Second Ramadan in lockdown

The current Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over, and it is unquestionably too soon to believe that the coronavirus curve has been flattened. The coming of the pandemic in 2020, besides producing huge uncertainty and anxiety, presented new trials, challenges and affected the way of life for everyone.

This is the second Ramadan to take place under an unpleasant or cold environment created by the pandemic. However, values such as God consciousness, deep personal self-reflection and increased prayers and the importance of self-control, sacrifice, spirituality, kindness and compassion and empathy and generosity towards the less privileged that the month of Ramadan teaches Muslims and promotes, still remains the same.

Ramadan in 2020 was very unusual and had been incredibly unfamiliar. With the current decreased lockdown regulations and relaxations on communal worship, Muslims can now, cautiously, easily satisfy Ramadan commandments as prescribed by the Quran and practices of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

Sadly, difficult days are facing some Muslim communities as Islamophobia becomes more widespread in countries like France. Regrettably, some humans become less tolerant towards people of different religions, cultures and race groups.

As Ramadan approaches, Muslims should rise up to the challenges and latch onto the powerful teachings of their faith to express their religious and moral duty towards all of humanity against the harsh and inhuman policies manufactured by fascists leaders and their followers.

Mohamed Saeed