Today, many Muslims around the world are desperately praying for their brothers and sisters in war-torn countries and for the women and children who have lost their loved ones and are living in desperation and destitution, struggling to survive in refugee camps. In Iraq and Syria, the wars continue and the bombings never stop. In Libya, Yemen and Sudan, the killings are rampant and the destruction goes on. In Palestine, Israeli atrocities have no end. In Afghanistan and Pakistan, men are fighting and women and children are dying. In Myanmar, minorities are suffering and injustices have ruined the lives of the innocent. The bloodshed continues as the world watches. It is heartbreaking to hear the cries of women and the sobs of children. They all need our prayers and support to endure the injustice and hardship of conflicts and wars. As Muslims, we believe that people will be tried and tested in life, and that God calls upon us to bear these trials with “patient perseverance and prayer.” We are reminded in the Holy Qur'an that many people before us have suffered and had their faith tested; so too will we be tried and tested in this life. We must teach our children to put their trust in God and to be patient and persevere. Indeed, during these difficult times of conflicts and turmoil, Muslims must not despair and must remember to seek guidance and comfort from their Creator. For without hope and faith all will be lost. In the Holy Qur'an, Allah says: “Be sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives, and the fruits of your toil. But give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Those who say, when afflicted with calamity, ‘To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.' They are those on whom descend blessings from their Lord, and mercy. They are the ones who receive guidance.” Let us all make concerted efforts to propagate the true principles of Islam that are based on compassion, mercy and peace. It is the duty of every Muslim to speak the truth and stand against injustice. All Muslims today have a responsibility to renew their commitment to become better people and devote their life for the good of all. Without such a commitment, there will be no hope for a better future. Many Muslims around the world have to endure the injustice of cruel and violent men with selfish agendas. As Muslims, we should not let hatred and rage consume us. Indeed, it is difficult for any sane person to look at the tragedies of the world today and not feel angry and frustrated. But a true believer must put his trust in God and should not despair. “Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which Thou did lay on those before us. Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, and grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our Protector”. As the world faces the challenges of war, let us work for peace. Let us build bridges of understanding, promote reconciliation and combat sectarianism. Let us stand united against the horrors of war. May the Almighty inspire Muslim leaders in this blessed month to face their challenges with wisdom and prudence. May they have the willpower to advance the common good. Let the true principles of Islam guide them to spread love and harmony to all Muslim societies around the world. Muslim leaders need to reach reconciliation, promote tolerance, apply moderation and spread peace and prosperity in their region. May the Lord grant them His blessings and the power to overcome their enemies and defeat the evil that has spread like cancer destroying their homes and killing their loved ones. In the Holy Qur'an, Allah says: “When My servants ask about Me, I am indeed close to them. I listen to the prayer of every supplicant, when he calls on Me. Let them also, with a will, listen to My call, and believe in Me, so that they may walk in the right way”. God asks us to believe in His mercy and not to despair. Let us pray for peace and salvation and may the prayers of all the faithful be answered in this holy month of Ramadan. Amen — Samar Fatany is a radio broadcaster and writer. She can be reached at [email protected]
