Holy month of Ramadan
LIKE Muslims the world over, the faithful of Bangladesh begin their month-long abstinence today. Fasts are kept from dawn to dusk as a means of mental and physical self-purification. The holy month, though, goes far beyond material abstinence and brings us face to face with the reality of deprivation and poverty that so many people in the world suffer from. During this month, a Muslim renews his pledge to be virtuous, to abstain from sins and clear the heart of hatred and ill will. Ramadan brings us closer to the spiritual essence of our being and, in line with Islamic values, preaches to us the virtues of brotherhood, fraternity and communal harmony. It also involves engaging in charity to benefit those among us who are less fortunate.
Ramadan is a month of introspection and it puts into perspective the many petty squabbles and stand-offs in our lives, be it social or political, that can and should be overcome. Imbued with the spirit of accommodation and sacrifice, we hope the political parties of our country can set aside their differences and engage in healthy dialogue that will be fruitful for the nation. It is also our sincere hope that the camaraderie during Ramadan be carried over and applied throughout the year and across the globe so that the Muslim population can come together to extol the virtues of peace and harmony in every day life. Let us all embrace the spirit of Ramadan and seek out the humanitarian principles of equality and fraternity.
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