Muslims adjust customary prayer and fasting for pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing the Muslim community to significantly adjust the way it observes Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

President of the Barbados Muslim Association Dr Abdul Mohamed said that while traditionally Muslims are accustomed to gathering in large groups for prayer and fellowship, particularly at mosques, they will now be required to do so at home in an effort not to breech the social distancing protocol put in place to combat the spread of COVID-19.

“With this COVID-19 everything that we are accustomed doing has changed. Obviously, like everybody else, our focus is on disease prevention and controlling disease spread. So we are complying with all the social distancing rules and protocols. Right now mosques are closed and we are praying at home.

“The usual habit and custom of getting together on evenings is also now just a dream. So this is a very different Ramadan, not only in Barbados but globally. Even in Mecca, the mosque is closed to the public and only administrative officers are praying together. This is all necessary because we have to get a hold of COVID-19,” he said.

Ramadan which started on April 25 2020, is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as the month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.

Dr Mohamed said Islam recognizes the importance of preserving life and limb, and noted that the community would do its best to work with the restrictions and necessary changes to the celebrations.

“There will be no interactions between households. Everybody will do what they have to in their own homes,” he said.

In response to the challenges brought about by the pandemic, the four main mosques on the island with generous support from members of the Muslim community donated hundreds of grocery hampers to the needy and vulnerable in their neighbourhoods and surrounding areas.

The initiative was led by Jama Mosque, the largest in Bridgetown and supported by – Madina in the City, Sobers Lane and Makki mosques.

Additionally, several individuals, groups and businesses in the Muslim community are also giving out hampers to those in need in several parts of the country.

Dr Mohamed explained that the campaign from the community is in keeping with Islamic teachings which instruct Muslims to share with their neighbours.

“Our faith tells you that a true believer would not let his neighbours go hungry and that he should not be at peace unless his neighbour is at peace. So we have to reach out and help as much as we can and do as much as we can,” Dr Mohamed said. anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb