Receptions held by pilgrims on their return from the Haj are part of a well-established tradition in many Islamic culture. They are of special importance as they contain religious, cultural and social aspects.
Pilgrims express their gratitude to God for facilitating the performance of the Haj rituals, and offer invitations and blessings to family and friends which strengthen spiritual ties between members of the society.
Each society has its own traditions of receiving pilgrims and these celebrations help renew social relations and strengthen ties between members of society. Pilgrims share their experiences and situations during the Haj, increasing religious awareness among others.
It is also customary for pilgrims to distribute souvenirs such as rosaries and holy water from Zamzam.
However, it was disturbing to watch social media video clips of one of the pilgrims holding a reception as if it were a wedding, featuring a DJ, filming and editing! In addition, huge sums of money are spent on the decor, food and drinks which is an extravagance which even God Almighty, I am sure, does not approve of.
I do not know to what extent such wrong behaviours and practices have reached in our society.
Wouldn’t it have been better to spend this money on the poor and needy?
It is unfortunate that we are so stingy in helping people who are in dire need of money for food and drink. We read and watch about many tragedies unfolding all over the world and do not lift a finger to help!
Many people have become selfish to an extent that is unbelievable and unacceptable. They have lost their sense of empathy and have even become blind!
Islam urges us to do good and help others, but many of us think performing religious rituals is enough.
We have mastered the art of blind imitation, without realising we are imitating wrong practices. How I hope that we imitate people who are superior to us in science, knowledge, culture, civilisation and correct practices, even if they do not belong to our religion. There is no harm in blindly imitating others in what is useful, to be a wonderful and uplifting addition to our societies. These matters have nothing to do with religion, and the rational person is the one who copies what is beneficial to him and his country!
I am certain that if this woman behaves shamefully, many will imitate her, more so to prove that they are better than her! Everyone knows the impact of social media has on people’s psyche.
Waste is a problem that requires concerted efforts to reduce it. Through awareness and adoption of more sustainable lifestyles, we can reduce the effects of waste and work to build more stable and prosperous societies.
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