Seven Principles of Islamic Architecture

The principles of Islamic Architecture :

Divine Inspiration: Seven Principles of Islamic Architecture


Seven Principles of Islamic Architecture is an exhibition that aims to illustrate the intrinsic relationship between Muslims, their beliefs and how these manifest themselves in everyday architecture. Islam embodies a way of life and serves as a cohesive force among ethnically and culturally diverse peoples. There is no essential difference between spiritual and secular art in Islam, allowing the virtues of Islamic architecture to transcend mere form and function.

Each of the key beliefs explored; Tawhid (Unity), Ihtiram (Respect), Ikhlas (Sincerity), Iqtisad (Moderation/ Humility), Haya’ (Modesty), ‘Ilm (Pursuit of Knowledge), Dhikr (Remembrance), will contextualise and shed light on the visible and invisible nature of both the Islamic belief discussed and its corresponding architectural principle. Covering examples from across the globe - discussing their cosmic dimensions - this exhibition will highlight the long interrupted tradition of sacred and scientific knowledge that has gained Islamic architecture a well-deserved reputation of outstanding nobility.

Tawhid (Unity & Uniquity )- belief in the absolute Oneness of God

:Verily, Allah has created the world and everything in it in order to worship Him alone. He sent the Messenger to call the people to tawhidand the Noble Qur'an is concerned with the 'aqidah of tawhid in most of its chapters, and it explains the harm of shirk for the individual and the society. Shirk is the reason for destruction in this life and the reason for eternal destruction in the Fire of the Hereafter.


 Ihtiram (Respect)-

:Al Quran – guide-respect, as - virtue & attitude of good manners – transcendent- mindful of actions –respectful for the sake of Allah.

 Ikhlas (Sincerity) -

:A Muslim architect should show sincerity and purity in their design motivation, and built within conformity to God’s will

Pursuit of 'Ilm (Knowledge)-

:An Islamic building celebrates knowledge through calligraphy of religious Inscriptions and uses light as an expression of knowledge

Iqtisad (Balance)-

:An Islamic building should have harmony between functional and spiritual elements

Haya' (Modesty)-

:An Islamic building should be discreet and preserve the dignity of its owner or users.

Dikr (Remembrance)-

:Rememberance of heaven.

Lecture 1

What is Islamic Architecture?

Islamic architecture to enclosed a wide range of both secular and religious styles from the foundation of Islam to the present day, influencing the design and construction of buildings and structures in Islam culture.

Islam is said to be the first religion, the one that Adam and eve had. Muslim believes in all the prophets from Adam to the last prophet Muhammad SAW who brought along the Qu'raan and Hadith.

*Born in Mecca around 570 AD

 Prophet Muhammad comes from the tribe of Qureish which was from the 40 clans lived in Mecca with varying status and wealth.

*He was highly respected throughout his tribe for his kind heart and truthfulness.

 He left in this world the Qu'raan, Hadith and Sunnah. *Qu'raan is the sayings of Allah to human kind which was revealed to the Prophet during his meditation period brought by the Angels. 

*Hadith is the things said by the Prophet Muhammad SAW throughout his life time on Earth and Sunnah is his Actions.

 *Muslim considers the Prophet SAW to be their role model, so they try to follow the hadith and sunnah which is considered the perfect way for a living Muslim. 

Pillar of Islam.