Ramadan Kareem

This year’s fast, the Ramadan, which began on Thursday sees the Muslim faithful across the globe observe a month of abstinence from food, drink and sex during the day. The objective is to help the observer draw closer to his Creator with the hope of attaining his favour in the hereafter.

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is obligatory for all adult Muslims. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and it was during the month that the revelation of the Holy Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began. It is a period of self rejuvenation and purification at the end of which it is expected that observers will fully imbibe the lessons of the holy month and apply them to the remainder of their lives.

During this holy month, Muslims are also expected to show kindness, love and generosity to fellow human beings, particularly the less privileged. The act of fasting was enjoined on man partly to force the more affluent in society to experience the hardship of deprivation suffered by the less privileged. Allah the Almighty says during this blessed month the gates of hell are shut while those of heaven are flung open for Muslims who devote themselves to worship of their Creator. The Qur’an also reminds Muslims that fasting has been prescribed for them the way it was prescribed for generations before them in order that they may toe the straight path and be obedient. It, therefore, requires that all Muslims double their effort at doing good and seeking the pleasure of Allah.

While seeking Allah’s grace in this month, Muslims must also devote themselves in prayers for Allah to bring an end to all problems confronting the believers. Muslims must unite against all divisive tendencies and pray for peace, love one another and be considerate to their neighbours.

As the 2019 elections approach, the nation will be put to a great test with politicians doing their utmost to gain or destroy power. Muslims should endeavour to pray for a violence free and successful conduct of the polls that will hopefully usher in leaders that will lead the nation to greater heights. We pray that Allah accept our acts of worship and wish all Muslims and the entire nation all the blessings of this blessed month of Ramadan.