Accra: Alhaji Ahmed Zumari, Chairman of the Volta Regional Council of Zabarma Chiefs, has called on Muslims to seek holiness and exercise discipline as they observe the holy month of Ramadan. He emphasized the importance of viewing Ramadan as a time for spiritual purification and self-restraint, urging the faithful to adhere strictly to the teachings of the Holy Quran to attract peace and blessings from Allah.
According to Ghana News Agency, Alhaji Zumari, in a message marking the beginning of the fasting season, reminded Muslims that Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for every able Muslim. The month, which begins and ends with the sighting of the new moon, requires Muslims to abstain from food, drink, sexual relations, and all social vices from dawn to sunset.
Quoting from the Holy Quran, Chapter 2, Verse 183, he noted that fasting is prescribed for believers to help them attain piety and consciousness of Allah. He explained that while fasting is compulsory, Islam makes provisions for those whose age, health conditions, or other genuine circumstances prevent them from fasting.
Alhaji Zumari urged Muslims to embrace Ramadan as an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and moral excellence. He encouraged the faithful to increase acts of charity, prayers, and recitation of the Quran, while avoiding behaviors that could undermine the sanctity of the holy month.
The Zabarma Chief also highlighted the social importance of Ramadan, noting that it strengthens unity and compassion among Muslims as families and communities gather to break the fast and pray together at mosques. He appealed to Muslims in the Volta Region and across the country to use the period to pray for peace, unity, and national development.