Special Articles By The Community
Importance Of Volunteerism
An ingredient vital to the growth and development of our community
In Surah al-Ankabut, Ayat 69, Allah says, “And as for those who strive in our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.
The Holy Qur’an entreats us to help those around us, noting its potential to bring us closer to Allah (SWT). It is an undeniable fact that our community would not be where it is today without the tireless efforts of our founding fathers who in the early days of settlement worked together to achieve a successful community.
They contributed in a tangible way to the spiritual and physical development of the community. Many of them sacrificed their lives to safeguard Islam and the community at large. They spent their wealth for the cause of Islam and the well-being of their fellow community and ummah at large.
This influence and dedication no doubt has instilled self esteem, team work, leadership skills and confidence for many years.
It is clear from the foregone that: Islam is a religion that cares for the welfare of all humans and calls its members to participate in volunteer activities without awaiting any reward from them but only from Allah (SWT) whose pleasure should be the primary motive for volunteering time and money or goods to help others. It is one of many characteristics by which a believer is identified.
Volunteerism is also an important part of being a member of a community because it not only helps individuals but aids the community as a whole.
It allows people to know that they will have support in the community when they go through difficult times and to do whatever to serve the community and create the best community for the advent of Al-Hujjah (AJTFS) and signifies service as a deep expression of faith.
A piece by the Hon. General Secretary, Dr Husseinali Datoo
The Blessings of the Holy Month of Rajab
Chapter 9 of the Holy Quran which is Surah Tawba, Verse 36 says: “Verily the number of months with Allah is twelve months in the Book of Allah, (since) the day He created the heavens and the earth, four of them are sacred. That is the established religion. So be you not unjust unto yourselves during them. And fight polytheists totally even as they fight you totally, and know that Allah is with the pious ones.”
The four sacred months that are mentioned here are Dhul-Qadah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. The Holy Prophet (SAWW) has said: “Rajab is the month of Allah, Sha‘ban is my month and Ramadan is the month of my Ummah.” We need to pay special attention to the month that bears this honor.
Our deeds weigh heavier on the scales during these four months. Allah commands us: ‘Do not wrong yourselves during them,’ because it is grave to commit a sin during a sacred month. Equally, it becomes more rewardable to perform a good deed!
A few things to do in the month of Rajab are:
• Repent for your sins – Our 5th Imam, Imam Muhammed Al Baqir who is also born in this holy month says: “One who repents from sin is like the one who has not sinned.” So we should make the most of this month and seek forgiveness with sincerity and gain Allah’s mercy.
• Observe fasts – Observing fast during this month brings rewards and virtues. It is believed that the Holy Prophet (SAWW) said any person who fasts for a day during Rajab will be rewarded from Ridwan, an angel in heaven. For such people, the doors of hell will close, and from them, the wrath of God will be distanced.
• Give charity – Offering charity to those who need it not only earns rewards in this life but also in the journey hereafter. So helping others and offering charity is recommended.
There are now only two months to go until the Holy Month of Ramadhan! It is essential that we start preparing from now, laying the foundations of good habits and making a plan of action for this blessed month.
Compiled by: Sakina Raza and Aaliya Parpia
Development Society Student Council Girls Team
