An Islamic Scholar, Dr. Ibrahim Uthman, has described discipline, Quran recitation and midnight prayers as the primary objective of fasting, urging Muslims to fear Allah during and after the Ramadan fast.
Uthman, a lecturer in the Arabic and Islamic Department, University of Ibadan, disclosed this at the Pre-Ramadan lecture entitled: “Getting Ready for Ramadan.”
It was organised by the Bodija Estates Muslim Youth Forum.
Uthman said: “My brothers and sisters, the best preparation for Ramadan is discipline.
“Also, there is no action you can take because of Allah except fasting.
“There is none of such actions that is not affected by external and worldly factors but fasting is divinely ordained with prescribed rules.”
Uthman said that those who observe the fasting, pray in the midnight and observe the night of destiny (Lailatul Quadri) shall have all their sins forgiven.
Uthman said observing the midnight prayer and reading the Holy Quran during Ramadan brings maximum reward from the Almighty God (Allah).
He stressed the need for Muslims to take proper care of their health also, saying the rules of Ramadan were such that should be adhered to strictly everyday of every man’s life.
The Islamic scholar called for re-orientation on ways fasting is observed for maximum
reward, highlighting discipline, reading of the Quran, remembrance of God and midnight prayers as the best in fasting.
The BOMYOF Chairman, Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Balogun, in his welcome address said the association was inaugurated on May 24 to bring Muslim youths together and for guidance towards the righteous path.
Balogun said the programme was to prepare the youths for the Ramadan fasting, adding that it would also strengthen BOMYOF’s existence and the spiritual development of the youths.
Balogun said the association has planned several programmes for the Ramadan such as tafsir (sermon sessions) and Iftar (breaking of fast).
“Also, we have planned counselling session for both academic and moral development, likewise other educational programmes,” Balogun added.
He said that not less than 350 youths attend the various sessions of Islamic Centre at the Bodija Estate Mosque, urging well meaning members of the society to support the cause.
Alhaji Muniru Ademola, the Proprietor of Qibla Group of Schools, Ibadan and Chairman of the occasion, described the idea of BOMYOF as a unique development.
Ademola said such effort would enhance the spiritual, academic and moral development of the youths, urging other Islamic bodies to cue into the idea.
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