This Ramadan is unique. Challenges such as health concerns, economic uncertainty, mental stress, and social distancing created by the novel coronavirus pandemic have further highlighted the significance of this holy month for the Muslims.
The true spirit of Ramadan is to be considerate, patient, kind, generous, and strengthening connection with the Creator. These are the qualities that everyone seems to be talking about as the world continues to fight against the cornavirus outbreak.
Aliguma Saul Rayan, chairman of Ugandan Community in Qatar, is a very active member of his community. The energetic volunteer while interacting with Community recently underlined the necessity of practising the true spirit of Ramadan to cope with the global pandemic.
Citing multiple saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Aliguma highlighted how important it was for people to take inspiration from Ramadan to face the health crisis. “Unfortunately, the holy month has come when the world is facing a deadly pandemic which has claimed lots of lives around the world. I can’t fail to thank governments of Qatar and the Republic of Uganda alongside volunteering organistaions who are working hard to keep people safe at home.”
The Ugandan expat sees Ramadan a great opportunity for all of people to practice love, unity, respect and care like never before.
“We can give love in secret by praying for one another. Masjids are closed in Qatar because of the Covid-19 but we can still pray from home and make lots of dua for the people all over the world. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has said: “None of you will have faith till you wish for your brother / sister what you like for yourself.” As you wish the best for yourself, wish the same for your brother and sister by making prayers for them.
“When a Muslim makes dua for someone else, an angel is appointed to say Ameen to his dua and to makes dua for him or her in return by saying may you be granted the same.”
Aliguma also highlighted the need of unity during difficult times.
“We have to practice unity and be united like never before. As one Ummah, one body, one unity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “The believers in their mutual love mercy and compassion are like one body. If one organ complains, the rest of the body develops fever.” United we stand and divided we fall.”
The Ugandan community leader urges people to take precedent in Ramadan to take care of each other. “The Covid-19 situation has left many in grave danger. It is time that we show care to those in need mostly. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “A Muslim shall never leave other Muslims helpless in time of need.” This is the month when most of the Muslims distribute their zakat. This year we can look for the most distressed and affected by the pandemic to give our zakat to.”
Aliguma underlines the need of good manners and respect for each other. He believes it is needed more than ever as people are getting into desperate situation.
“Good manners, gentleness, calmness and patience bring respect to an individual. If we see staying at home during the health crisis as an act of love and care for others, we should do that to keep our society safe. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was once asked what admits people to –paradise, he said: “Piety respect and good manners.” We need to show respect and follow community guidelines and regulations during the pandemic.
He further said: “Ramadan this year is special in a way as mobility is restricted and families have got much more time to stay together. Moreover, this Ramadan has also taught us another important lesson. While observing social distancing, we don’t need to be available physically to take care of someone or make their life more meaningful. We are staying close to our families and that is the greatest act of kindness.”
u201cRamadan this year is special in a way as mobility is restricted and families have got much more time to stay together. Moreover, this Ramadan has also taught us another important lesson. While observing social distancing, we don’t need to be available physically to take care of someone or make their life more meaningful. We are staying close to our families and that is the greatest act of kindnessu201d u2014 Aliguma Saul Rayan
