Ramadan 2021 Message from His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.
Love for all and hatred for nothing
I extend Ramuban Mubarak greetings to the entire Islamic community of Guyana and, by extension to all Guyanese.
Ramadan is the most holy month in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of reform – a month of returning to spiritual piety and purity for Muslims. It is traditional at this time for Muslims not only to fast from food and drink but to abstain from bad thoughts, words and deeds.
Ramadan is also a time for reform and perfecting our character. He reminds us that a sign of good character shows care and consideration and benevolence towards others.
Ramadan is also a time for expressing gratitude. As we reflect on the challenges that arise in a Covid-19 environment, let us be grateful to Almighty Allah for blessing us with observing another Ramadan, so that we can include the right attitude and behavior necessary for our success here on earth, as well as in this.
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed our weaknesses and helplessness, but Ramadan teaches us the powerful and redeeming qualities of humility, empathy and gratitude. In this Holy Month, let us therefore not forget to express our gratitude for God’s infinite love, mercy and wisdom.
Fasting brings us closer to God and bases us in the desirable values of humility and understanding. Fasting offers a path to godliness but requires that we cleanse our hearts of all forms of hatred, jealousy and prejudice.
Ramadan teaches us to have love for all and hatred for nothing. The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) reminded:
You will not enter Paradise until you have faith, and you will not have faith until you love one another. Would I show you something that, if you do, you would love each other? Spread peace between yourself.
During this Holy Month may we all strive to live as Brothers and Sisters. May we banish hatred, jealousy and prejudice from our hearts and from our relationships with one another.
Let us follow the example of the Holy Prophet (May Peace be upon him), whose generosity is worth emulating.
Ramadan Mubarak to all of you and your families.
May this Ramadan bring true blessings and success for all of us as we fast. Remember those who are less fortunate, remember all Guyanese, remember all human beings in our prayers because together we are trying to exit this pandemic.
Ramadan Mubarak.