Dear Editor
CORONAVIRUS Covid-19 has impacted the whole world. It has caused not only worldly things to come to a halt, but all religious activities have also been affected tremendously. As a religious leader, we try to answer what role religion could play during this time of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Holy Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him (PBUH) has guided us about such situations. Narrated Saud: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “If you hear of an outbreak of plague in a land, do not enter it; but if the plague breaks out in a place while you are in it, do not leave that place.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
The spiritual leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) has been guiding us throughout this time of the pandemic. First, he enjoined everyone to take all precautions.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) said: “It is important to adopt all the precautionary measures. Try to keep a handkerchief so that when you sneeze, other people are not affected. Also, try not to touch your face if your hands are not clean.”
His Holiness also said that in addition to drinking plenty of water, people should rest sufficiently and adopt a healthy diet, avoiding junk foods.

Islam highly emphasises on cleanliness. Holy Quran says
“And keep thy clothes clean. And uncleanliness do thou shun.” ( Holy Quran Ch. 74: V. 5-6)
After taking all necessary precautions Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) drew our attention towards our Creator God, the ultimate protector.
His Holiness said: “Only God knows how far this epidemic is going to spread. However, if it is a result of God’s displeasure, then we need to turn to Him to be saved from its adverse consequences. Every Ahmad? Muslim should pray and strive to improve their spiritual condition and should also pray for the world. May God enable the worlds’s people to recognise their Creator.

His Holiness quoted an article published in the Daily Telegraph, in which columnist Philip Johnston writes how the world has been turned upside down in the span of a couple of weeks. The columnist spoke of how the virus had exposed the vulnerabilities of the seemingly impregnable might of Western society.

His Holiness said that after highlighting that these are extraordinary times unimaginable to those born after World War 11, Mr Johnston concludes:

“How many times have we heard people say “Everything will be OK because scientists will work something out”, whether it be global warming or the pandemic? We are about to find out whether such optimism is justified. If it isn’t, then I might be heading back to church.”
Referencing the column, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) said:
“This virus has forced people to think about returning towards God… He is the One who has announced that He will guide those who make an effort in coming towards God. He has stated that he will come fast towards those who take even one step towards Him and has said that He will take them into His shelter.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) drew our attention towards our duty and he stated:
“In these circumstances… We must tell people that for the ultimate result to be good, we must turn towards God and realise that true life is that which is in the Hereafter and we must not associate any partners with Him and fulfil the rights of His creation”
His Holiness further stated:

“The ultimate tool we have at our disposal is that of prayer. We should all pray for the entire world that Allah the Almighty may save mankind from the harmful effects of this virus.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) has also advised the community leaders to help humanity in this difficult time.

“I have told Amir Sahib [President of the Community], Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya [President of Youth Organization] and Humanity First (NGO) that during these days, whatever is possible for the welfare and help of people should be done.”

He further stated that, “Observing precautionary measures, they should help whoever they can. To please God, it is essential that one takes care of His creation and most importantly, beseech God the Almighty’s mercy for their own sake and for the sake of mankind.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May God be his Helper) cautioned Ahmadi Muslim businessmen to not to overcharge people in this time of epidemic. He explained that this goes against the teachings of Islam which are empathy for humanity. One ought to seek Allah’s mercy by looking after humanity.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Guyana along with Humanity First Guyana is serving mankind by donating over 200 food hampers and 350 face masks to vulnerable families across our country. We should shun all kinds of wrongdoing and evil ways and turn towards our Creator who is most merciful and forgiving. Just like the people of Nineveh, we should seek forgiveness and God, the merciful will show mercy upon us. May God forgive all of us and protect all of us against the Covid-19 pandemic. Amen.

Regards
Maqsood Ahmed Mansoor
Missionary in Charge
Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Guyana