Accra: Imam Ahmed Adjei Adjetey, the Greater Accra Regional Imam of the Ghana Muslim Mission, has called upon Muslims to remain unwavering in their faith and commitment to the truth, despite the pressures exerted by society. This call to action was made during the Mission's annual Ramadan Tafsir series, held in Accra, and draws from the lessons of the first story in Surah Al-Kahf (Quran Chapter 18), which emphasizes the trial of faith faced by the Companions of the Cave.
According to Ghana News Agency, Imam Adjetey highlighted the importance of steadfastness in faith, especially in hostile environments, during his address on the theme, 'Lessons from the First Story of Surah Al-Kahf - The Companions of the Cave.' He elaborated that life is a test, with believers encountering various trials, notably the challenge of maintaining faith. The lessons for this year's Tafsir were drawn from the four stories in Surah Al-Kahf, each illustrating a different trial: faith, wealth, knowledge, and power.
Imam Adjetey noted that some scholars regard these trials as deceptions, highlighting how easily individuals can be misled. He recounted that the story of the Companions of the Cave was revealed after the Quraish leaders in Makkah posed a challenge to Prophet Mohammed's prophethood. The revelation, which came after a delay, serves as a lesson about reliance on Allah, as captured in verses 23 and 24 of the chapter.
Further, Imam Adjetey emphasized the significance of praising and thanking Allah, citing the opening verse of Surah Al-Kahf, which begins with 'Alhamdulillah' (All praise and thanks be to Allah). He urged Muslims to express gratitude, especially for the opportunity to witness another Ramadan.
In discussing the story of the Companions of the Cave, Imam Adjetey explained how a group of young believers sought refuge from persecution in a cave, where Allah caused them to sleep for many years as protection. By quoting verse 13, he highlighted that Allah increased their guidance due to their belief, and similarly, young people who remain firm in their faith amid societal influences will receive divine guidance and success.
Imam Adjetey underscored the importance of planning and supplication, as illustrated by the youths praying for mercy and guidance before taking refuge in the cave. Verses 11 and 12 demonstrate that Allah's solutions can exceed human expectations, as shown by casting sleep over the youths for many years.
He also addressed the debate over the number of youths, citing verse 22, which states that only Allah knows their exact number, urging Muslims to focus on the lessons rather than minor details. The Quran narrates that the youths stayed in the cave for 300 solar years or 309 lunar years, showing Allah's control over time and affirming the reality of resurrection.
Imam Adjetey encouraged Muslims to engage in regular prayers, attend Jumma prayers, contribute to good causes, and help others, while trusting Allah with the outcomes. He advised, 'Do not do what people do because everybody is doing it. Be different, stand up for Allah, and In Shaa Allah you will succeed.'