Barr. Alatoye
The Amir (National Head) Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria , Barr. Alatoye Folorunso Azeez has called on Muslims to always ensure that all their actions are truly meant to bring them closer to Allah and also earn his pleasure. He made the appeal in his message marking the big sallah celebration.
He congratulated all Nigerians, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, for witnessing another Eid-ul-Adha. “This period is generally known for two reasons, namely Hajj and animal sacrifice. It is a period that cannot be missed by members of the public irrespective of religious affiliation. ”
The Eid has a lot to do with obedience and service to Allah than the symbolic sacrifice of prescribed animals. If Prophet Ibrahim (as) has not obeyed Allah’s commandment, and has not placed service to Allah beyond his emotions, we would not be celebrating Eid.
“Obedience and service are the means of attaining Allah’s pleasure. Prophet Ibrahim chose the pleasure of Allah above all other things and thus left an enduring legacy for all time. He also did not obey Allah’s directive pretensiouly but with a deep sense of submission, a fact attested to by Allah Himself.” Barr. Alatoye explained.
“”As we celebrate the Eid, every Muslim should ask himself whether his or her actions are truly meant to bring him closer to Allah and to achieve the pleasure of Allah or to get societal applause. Are we offering the sacrifice to show off the size of the animal we bought or to demonstrate our obedience to Allah and to seek His nearness and
pleasure? Did we perform the Hajj just to add the title of “Alhaji” or “Alhaja” to our names?”
He reiterated the fact that in Islam, intention matters a lot. “While our neighbours, friends, family and acquaintances may not see the intention behind our religious acts, Allah sees everything. Anything done to please Allah is regarded as service to Allah, no matter how small it may seem in our estimation, while anything done for show, status or personal benefits is devoid of Allah’s blessings, no matter how significant it may be in eyes of the public.”
The Holy Quran (chapter 5 verse 17) assures that anyone whose actions are meant to seek Allah’s pleasure, Allah will guide them on the path of peace and lead them out of every kind of darkness.
According to him, given the prevailing circumstances in our country, we should be asking ourselves if this promise is being fulfilled in our lives. Is everything we do as Muslims only for Allah’s sake? If not, should we not retrace our steps and stop the religious pretentiousness?
Of all the criminal acts happening in Nigeria, from corruption to banditry and insurgency, in which of them are Muslims not involved? Are our involvements in such cases for the pleasure of Allah or in obedience to His will? In what ways are such acts in consonant with the exemplary life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw)?
“As we distance ourselves from obedience to Allah and service in His cause, how do we court Allah’s favour and support? Let us therefore use this period for sober reflection and to reorder our priorities by placing obedience to Allah above all our desires and actions. Let us strive to please our creator and not to be applauded for acts that distance us from Allah.” Amir concluded.