A Comparative Analysis of the Role of Color in Islamic Mosque Architecture from an Islamic Hikmah Perspective (A Case Study of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and the Great Mosque of Samarra)
Subject Areas : Wisdom and architecture
Atena Sadat Hashemi Fesharaki
1
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1 - PhD in Architecture, Department of Architecture, Institute of Society and Media, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran /Tourism, Architecture and Urban Research Center, ISF.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
Keywords: Color, Great Mosque of Samarra, Islamic Architecture, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Symbolism,
Abstract :
Introduction
Color in Islamic architecture serves not merely a decorative function but also embodies profound epistemological and symbolic meanings rooted in the tradition of Hikmah (wisdom). This study explores the role of color in two iconic mosques—Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Isfahan and the Great Mosque of Samarra. Through these case studies, the research demonstrates how colors such as turquoise, lapis lazuli, gold, and green transcend aesthetics, conveying spiritual and philosophical messages that reflect divine light (Nur) and cosmic order. The theoretical framework draws on the wisdom-oriented perspectives of Seyyed Hossein Nasr and Titus Burckhardt, who interpret color as a symbolic language bridging the material and sacred realms
Methodology
Using a descriptive-analytical and comparative approach, this research investigates the symbolic and functional roles of color in the selected mosques. Data were collected through library research, including scholarly articles, books, and historical documents retrieved from databases such as ScienceDirect and others. The analysis is grounded in the philosophical and mystical theories of Nasr and Burckhardt, which view color as a medium for metaphysical expression. Qualitative content analysis was used to decode the symbolic meanings of colors and their interaction with light and architectural form. Comparative case studies of the two mosques reveal distinct yet complementary applications of color in Islamic sacred spaces
Results
The findings indicate that color in Islamic architecture operates on multiple levels. In Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the dominant turquoise and lapis lazuli hues symbolize the sky and infinity, whereas gold represents divine light. These colors, combined with intricate tilework and natural light, create a transcendent atmosphere guiding worshippers from sensory perception to spiritual contemplation. In contrast, the Great Mosque of Samarra employs simpler color schemes, such as white and earthy tones, emphasizing purity and earthly power. Despite their differences, both mosques employ color to manifest theological and philosophical concepts, aligning with Nasr’s view of light as a divine manifestation and Burckhardt’s interpretation of color as sacred symbolism. The study also highlights how the interplay of color and light enhances spiritual experience, reinforcing the connection between the material and the divine
Conclusion
This study underscores color’s significance as a carrier of spiritual and philosophical meaning in Islamic architecture. By analyzing Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and the Great Mosque of Samarra, this research illustrates how color transcends aesthetics, functioning as a language of Hikmah that facilitates a multidimensional experience of the sacred. The insights from Nasr and Burckhardt provide a theoretical foundation for understanding color’s role in connecting the sensory and spiritual worlds. An appreciation of color’s symbolic and epistemological functions could enrich contemporary Islamic architecture while preserving cultural and spiritual authenticity. Future research could expand this framework by examining diverse examples of Islamic architecture to further explore the intersections of color and sacred space
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