Kudus – Historically, the city of Kudus was known as Tajug, a name derived from the abundance of tajug—traditional pyramid-shaped roofs found throughout the area. Following the arrival of Sunan Kudus, the name was changed to Al-Quds, which translates to Kudus.

The name Kudus has long served as the identity of an Indonesian regency in Central Java. This moniker is deeply rooted in the story of Sunan Kudus, also known as Ja’far Shoddiq, a pivotal figure in the spread of Islam in the region. The name is believed to originate from Al-Quds, the Arabic name for Jerusalem in Palestine.

The origins of the name date back to Ja’far Shoddiq’s travels to Palestine. Before establishing a mosque and developing the area now known as Kudus, Sunan Kudus resided in Baitul Maqdis to study Islam. During his stay, the region was struck by a severe epidemic that claimed many lives.

According to local historical records, Ja’far Shoddiq played a key role in helping to mitigate the epidemic. In gratitude, the Amir of Palestine granted him authority over a territory in Palestine.

This grant of authority was reportedly inscribed on a stone featuring ancient Arabic script, which remains placed above the mihrab of the Al-Aqsa Mosque of Kudus (Masjid Menara Kudus). The stone serves as a significant artifact in the city's founding lore.

Despite receiving this honor, Ja’far Shoddiq requested that his jurisdiction be transferred to Java, a plea that was granted by his mentor, the Amir of Palestine.

Upon receiving the authorization, Ja’far Shoddiq returned to Java. His homecoming marked the beginning of a religious center that would later become integral to the history of Kudus.

In 1548 AD, Ja’far Shoddiq established a mosque in the Kudus area. Initially named Al Manar, it was later renamed Al Aqsho.

The name change reflected Sunan Kudus’s connection to Palestine, as he chose to honor the Masjidil Aqsho in Jerusalem.

This is where the link to Al-Quds emerged in the history of Kudus. Since Jerusalem is also known as Baitul Maqdis or Al-Quds, the name became the inspiration for the modern name of the city, Kudus.

This naming story remains a cornerstone of local history. The name Kudus identifies more than just an administrative region; it reflects the spiritual and historical ties forged through the journey of Sunan Kudus.

The mosque founded by Ja’far Shoddiq grew into one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Still standing today, it is known as the Great Mosque of Kudus (Masjid Agung Kudus). Located near the main town square, it serves as a historic monument to the development of Islam in the area.

Over time, the settlement surrounding the mosque evolved into a vibrant community hub. Kudus is now recognized as a region deeply intertwined with the history of the spread of Islam in Java.

Kudus Regency remains a prominent historical center for Islam, characterized by the presence of the tombs of various saints, including that of Sunan Kudus.

The legacy of Sunan Kudus endures not only through physical architecture but also through the city's identity. The name Kudus serves as a lasting tribute to the scholar who studied in Palestine before returning home to leave an indelible mark on Java.

Despite the changing times, this narrative remains an integral part of the history of Kudus Regency. The city's name, the existence of its mosque, and various relics associated with Sunan Kudus continue to serve as landmarks of the region's enduring heritage.

Kudus Regency is currently part of Central Java Province, with the city of Kudus serving as the administrative seat and the primary hub for regional economic and government activities.

Known as a 'city of students' (santri), the regency maintains strong historical ties to the development of Islam. The tomb of Sunan Kudus, along with numerous other religious sites, stands as a testament to this legacy.

Administratively, Kudus consists of nine districts, nine urban villages, and 123 rural villages, with the seat of government located in the Kota Kudus district.

As it developed, Kudus cultivated a unique identity, yet the story of its namesake remains an inseparable element of local history.

The journey of Ja’far Shoddiq from Palestine to Java, the account of being granted land, the founding of the mosque in 1548 AD, and the inspiration behind the name 'Al-Quds' form a historical narrative passed down through generations.

The name 'Kudus' is rooted in this history. Derived from 'Al-Quds,' the Arabic name for Jerusalem, it has become an enduring marker of identity for this region in Central Java to this day.

_{^{Source : https://daerah.sindonews.com/newsread/1121565/29/kisah-sunan-kudus-mendirikan-kota-kudus-setelah-terinspirasi-al-quds-di-palestina-1686258378}}, _{^{https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabupaten_Kudus}}