By: Comrade Lekan Badmus.
Alm is defined as something given freely to the needy and the less – privileged. It is a charismatic gift to; not only the vulnerable but those in dire needs. Alm is an act of extending love to the others and it is something that must be given with lots of enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, giving alm in anticipation of returns is a negation of the spirit and tenets of alm. Alm is devoid of reciprocation. It is not a gesture that should be seen as trade by barter. The intent of alm is to bring succour and palliative to the poor.
In Islam, alm is the third of the five pillars of Islam. It is called ZAKAT. The other four are: Sahada ( absolute faith in the oneness and supremacy of Allah) Salat( prayer) Sawm(fasting during Ramadan) and Hajj( pilgrimage).
Zakat is accepted by Muslims globally irrespective of ethnic, regional or sectarian differences. It is charitable and considered obligatory. A Muslim does not need to be a millionaire before he could give alms.
The religious practice of Islam is based on the five pillars to which every Muslim should adhere. They are fundamental expression of Islam beliefs.
Armed on the other hand is a situation where people are equipped with weapons. A person who is armed is given an order to attack. This order may be warped in sinister or primordial motive.
Armed in the context of this article is not the legal security operatives who are constitutionally armed to defend the corporate existence of the nation and protect citizens lives and properties.
While ALM is humanitarian, ARMED is destructive. Alm signifies humane feeling but armed breeds chaos, anarchy and throws caution into the wind.
ISLAM is synonymous with PEACE.
However, peace seems to have eluded the nation. The incessant attacks and general insecurity in the land is worrisome. This has retarded the growth of individuals, corporate organizations and the nation. DisgustingIy, most of the crises plaguing the nation are orchestrated. However, it is un-Islamic for any Muslim to incite and instigate violence under whatever pretence. It is archaic and myopic to ascribe violence to JIHAD. The essence of JIHAD is for Muslims to be agents of desirable changes. We have got to be at the forefront of reorientation of values and virtues.
The Ileya festival has afforded us another opportunity to search our conscience and reconcile with Allah. To err is human. Every human being is infallible and an embodiment of woes cum inequities. We are not saints and so have to show remorse. Confess our sins and request for forgiveness with the mindset never to sin anymore.
Ileya should not be restricted to merriment. It calls for sober reflection and pensive mood.
None of us has the wherewithal to fight for God. In what capacity ? Have you removed the tick on your eyes before attempting to remove from others’ eyes! Who tells you are righteous!
Semi Allahu moni- hamida.
On a finality, every Muslim needs to respect the constituted authorities – our leaders. From the president to the governors and the Kings. We should be guided by Quranic injunctions. The leaders and followers have a great and complementary roles to play. Act well your part.
Islam does not forbid us from criticising the policies of the governnents but it has to be a constructive one. Our actions should not be channelled towards pulling any leader down. Our sense of reasoning and logic should not be blindfolded by politics and religious sentiment.
Government on the other hand should justify the confidence reposed in them by the voters. Fear of God should be your watchword. Your ascension to that coveated seat is not as a result of your political dexterity and sagacity. It is never by your wisdom.
Your Excellencies and Royal majesties, you are not qualified. God qualified you.
May Allah Continue to be our pathfinder and may peace and development in all ramifications sprout in the land.
Ma Salam !
Comrade Lekan Badmus is a freelance writer and public opinion analyst.
