An experience to remember for Muslims

EID-UL-FITR (marking the end of Ramadaan) is an occasion where communities come together to pray in mosques, feed the less privileged and visit family and friends.

With just a few days left of Ramadaan, I have been deliberating about Eid prayers and what the Eid atmosphere will be around homes due to the lockdown and physical distancing.

Will Muslims be able to pray in mass gatherings on open-air grounds or mosques and visit the cemetery to pray for their loved ones? Can we celebrate with family and friends? These were some of the questions and wishful thinking going through my mind.

Eid rituals will have to be celebrated privately or as my son suggested “use technology such as video calls – e-eid”.

Just as how Muslim communities have temporarily innovated by finding alternative ways of observing Ramadaan at home, similarly we will now need to prepare for celebrating Eid largely at home, with limited outdoor interaction.

Naturally, Muslims will feel downhearted at the thought of not being able to gather for Eid prayers and at the customary extended family Eid meal tables. I firmly believe that this Covid-19 test is from Almighty, will end soon, and there will be once again ease.

In these unprecedented circumstances, it is a priority that public health be put first and in keeping with the current government regulations. Muslim religious leaders around the globe are unanimous that Islam dictates the protection of life, to follow rule of law and to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.

As practices impose and we prepare for the Eid celebration with lovely clothes, followed by sumptuous meals, we should not forget the less privileged human beings.

Like Ramadaan, Eid during Covid-19 will also be of a different kind for Muslims, an unforgettable experience that will one day be shared with future generations.

| MOHAMED SAEED Pietermaritzburg