Countdown To Koriteh

In a week’s time Muslims in The Gambia will join the rest of the Muslim Ummah in observing the Koriteh feast.

This day will, of course, mark the end of this year’s holy month of Ramadan-a month of fasting and religious piety.

Festivities on this auspicious occasion are many and do vary.

They include congregational prayers, get-together, visiting friends, family members and love ones.

People also use the occasion to supplicate God’s forgiveness, pray for each other, as well as the dead.

Some use the special day to forgive each other, as well renew their friendship.

On this feast most people, both young and old, prefer putting on new clothes.

However, one thing that is clear is that it’s not mandatory for everyone to wear new clothes on this day. Though it’s recommended for one to put on clean clothes, it should not necessarily be a new one.

Our concern here is that, ahead of this day some women and children give tough time to their husbands and parents.

They demand for expensive clothes just because their friends and neighbours have one. This is ridiculous! Such people often do not understand the economic condition of their families. It’s imperative for such people to know that “it’s good to cut their clothes according to their sizes”.

People should always appreciate what they have and not to look at what others have.

Another concern is that some people cook more than what they consume, and at the end of the day throw away incalculable leftovers.

This is bad and people should try and put a stop to it.

As Muslims we should try and maintain the good deeds we do during this month and extend it to other months.  It’s a month that can transform people and make them fear Allah in all their dealings.

We should bear in mind that God is with us throughout.

It’s worth mentioning that during this last ten days of the Ramadan, there exist a very powerful night called Lailatul Kadir (the night of power).

It’s said that worshiping during this day is more than worshiping thousand months. So, we need to work hard and intensify our worshiping. If possible attend the nightlong prayers at mosques because it worth it.

People should also be mindful of thieves when going out for shopping as the formers also capitalise on such chances.