In his message on the advent of holy month of Ramadan, Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri has said that the holy month provides an opportunity for self-accountability. He said that the fasting could be a source of purgation of heart and purification of soul provided one abided by do’s and don’ts of the month as prescribed by Islam.

He said that fasting was not about being hungry and thirsty and its essence needed to be imbibed. One of the prime objectives of the holy month is to help the destitute and downtrodden sections of society rid themselves of difficulties of life. Welfare of people is the message, which the fasting imparts, he added.

Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri said that one of the reasons why we were confronted with multiple crises was that we focused on the form to the total neglect of essence and spirit of fasting. ‘We have allowed ourselves to be sucked into minor and meaningless debates. We have lost sight of bigger picture. This explains our travails, he stated.

Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri said that Islam taught us about human brotherhood and wellbeing. He said that it was responsibility of every Muslim to make a vow to eradicate terrorism, poverty, unemployment and promote love and peace in society.

The month of Ramadan is highly critical to understand the Islamic concept of excellence and benevolence. Hence we must make most of this opportunity to the best of our efforts, he concluded.