Social media platforms in various Muslim-majority countries, such asPakistan and Turkey, have been buzzing with a controversial claim: thatChicago has opened a casino in a building strikingly reminiscent of amosque, even featuring a wooden inscription of the kalama tayyaba at itsentrance. Adding fuel to the fire, this edifice has been christened”Medinah Temple,” sparking outrage among many who perceive it as adeliberate affront to the Muslim community.
While it is true that the casino exists and bears these resemblances, adeeper exploration of the building’s history reveals that its opening mightnot have been an intentional act to provoke Muslims. The Medinah Temple,with its historic roots dating back to 1912, was originally designed as anornate auditorium with a seating capacity of approximately 4,200 on threelevels. This Moorish-style amphitheater was the brainchild of architectsHuehl and Schmidt and was even used for recording symphonies in the 1960s.Importantly, throughout its existence, it has never served as a mosque.
So, why does Medinah Temple bear such a strong resemblance to a mosque, andwhy is it referred to as a “temple”? The answer lies in its origins; thebuilding was erected by the Shriners, a branch of the Freemasonryorganization known as the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the MysticShrine. This particular group embraced a Middle Eastern aesthetic and, likemany other Freemasonry branches, chose to label their buildings as”temples.”
This nomenclature accounts for the temple’s name. It is worth noting thatShriners have constructed other buildings in the United States with MiddleEastern themes, and following the tragic events of 9/11, they facedunwarranted harassment due to misconceptions about their affiliation withIslam.
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In conclusion, while the resemblance between the Medinah Temple and amosque is undeniable, its history suggests that the intentions behind itsestablishment were not aimed at offending the Muslim community. Rather, itstands as a historical artifact of architectural and cultural influencesthat have shaped its design and nomenclature over the years. Understandingthe context and origins of such structures can help dispel misconceptionsand foster greater cultural sensitivity
