Pray for Ghana’s prosperity – Bawumia tells Muslims ahead of Ramadan
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has urged his fellow Muslims across the country to use the holy month of Ramadan to pray for loved ones and the nation’s growth.
In a Facebook message, Dr Bawumia sent well wishes to all Muslims as they begin the annual fasting and prayer on Tuesday, April 13.
“Let us use this period of devotion and purity to pray for the continuous peace and prosperity of our country and the well-being of loved ones,” he stated.
He also reiterated the need for Muslims to be “mindful of the presence of COVID-19 and continue to observe the safety protocols, especially in our various mosques.”
The month of Ramadan is a special month of fasting and prayer observed by Muslims across the world to renew their faith.
Ramadan is the Arabic name for the ninth month in the Islamic calendar.
It is considered one of the holiest Islamic months.
It’s also one of the Five Pillars of Islam. These are five principles that Muslims believe are compulsory acts ordered by God.
Muslims believe that some of the first verses of the Islamic holy book, the Qu’ran, were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during the month of Ramadan. Extra emphasis is placed on reciting the Qu’ran at this time.
Fasting is considered an act of worship, enabling Muslims to feel closer to God and strengthen their spiritual health and self-discipline.
How does this work in practice?
Muslims have an early morning meal before dawn, known as suhoor or sehri.
They break their fast after sunset for the evening meal, called iftar or fitoor.
Ramadan is also a time when Muslims are encouraged to give to charity, strengthen their relationship with God, and show kindness and patience.
During this month, believers also head to the mosque for an additional night prayer called Taraweeh. This is only held during Ramadan.