Muslims ask to seek peace, promote positive attitudes

The Vice Imam of the Douala Central Mosque led Muslims in prayers on June 6, 2016.

One of the most important pillars of Islam, fasting, is being observed in Cameroon since June 6, 2016.

In Douala, the Vice Imam of the Douala Central Mosque, Cheikh Mohaman Awal Adam, said the first prayers, calling on Muslims to seek peace and promote positive attitudes. He said they should understand why they are fasting.

Fasting, according to Muslims, entails taking no food or drink from sunrise till sunset, on purpose.

During the obligatory Ramadan fast that lasts 30 days, Muslims are expected to be of exemplary behaviour, avoid discussions on social media, and not eat and drink much as it might hinder them from worshiping and praying.

Also during the Holy Month, Muslims are advised to avoid useless discussions that might provoke covetousness, cultivate a forgiving and sharing spirit.

They are also to try to occupy frontline positions in worship grounds, pray fervently for personal peace and the neighbourhood, nation and the world; as well as read the Holy Book often and respect other Muslims and non-Muslims.

The day-to-day life of a Muslim during Ramadan starts and ends with daily prayers - 5.30 am, 12.30 pm, 3.45 pm, 6.30 pm and 7.45 pm, including the “Taraweh prayer.”

Though aged people, nursing mothers, the sick, menstruating women and travellers are exempted from fasting, they have a catch-up period, except for old people.