Muharram calls for a renewed commitment to serve humanity

The Muslim Judicial Council of South Africa (MJC) expresses its well wishes to all South African Muslims and all Muslims across the world as we welcome the Islamic New Year – Muharram 1439.

Allah (SWT) says in the Glorious Quraan:

“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four [Rajab, Dhul Qadah, Dhul Hijja and Muharram] are sacred.” Chapter 9, Verse 36

We not only remember the year 1438 as a year of atrocious human rights violations and immeasurable suffering of the poor and oppressed but also as a year that brought about a heightened awareness of our duties to Almighty Allah and humanity in order to make a difference.

Muharram provides us with a renewed opportunity to evaluate our previous commitments and forge new pledges that will draw us closer to Almighty Allah. We must aim to become better citizens of the world and show compassion toward our fellow human beings.  We should welcome the New Year as an opportunity for us to reach out to the poor, underprivileged, weak and oppressed people in our communities.

We implore our Muslim leaders, as well as our Muslim brothers and sisters across the globe to embrace the fundamental teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) as a Mercy upon Humanity and that the values we adopt include the human values of dignity, respect, kindness and mercy.

We cannot forget the dire circumstances that many people find themselves in both locally, nationally and internationally. For those distributing their Zakaah during this time, we make Dua it will reach the communities where it is needed most.

As Muslims, we remember the following Quranic ayat:

“Verily, with every difficulty comes ease,” Chapter 94, Verse 5-6

Furthermore, Allah reminds us:

“And your Lord says, “Call upon Me; I will respond to you.” Chapter 40, Verse 60.

It is important for us NOT to underestimate the power of Dua but at the same time, have the conviction that Almighty Allah will ease our burden. It will allow us to establish a closer connection with Almighty Allah. If our relationship with Almighty Allah is correct, then it will nurture a thriving relationship with our fellow human beings.

The MJC (SA) invites the Muslim community to fast on the Sunday, 10th Muharram and Monday, 11th Muharram with the intention of feeling the pangs of hunger with the oppressed people the world over.

Lastly, we urge all Muslims in the Western Cape to be conscious of preserving water as we are experiencing one of the worst droughts in recorded history.

May Almighty Allah, grant us relief and guide us, Ameen.

Issued by Shaykh Isgaak Taliep

Secretary-General

Muslim Judicial Council (SA)