Saturday, April 2, 2022, will mark the beginning of the Islamic Holy month of Ramadan 1439AH, the month in which the Holy Qur’an was sent down as the final divine message for mankind.
Adult and healthy Muslims, are expected to abstain from all food, drink, sex or smoke between dawn and dusk each day till the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal in 29 or 30 days time.
The begining and the end of the Islamic month are determined by the sighting of the New Moon.
Fasting is one of Islam’s five pillars, alongside the declaration they is none either than Allah, praying five times a day, alms-giving and pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, when one is financially endowed.
The fast is the fifth pillar of Islam and presents great opportunities for believers to become closer to the Almighty Allah.
The main purpose of the Ramadan fast is to teach Muslims self-control and perseverance.
Fasting is described in the Holy Qur’an as an act that helps one to become a better Muslim; “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may learn piety and righteousness.”(Quran 2: 183) Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, is considered one of the most blessed months in Islam.
To earn forgiveness and divine mercy, we must show same to our fellow human beings no matter their colour, creed, tribe or religion.
Islamic scholars should use this month-long opportunity to draw attention to the imperative of harmonious, peaceful coexistence preached by Islam and indeed all religions practised in the country.
This Ramadan period should serve as an opportunity for all Muslims to intensify their acts of worship to Almighty Allah.
This nation and its leaders need Allah’s intervention in the resolution of the various challenges confronting us.
We certainly need divine help to enable us confront the threats to food security, peace and peaceful co-existence.
We congratulate all Muslims on the dawn of this holy month of divine opportunities and encourage them to seize every moment to pray for the continued peace and progress of our great country.
May the Almighty Allah accept our devotion and sacrifice now and at all times. Ramadan Kareem to all Muslims!
