosque’s naming as Al-Muhammadiya, a clear tribute to the nation’s deep-rooted Islamic values.

Nurturing Intellectual and Scientific Leadership

Beyond its architectural splendor, Djamaâ El-Djazair is a dynamic intellectual hub, home to the National Higher School of Islamic Sciences and Dar Al-Quran. Dr. Belaïd underscored that these institutions aim to cultivate a new generation of scholars and thinkers who integrate Islamic jurisprudence with modern sciences. This initiative is grounded in an authentic epistemological vision that not only aligns with contemporary transformations but also reinforces principles of tolerance, moderation, and intellectual balance.

He further explained that the school’s mission extends beyond producing university professors; it aspires to shape visionary intellectual leaders capable of serving as a national reference in thought and academia. These future scholars will be instrumental in confronting cultural and ideological challenges while safeguarding Algeria’s unique identity. Notably, the completion of Qur’anic memorization is a fundamental requirement for graduation, ensuring a comprehensive integration of religious education with academic training. This synergy, Dr. Belaïd noted, reflects Algeria’s aspirations for a new intellectual renaissance rooted in its historical and cultural identity.

Reviving the Legacy of Algeria’s Historic Intellectual Centers

Echoing this sentiment, religious scholar and media figure Abdelrachid Boubekri highlighted that Djamaâ El-Djazair has become a leading scientific institution, restoring Algeria’s pioneering role in education and knowledge production. He noted that this role had been systematically undermined during colonial rule but is now being revitalized through this monumental project.

According to Boubekri, the mosque brings together the intellectual spirit that once thrived in Algeria’s historic Zawiyas and Qur’anic schools, which historically served as centers of knowledge and enlightenment. Cities such as Béjaïa, Tlemcen, and Mazouna were once influential hubs of Islamic scholarship before being dismantled due to colonial policies. Djamaâ El-Djazair, he asserted, stands as a modern extension of these scholarly traditions, incorporating their legacy into a contemporary framework that extends beyond worship to embrace civilization-building and academic excellence.

Boubekri also emphasized that Djamaâ El-Djazair’s impact is not confined to Algeria but will resonate across Africa and the broader Islamic world. He recalled that attempts by Cardinal Lavigerie to impose Christianization upon Algeria ultimately failed, and in a historical twist, the very location once targeted for missionary activities now bears the name Al-Muhammadiya. This, he noted, serves as a profound historical response to French colonial efforts to sever Algeria from its Islamic roots.

Djamaâ El-Djazair is no mere architectural wonder—it is a living, breathing institution, a symbol of Algeria’s enduring spiritual and intellectual legacy. As it enters its second year, it continues to stand as a lighthouse of faith, knowledge, and national identity, illuminating Algeria’s path toward a future deeply rooted in its glorious past.

 

Translated from: 

https://www.echoroukonline.com/%d8%ac%d8%a7%d9%85%d8%b9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%ac%d8%b2%d8%a7%d8%a6%d8%b1-%d9%82%d9%84%d8%b9%d8%a9-%d8%b1%d9%88%d8%ad%d9%8a%d9%91%d8%a9-%d9%88%d8%a5%d8%b4%d8%b9%d8%a7%d8%b9-%d8%ad%d8%b6%d8%a7%d8%b1

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