Ethnomathematical Exploration in the Architectural Design of Masjid Agung Al-Jami’ Pekalongan

Abstract

This research is motivated by the importance of contextual mathematics learning through a local cultural approach, particularly in the study of ethnomathematics in mosque architecture. The Great Mosque of Al-Jami’ Pekalongan contains various architectural elements that reflect geometric and transformation geometry concepts that can be utilized as learning resources in mathematics. This study aims to explore the ethnomathematical concepts found in the architecture of the Great Mosque of Al-Jami’ Pekalongan and their implications for mathematics learning. This study employed a qualitative approach using an ethnographic method. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and interviews with mosque administrators. Data analysis techniques were carried out through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that the architecture of the Great Mosque of Al-Jami’ Pekalongan contains concepts of plane and solid geometry, such as squares, rectangular prisms, cylinders, spheres, and pyramids, as well as transformation geometry concepts including reflection, translation, rotation, dilation, similarity, and congruence. In addition, symbolic elements were found in the 27-meter tower height and the 99 steps, which represent religious values in Islamic culture. These concepts function not only as aesthetic and structural elements of the building, but also contain cultural and religious values that reflect the relationship between mathematics and community life. The implications of this study indicate that mosque architecture can be utilized as a contextual learning medium to help students understand geometric concepts more concretely and meaningfully through an ethnomathematics approach.