Rural Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein, a devout member of the Muslim community, has extended Eid Mubarak greetings to his brothers and sisters ofthe faith.

Hosein said having completed fasting on the day of Arafah, Muslims are reminded that the most significant prayer is that performed on this day where Prophet Mohammed recited: There is nothing that deserves to be worshipped in truth except Allah, He is Alone and has no partner, to Him belongs the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is All-Powerful over all things.

He said for Muslims who are not performing Hajj, fasting on the day of Arafah rewards forgiveness for two years.

The Minister further explained that Eid-Ul-Adha is the greater of both Eids with the 10-day fast being more significant than that which occurs during the month of Ramadan.

One of the primary reasons for this is because Eid Ul-Adha commemorates Prophet Abrahams unyielding commitment to his faith, through his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail. Before he could carry out the sacrifice, Allah recognized his act of devotion and intervened, providing a lamb as an offering to take Ismails place.

It also marks the end of the holy pilgrimage where billions of Muslims across the world would come together to give honour to the spirit of sacrifice.

Health precautions implemented to stem the spread of COVID-19 have unfortunately preventedthe annual pilgrimage making the Hajj impossible for many.

Notwithstanding this obstacle, my fellow brothers and sisters in Islam remain grateful for the opportunity to worship at our mosques in the company of our friends and families. Similar to last months Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, this sacred occasion teaches us that our sacrifices are always rewarded by Almighty Allah (swt).

Despite practitioners of Islam being unable to complete Hajj, Eid-Ul-Adha brought us both a physical and spiritual lesson in sacrifice. I truly believe that because of our discipline, sacrifice and faith in the Almighty, we were able to celebrate this observance in a more profound manner. COVID-19 has taught us that we as Muslims must continue to seek redemption, to forgive and be forgiven. It has also reminded us that every sacrifice that we make in our lives often leads to a greater reward.

Hosein said he has drawn closer to Allahover the past few months, with his appreaciation for his loved ones increasing exponentially. He said he also has a greater desire to continue helping those less fortunate in his community and his country by extension.

This experience has showed us the value of simple devotion, reminding us that sacrifice is a key aspect of not only spiritual development but also spiritual renewal.

On behalf of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government, I extend Eid-Ul-Adha greetings to ournational Muslim community at home and abroad, and wish for all citizens of our beloved nation peace, good health and prosperity for every day of your journey through life.

Originally posted here:

Rural Development Minister: Eid-Ul-Adha brings spiritual renewal - Loop News Trinidad and Tobago