Revelations on Jeffrey Epstein's Islamic Artefacts and Caribbean Mosque Plans

Epstein's Ambitious Plans for a Caribbean Mosque

Recently disclosed documents reveal how Jeffrey Epstein acquired unique Islamic artefacts and established influential connections throughout the Middle East. This was part of his ongoing initiative to create a structure he referred to as a "mosque" on his private island in the Caribbean, as reported by a major news outlet. The records, released by the US Department of Justice, provide insights into the origins and intentions behind a blue-and-white-striped building crowned with a golden dome on Little Saint James, previously described variously as a pavilion, chapel, or music room. Correspondence and interviews referenced in these documents indicate that Epstein himself labeled the structure as a "mosque", although its intended religious purpose remains ambiguous. The materials for its construction were sourced globally from the Islamic world, including tapestries embroidered with Quranic verses from the Kaaba in Mecca and tiles from a mosque in Uzbekistan. The dome's design drew inspiration from historic Syrian architecture.

Epstein's fascination with Islamic design was longstanding. In a 2003 interview with Vanity Fair, he claimed to possess "the largest Persian rug you'll ever see in a private home — so large, it must have come from a mosque." His architectural ambitions for the island began while he was incarcerated in Florida in 2008. Initial concepts included a Turkish-style bathhouse, or "hammam", surrounded by Islamic gardens, which later evolved into a structure he named "5 Palms", for which he sought design ideas influenced by Middle Eastern mosques.

In a 2011 message requesting materials, Epstein specified that tiles would be used "for the inside walls, like a mosque". The documents also disclose that Epstein commissioned designs that modified traditional Islamic motifs. In one email, he proposed substituting Arabic script with his initials, stating: "instead of allah, i thought j's and e's". His endeavors were bolstered by a network of international contacts, including Terje Rod-Larsen, who facilitated connections with individuals associated with the Saudi royal family. Through these relationships, Epstein sought a meeting with Mohammed bin Salman, then the deputy crown prince, as part of his efforts to position himself as a financial consultant. He shared what he termed "radical ideas", including a proposed new currency named "the shariah". Photographs later surfaced showing Epstein with the Saudi royal, which he displayed in his New York residence.

Simultaneously, shipments of artefacts continued to arrive. Correspondence indicates that three items from the Kaaba, including a Kiswa — the black cloth that envelops the shrine — were sent to Epstein's island. A representative highlighted the significance of one such piece in an email, stating: "The black piece was touched by a minimum of 10 million Muslims… They walk around the Kaaba seven times… Hoping after that all their prayers to be accepted." The origins of these items remain uncertain. Epstein's activities unfolded amid increasing controversy. In 2017, Hurricane Maria caused damage to parts of the island, including the structure in question. Relations with Saudi contacts appeared to deteriorate after Mohammed bin Salman ascended to the crown prince position and rebuffed Epstein's advances. In one message, Epstein remarked that "the kingdom needs lots of expensive help now as they did not follow the jew directions", seemingly referring to himself.

Following the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, Epstein communicated with Rod-Larsen regarding the political repercussions. "Dark cloud over his head," the diplomat replied. "And it won't go away." Epstein's own legal challenges soon escalated. A 2019 investigation reignited scrutiny over a previous plea deal, resulting in new charges. He was arrested in July of that year and died by suicide the following month while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The documents provide fresh insights into how Epstein's business aspirations and personal interests intertwined, linking his attempts to gain influence in the Middle East with his acquisition of religious artefacts and the construction of the island building he referred to as a "mosque".