Story by Robert de la Serna
A visit to Butig offers a striking sight that’s impossible to ignore. To the left of the access road, a tall spire emerges as a steadfast presence, overseeing a cluster of trees. What seizes our attention isn’t just its impressive height but also its bold, golden hue that stands out amidst the surrounding cornfields and foliage, as if nature itself pays tribute to this unique structure. This is the ‘miranet,’ an essential part of a mosque.
We’ve seen similar structures before. Many others are scattered across Lanao del Sur, resembling tall pencils in this unmistakably Islamic province. Yet, to us, frequent visitors, this particular miranet, albeit not as grand as some we’ve seen, holds a unique significance. It stands as an iconic landmark, extending a warm welcome and bidding us farewell in this remote provincial town.
Initially, I simply referred to it as a ‘spire’ until I learned its proper name. The miranet, a distinctive feature of clan-owned mosques, plays a crucial role in the lives of the local Muslim community. It facilitates the Muslim call to prayer, with a loudspeaker announcing prayer times, led by the muezzin.
The miranets that dot Lanao del Sur’s landscape reveal remarkable artwork upon closer examination. I’ve often pondered whether this tradition of intricate designs in Maranao Islamic architecture, although influenced by the broader Arab world, might have developed unique regional characteristics. Despite Islam reaching Mindanao many centuries ago, regional factors might have contributed to distinctive architectural styles, setting them apart from their counterparts in neighboring countries like Indonesia and Malaysia.
Based on my research into Islamic architecture, I discovered profound symbolism intricately woven into the designs. The miranets have transformed into canvases adorned with patterns and colors that narrate stories of paradise and beauty. The design goes beyond aesthetics; it serves as a conduit for spiritual connections, enriching and inspiring the worship experience.
Not to be missed, the enduring presence of the half-moon crescent atop these miranets signifies the Islamic lunar calendar and its role in guiding early Arabs during their desert journeys. These spires, reminiscent of watchtowers, symbolize more than architectural marvels; they embody faith, culture, and a timeless tradition that lights the path for every spiritual traveler.
In Barangay Sandab, a larger mosque commands attention amidst the neighboring rice fields, serving as a focal point for the devout community. Its charm lies in its simplicity – a weathered white facade complemented by a deep green palette. Four domes, known as ‘qubba,’ elegantly crown the building’s corners. A row of inverted hearts, along with Arabic calligraphy, adds a distinctive touch. The pointed arches, technically ‘ogival,’ of the hallway are reminiscent of the architectural style that influenced the evolution of Gothic design.
Adjacent to the mosque, a miranet stands tall, bathed in a macaroon yellow hue, adorned with intricate zigzag reliefs and decorative ornaments that gracefully envelop the spire like ribbons. What truly captivates is the miranet’s reflection in a tranquil pool of water within a nearby rice paddy. This reflection seamlessly bridges the gap between heaven and earth, creating a visually captivating harmony.
