COLOMBO: Assalamu Alaikum (Peace be upon you)
On the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, I extend my warm greetings and felicitations to all Sri Lankan friends, particularly my beloved Muslim brothers and sisters. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, may peace, mercy and blessings be upon you all on this auspicious occasion.
Ramadan teaches us how to discipline and restrain ourselves for the sake of the Almighty Allah. Ramadan renews our will for worship and devotion to Allah. Ramadan is not an individual experience only but also a sharing experience with the community. It builds the sense of togetherness and association. Ramadan teaches us that the Muslim Ummah is all about piety and devotion and service to the humankind to overcome all kind of divides and conflicts.
May this month of Ramadan help us realize the sufferings and pains of the poor and needy and encourage us to be more generous. Let us renew our vows that we will strive against all social ills. Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the blessings of Allah and thank Him for all that He has bestowed upon us. Hope we will all be able to attain purity of soul and the great gift of Taqwa during this month.
May this Ramadan be a month of peace, joy, and spiritual enrichment for us all.
