PENENTUAN BATAS MASJID DALAM MAZHAB SHĀFIʿĪ: IMPLIKASINYA TERHADAP HUKUM IBADAT KHUSUS DAN PENGURUSAN BANGUNAN MASJID DI MALAYSIA

Determining The Spatial Boundaries of Mosques in The Shāfiʿī School Perspective: Implications for Specific Worship Rulings and Mosque Building Management in Malaysia

Abstract

The contemporary trend of mosque architecture in Malaysia, featuring multi-functional complex designs, has created confusion among the public and mosque management committees. Uncertainty in defining the actual boundaries legally classified as a “mosque” carries direct implications for the validity and procedures of daily worship. This article analyses the determination of the status and spatial boundaries of worship spaces based on the fiqh framework of the Shāfiʿī school. Using document analysis of classical (turāth) fiqh, contemporary fatwas, and current facility management practices, the study focuses on several key aspects. It examines the role of the waqif’s declaration and ʿurf (local wisdom) in distinguishing mosque areas from non-mosque spaces, alongside the strict prohibition against reclassifying endowed mosque areas for commercial or worldly purposes. It also explores the legal implications arising from differing spatial classifications and their impact on the conditions of iqtidāʾ (following the imam) for congregants situated outside the mosque boundary. The study concludes that a sound understanding of fiqh principles is essential to prevent violations of waqf trust, breaches of mosque sanctities, and the invalidity of congregational prayers. It further recommends considering minority (marjūḥ) opinions within the Shāfiʿī school to ease practical difficulties and assist religious authorities in formulating clear operational guidelines for gazetting and delineating mosque spaces.