A mosque in Jakarta, Indonesia displays beautiful geometric patterns and calligraphy but contains no images of Allah, prophets, or angels.

Which Islamic belief about the nature of God best explains why figurative images are avoided in mosque decoration?

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Question

A mosque in Jakarta, Indonesia displays beautiful geometric patterns and calligraphy but contains no images of Allah, prophets, or angels.

Which Islamic belief about the nature of God best explains why figurative images are avoided in mosque decoration?

Accepted Answer

Depicting God or holy figures could lead to idol worship, which contradicts Tawhid — Award 1 mark for linking the prohibition on images to the protection of Tawhid. A is incorrect — the reason is theological, not aesthetic. C is incorrect — visual art is not entirely banned, only figurative religious images. D is incorrect — patterns are decorative, not believed to have spiritual power.

Answer

Depicting God or holy figures could lead to idol worship, which contradicts Tawhid

Answer

Islamic teaching states that geometric patterns have spiritual power

Answer

The Prophet Muhammad specifically banned all forms of visual art

Answer

Muslims believe that only calligraphy is beautiful enough to honour God

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