Symbols of the universe and their use in the decoration of Islamic mosques

Abstract

Research Summary

This research, which examines cosmic symbols and their uses in the decoration of Islamic mosques, addresses the following research question: What are cosmic symbols, and how are they used in the decoration of Islamic mosques?

The significance of this research lies in its analysis of the semantic and symbolic values, patterns, and applications of cosmic symbols in the decoration of Islamic mosques, thus fulfilling the needs of specialists in the fields of art, philosophy, history, and architecture.

The research aims to identify cosmic symbols and their use in the decoration of Islamic mosques, and to define key terms such as "cosmic symbols" and "application." Chapter Two is divided into three sections: Section One: "Cosmology Conceptually," Section Two: "Cosmic Symbols Historically," and Section Three: "Cosmic Symbols in the Decoration of Islamic Mosques." The chapter concludes with indicators. Chapter Three details the research methodology, including the study population (62 decorative motifs), the study sample (3 samples), the research methodology, the research instrument, the sample, the statistical and mathematical methods, and the analysis of the selected motifs. Chapter Four presents the research findings, conclusions, recommendations, and suggestions. Among the findings are:

• Muslim artists incorporated cosmic symbols into their decorative works, such as flowers, leaves, branches, and spiral lines (spiral perspective), which imbue existence with movement, growth, and renewal, as illustrated in samples (1), (2), and (3).
• Beauty is achieved through the harmony of cosmic symbols with geometric shapes, such as circles and hexagons, as seen in sample (1). The almond-shaped mihrab decoration is also evident in sample (2).

Among the most important conclusions are:

Cosmic symbols in Islamic ornamentation were influenced by the abstract, metaphysical world, expressed in an aesthetic, philosophical, and spiritual form. Based on these findings and conclusions, the following recommendations and suggestions are offered, and the study concludes with a list of sources and references.