THE New Amsterdam Central Jama Masjid, in Berbice, extended Ramadan greetings to the Muslim community at the start of the Islamic Holy Month last Wednesday.

Muslims throughout the world regard it as the most sacred period on the Islamic Calendar and it is when the Holy Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) are celebrated.
It is the also the month when the commencement of the revelation of the Holy Qur’an took place and where the Holy Prophet was, simultaneously, commissioned by Almighty God as the final messenger.
Imaam of the New Amsterdam Masjid, Mohamed Ispahani Haniff, took the opportunity to enlighten other Muslims about the importance of observing this sacred month, in the hope that they would all reap the rewards of their obligations.
He said:”The two greatest gifts to humanity originated in this month and in the celebration of Muhammad and the revelation of the Holy Qur’an, God Almighty has been extremely generous by offering immense blessings and opportunities to Muslims who live according to the teachings of the Qur’an.
“It is an opportunity to gain closeness to God and forgiveness by enhancing our personal conduct,” Haniff added.
Ramadan is a month of spiritual discipline when fasting has been ordained as it affords Muslims the time to demonstrate obedience to the Creator and protect themselves from engaging in the ills of society, he advised.

Not only
According to him:”It is not only about abstaining from food, drinks and marital relations, it helps us to strengthen our character.”
In his greetings, Haniff said:”The Central Jama Masjid wishes all Muslims a happy and rewarding Ramadan.
“We would like to remind you that it is an honour to observe this month, which provides great opportunities for you to gain paradise. Fast with quality, read the Qur’an and engage yourselves in the prayers that were prescribed for you during this month.”
The Muslim community was also urged to strive assiduously to implement the teachings of Ramadan in their everyday lives.
“It would be most unfortunate for this Holy Month to pass without gaining anything. If you are negligent, it means that you are incurring the wrath of God upon yourselves. Ramadan compels every sane and healthy Muslim to observe it in the most righteous way,” Haniff asserted.