No benefit to die during Ramadan

It would have been helpful to the reader for the reporter to have stated the origin of this bit of nonsense which, if it were true, would infer that just by moving on from this earthly life during the highly auspicious month of Ramadan would ensure eternal bliss for the deceased.

It is a fundamental belief in Islam that believers will be judged by their intentions and actions while alive, and a “free pass” will only be given by Allah Almighty on the day of judgment based on a Muslim’s sincere belief or aqeedah, and their adherence to the laws of Islam (fiqh).

And one of the first things which will be asked of the believer on the day of judgment will be his performance of salah, that is the five daily prayers along with his belief in the oneness of Allah, fasting during Ramadan, zakah (legislated charity) and pilgrimmage to the Holy House (Makkah) at least once in a lifetime, if possible.

Dying during Ramadan brings no benefit to the Muslim believer according to the Qur’an or authentic hadith of the Prophet Muhammad.

I hope this information proves useful and that greater care will be taken by your reporters in the future to reference their reports with information gleaned by credible sources who have no fear of being named in this most important matter of our religion, whose misinterpretation/ opinion can do much harm if left unchallenged.

IMTIAZ MOHAMMED general secretary Ummah T&T