The varying restrictions on social gatherings, have definitely had its toll on a number of activities with religious events not being spared. This year’s Holy Month of Ramadan for Muslims has had its fair share of the changes.
Muslims in the holy month of Ramadan observe a thirty day fasting period usually climaxed with a congregational prayer ensued by merry making.
This year, the celebration would be far from normal as the novel coronavirus pandemic with it associated restriction has stolen most part of the beautiful aspects away. The usual pomp and pageantry that accompanies each year’s celebrations will be missing this year
As the climax of Ramadan approaches, some Muslims claim adjusting to the new normal particularly in practicing ones’ faith has been difficult.
Yusuf is a basic school teacher who is home due to the closure of schools. He says the pandemic has left him home bound and therefore affecting various activities that accompany the observation of the fast; bearing difficulty for those who are easily distracted in their faith. He says “because of this some are not able to pray, if we are together it encourages people to pray and according to Islam praying in congregation is more rewarding than praying alone.”
Neziya Abdul-Moomin who also shares in Yusuf’s views says her decision to make new outfits for the Eid this year has simply been disposed of.
The economic constraints that Covid -19 has come along with are undeniable. Small and medium sized enterprises have not been spared.Rashid Musa who runs a tailoring business laments how he simply has been put out of job. He plans to celebrate the Eid with his family at home.
MurabbI Ishaque Ibrahim Amfoh is the Circuit Missionary of Ahmadiya Muslim Mission in Cape Coast. He believes though the period has been problematic; it could be a test of their faith by Allah. He also thinks “the pandemic could very well be a punishment.”
“It is unfortunate we find ourselves in this unusual time but that shouldn’t stop us from worshipping Allah. This is the time we are supposed to make supplications to Him for forgiveness if indeed we have wronged.” He added.
On the issue of climaxing the Ramadan, come Sunday both clerics are of the view that the pandemic should not hinder Muslims from celebrating the Eid. MurabbI Ishaque Ibrahim Amfoh notes that it could be marked in a small family setting. He said the family head could lead the prayer at their homes, afterwards make merry in accordance with safety health protocols.
Ghanaians have been urged to raise prayers per ones’ faith for an intervention by the Supreme Being in these trying times. As our Muslim brethren have observed this holy month, we hope Allah would hear their cry and heal our land.
SOURCE: JOSEPH KOBINA AMUAH/ATLFMNEWS
