Masjid Ur Rahma, commonly referred to as the Greenside Mosque is situated on the border of the suburbs of Greenside and Emmarentia. These suburbs share commonality with Northcliff in that these areas were historically "White" areas and has seen a surge in Muslims moving into the neighbourhood over the past few years.
It is also a suburb where one can easily say that they " have arrived". Greenside and Emmarentia are seperated by Barry Hertzog Road. Greenside is really very green with lots of trees. The main difference between the two is the size of each plot. Emmarentia has larger plots than that of Greenside. At first glance, the Mosque is extremely beautiful owing to its modern architecture. It follows the traditional Mosque structure of a dome and a minaret and includes a Madressah and an Islamic Library within the complex. What really strikes me about the Mosque is that, in addition to merely being a place for Namaaz, the Mosque has recently hosted an open day to people from other religious communities. The purpose being to enhance peoples understanding and perceptions about Islam. I also remember reading an article online once which referred to the Mosque as being the "Silent Mosque" Taking into account the different religious groupings in the neighbourhood, the Adhaan is not broadcasted loudly. Many people in the neighbourhood have access to a "Bilal" radio which brings all lectures and Adhaan into your home everyday. This service can be found at many mosques throughout Johannesburg. Similar to the Northcliff Mosque, one could easily notice the strong family atmosphere. Everyone seem to know everyone and as many people who drove, was as many I seen walking to and from. As I walked out to get my shoes, I probably shook hands with at least 10 people who extended there hands to me with "Salaams. The majority of people seen were local Indian Muslims, who previously lived in the suburbs of Mayfair and Lenasia, but what made me feel right at home was the several ex KZN dudes who I met and reconnected with. I also met a handful of people from Turkey, Malawi and Pakistan who are working in and or residing in the area.