Muslim leaders urge faithful to observe Zakat al-Fitr, show charity
Muslims across the country have been urged to take seriously the Zakat al-Fitr, the six days fasting after the main fast and the show of charity as they constitute two important traditions of the faith.
Zakat al-Fitr signifies purification of fasting and ensures that everyone celebrate the holiday with an ‘open arm’ by providing food for the needy.
This was contained in a series of messages delivered by the different sects of the faith to congratulate all Muslims in the country for a successful fasting period.
In his statement, Sheikh Abdul Wadudi Haruna, the President of the Tijjaniya Muslims of Ghana, thanked Allah for his guidance and blessings throughout the fasting period.
He said “As we celebrate Eid, I advise you to pay attention to Zakat al-Fitr, Six days fasting immediately after Ramadan called Six days of Shawwal, and Charity as three important traditions of the Prophet.”
Sheikh Haruna said Zakat al-Fitr signified purification of fasting and adherents must ensure that everyone celebrated the holiday with an ‘open arm’ by providing food for the needy.
“Even though Zakat al-Fitr is not obligatory on those who cannot afford three square meals a day, it is recommended not only to give to close relatives or friends but also to the needy,” he added.
Sheikh Haruna stated that “I wish to remind my fellow brothers and sisters in Islam, especially the Tijjaniya brethren to collaborate and complement one another on initiatives and projects that benefits humanity such as hospitals, community water, welfare centres, vocational training schools and universities.”
The National Imam of Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jamat, Sheikh Imam Alhaji Umar Ibrahim, on his part congratulated all Muslims across the world and in Ghana specifically for a successful Ramadan.
He said it was his prayer that the supplications and wishes of all who took part in the fast were answered by the Almighty Allah.
“Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) informed us that our Lord, Glorious and Exalted is He, descends in the last third of every night and says: Who calls upon Me, so I may respond to him? Who asks Me, so I may give him? Who seeks forgiveness from Me, so I may forgive him? Bukhari” he quoted.
He used the occasion to conscientise Muslim Ummahs on the need to invest in themselves and help one another to build their own wealth and resources.
“I urge and encourage everyone to give attention to industrialisation and entrepreneurship, especially in our communities,” he emphasised.
The Secretary General of the National Council of Zongo Chiefs, Chief Ishaq Naaba Sigri, said faithfuls must not forget their brethren in need, sick and the departed souls.
“We are constantly being reminded by the Islamic scholars and imams that when a person dies his good deeds come to an end, except three: Ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who will pray for him,” he stressed.
He used the occasion to solicit support from the general public, especially the resourceful in the country, and abroad in aid of the construction of new campuses for the Islamic Senior High School and a Nursing Training College in the Ga South Municipality.
The message from the National Imam of the Shia Muslim Community in Ghana, Sheikh Abubakar Kamaludeen, urged all Muslims to reflect on the days of fasting and recommit themselves to the Islamic values of piety, love and benevolence.
“Let us be inspired by the enduring message of peace, love, generosity and confidence as they form part of the core qualifications of the Holy Month of Ramadan,” the statement said.
The statement also stated that something must be done urgently to curb the proliferation of arms in the country.