By THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF
As the whole world observes Ramadan today in the midst of pandemic that requires social distancing and lockdown in other places, Filipino Muslims believe that this does not affect their observance of the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.
Speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS, environmentalist, women’s advocate, and former legislator Samira Gutoc said, “Social distancing does not take away the sincerity of our prayers to Allah.”
“Our Mufti, highest religious authority, has advised that the usual congregations need not be observed because of the current situation. So for us Filipino Muslims and all the Muslims in the world, have to accept this different kind of observance,” Gutoc explained.
“And as Ramadan commences, the more than 1.8 billion Muslims around the world, except those pregnant and the sick will observe fasting from dawn till dusk, abstaining not just from food but also from water, sex, and evil thoughts,” she added.
“For all of us Muslims, fasting is an act that connects us to the weak and poor, as part of enforcing social justice. We are commanded to seek them, aid them in charity. Fasting was also practiced by the revered Jesus, as well as by Muslims for generations. We will continue to pray to the Great Allah to end this pandemic and let peace, good health, and prosperity reign Insha’Allah,” Gutoc concluded.
The Ramadan which starts today is 30 days of spiritual journey through reflection, praying, fasting, abstaining, and sacrifice done by the Muslim. It commenced based on the sighting of the moon which is the harbinger of Ramadan and according to the Darul Al Ifta it falls today, Friday, April 24, 2020.
