Ramadaan values reflect peace

AS MUSLIMS mark the end of Ramadaan by celebrating Eid, they are reminded that Ramadaan was a period for self-reflection, to grow spiritually, build collectively and aid the less privileged.

Muslims must recollect the values of Ramadaan and adopt and practise its principles in their individual and collective lives.

It is important to revive the spirit of togetherness and unity, which once described the Muslims around the globe.

The challenge that extremism, materialism, consumerism, US geopolitical and imperialists’ interests in the Middle East, global conflict and bloodshed, sectarian and tribal violence and other self-destructive qualities pose to social cohesion, peace, brotherhood, unity and comradeship efforts, cannot be over-emphasised.

Every effort must be made to rise against and address social ills and other behaviours that are damaging to humans and the environment.

The Saudi-led coalition of Gulf regimes and Egypt, to break off diplomatic ties with Qatar over unfounded accusations of funding terrorist organisations, goes against the spirit of Islam. Due to family and other relations, the blockade is distressing for the territory’s people.

Muslims must reflect on the decaying situation in the Middle East, and must find lasting solutions based on the Qur’an, teachings of Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) and truth and justice. Pietermaritzburg