A peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza is on top of the list of prayers of the Muslim community in Dumaguete City during the holy month of Ramadan this year.
Dumaguete City community affairs officer Dionie Amores, who is a congregant of Masjidus Salam in Barangay Bagacay, said they worry for their Muslim brothers and sisters who are affected by the ongoing war in Gaza.
“Bug-at na sa amo (ang) nahitabo in Gaza especially (sa) mga igsoon namong mga Muslim,” said Amores.
(We are also troubled with what’s happening in Gaza and we are worried, especially for our Muslim brethren.)
She said a special prayer for the non-violent conclusion to the Israel-Gaza attacks is offered in their Taraweeh or evening prayers during this year's Ramadan observance, and in Duaa, when Muslims convene at the mosque every Friday to worship Allah.
“Hopefully there will be peace. We do Duaa prayers for our brothers and sisters especially for the children na affected ana na giyera karon (who are affected by the war). They are also human beings,” said Amores.
Journalist Roy August “Abdul Rauf” Bustillo, also a congregant of Masjidus Salam, shared that their community is also doing what they can to help the victims of the attacks.
“The Gaza genocide conflict is a worldwide concern not only to Muslims but to Christians as well. Prayers and donations are the priority especially to the Palestinians affected,” said Bustillo.
Life of prayer, fasting
Muslims embrace a life of prayer and fasting for 30 days during Ramadan. Amores and Bustillo describe this as a period for Muslims to deepen their connection to Allah through ardent prayers and fasting, which always go together.
“You have to pray five times especially in Ramadan because useless ang imong fasting kung wala kay five times na prayer,” Amores said.
(You have to pray five times, especially in Ramadan. Fasting is useless if you don’t pray.)
“It is Biblical. Jesus (Peace be upon Him) fasted for 40 days and night. He discerned and prayed to deepen the relationship with your Creator. So as in Islam,” Bustillo added.