Strive to practise excellence in faith this Ramadan – CIOG President

President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad called on Muslims to strive to practice Ihsan or excellence in faith during this holy month of Ramadan.
In expressing Ramadan greetings, Ahmad said that Ramadan bestows the opportunity to purify one’s body, mind, and heart so that they can get closer to Allah (SWT) who is the source of all peace and happiness.
“During Ramadan, our faith (Iman) is manifested through acts of obedience (Islam). We willingly submit to the guidance of Allah (SWT), who made it known in the Holy Quran Chapter 2: Verse: 183: ‘O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard (against evil).’ During this Ramadan, let us also strive to practice Ihsan (excellence in faith). Ihsan refers to the attainment of perfection, beauty or excellence, in worship and in actions. To achieve this, our every thought and actions must have the intent of being perfectly pleasing to Allah (SWT). In response to questioning from the Angel Jibreel, our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) affirmed: ‘Excellence is to worship Allah as if you see him, for if you do not see him, he surely sees you.’ (Vol 1, Book 2, Hadith 48),” the Islamic Scholar noted.
The CIOG President noted that when excellence in faith is practiced then it allows one to be steadfast in the conviction that loving and obeying Allah (SWT) brings them perfect guidance, protection, and wellbeing. He urged Muslims to express their love to Allah (SWT) by being kind to one another while comforting those who are sick, sad or afraid.
“Feed those who are hungry. Protect the orphans, widows, and elderly. Be kind and compassionate to all people, animals, and the universe. Be caring of the environment, the trees and plants that provide us with oxygen and sustenance. When we display mercy and love, then we shall receive same in return. I pray that Allah (SWT) gives us the strength and health to fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan and to stand in prayers during the nights of Ramadan,” he wished.