The Qibla Directional Accuracy Determination Analysis Using Spherical Trigonometric Method and Google Earth

Abstract

This research aims to find out the methods used to determine the direction of the qibla of mosques in Kendari City and provide solutions for mosques that are not following the direction of the qibla in Kendari City. The research method used is qualitative descriptive with an empirical normative approach. The data collection methods that researchers use are interviews, observations, documentation and data analysis, namely data reduction, presentation of data, and concluding. The results showed that, first, the majority of the direction of the mosque's qibla that was the object of the study was inaccurate. This is based on the results of calculations and direct checks using the Spherical Trigonometric Calculation Formula and Google Earth that researchers have done, where the direction of the qibla of each mosque is 21°-22° from West to North and 68°, 38° from North to West. Of the 20 mosques studied, 13 mosques were inaccurate or not precisely in the qibla direction. Of the 13 mosques, 12 mosques whose deviation or deviation angle is more minor to the North, one mosque is the corner of deviation or deviation is more to the North or less to the South. Second, for mosques that are not right in the direction of the qibla, it must be directed towards the actual qibla; by the way, the mosque building must be rehab or renovation, but this is difficult because it requires a substantial cost (large) then the most accessible step at a meager cost; namely, the mosque shaf must be directed towards the qibla which is the most accessible and straightforward solution.