Ramadan in Montenegro has always been a time in which the value of multiethnic and multireligious harmony is particularly confirmed, and its values are universal and necessary for every society, said the head of the Islamic Community, Rifat Fejzić.
He congratulated all Muslims in Montenegro and the diaspora on the upcoming blessed month of Ramadan.
"Thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, who out of His mercy once again grants us the opportunity to welcome the blessed month of Ramadan, the month of fasting, the Quran, mercy and forgiveness. May the blessings and peace of Allah be upon the last Messenger of Allah, Muhammad, peace be upon him, his honorable family and all his followers until the Day of Judgment," reads Fejzić's Ramadan message.
He said that tonight, with the evening prayer, they are entering a chosen time that fills the hearts of believers with special peace and hope.
According to Fejzić, Ramadan is not just a month of giving up food and drink, but above all a month of returning to oneself, one's family, and one's Lord.
"It is a time when we learn to be better people – more patient, more noble and more caring towards others," said Fejzić.
Fasting, he said, reminds us of the value of patience, but also of responsibility towards those in need.
"Therefore, let Ramadan be an opportunity to open our hearts, strengthen our bonds, reconcile those who are at odds, and help those who need help," Fejzić said.
He said that, "in this blessed month, the Quran began to be revealed as a guidance to mankind."
"May our homes therefore be filled with his teachings, and our lives with his messages. May Ramadan be a time in which we renew our faith, strengthen our families, and strengthen our unity," Fejzić said.
He emphasized that Ramadan in Montenegro has always been and remains a time in which the value of multi-ethnic and multi-religious harmony is especially confirmed.
"In the days of fasting and the evenings of iftar, we witness that diversity is not an obstacle, but a wealth that ennobles and connects us. Therefore, let Ramadan be an opportunity to further strengthen mutual respect, neighborly closeness and trust among all people, witnessing that peace, understanding and solidarity are the foundation of sustainability and progress," said Fejzić.
Ramadan, he said, carries a message of goodness not only for Muslims, but for all people.
Fejzić emphasized that the values of Ramadan - mercy, solidarity, restraint and care for others - are universal and necessary for every society.
"Therefore, let this month be an incentive for all of us to be better towards each other, to spread the word of peace and build a society in which every person will be respected, safe and dignified," said Fejzić.
He said that, at the same time, we must not forget those around the world who are celebrating Ramadan in difficult circumstances – exiled, oppressed, deprived of their homes and basic dignity.
"I pray to Almighty Allah to accept our good deeds, forgive our sins and grant us the strength to emerge from Ramadan more noble as individuals, more responsible as a society and more determined to contribute to good, to be bearers of peace, builders of trust and guardians of the dignity of every human being," reads Fejzić's Ramadan message.
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