ACJU/FRL/2020/19-236

2020.10.26

1442.03.08

The Coronavirus (COVID 19) has spread across many countries in the world causing great inconvenience to the people. Its impact is also seen in our country. Accordingly, we are aware that quarantine curfew is imposed across many parts of the country.

By decreeing trials upon His slaves, Almighty Allah expects and prefers them to turn towards Him. In order to seek relief from these trials, we must engage in good deeds such as Prayers, Fasting, Dua (Supplications), Dhikr, Isthighfar (Seeking Forgiveness) and Sadaqa and revert towards Allah.

There are many Saheeh Hadeeths which narrates that Prophet (PBUH) has recited Qunooth An-Naazilah during times of tribulation. Based on this, Religious scholars have acknowledged that reciting Qunooth An-Naazilah during times of an epidemic is a Sunnah.

Hence, to seek protection from Almighty Allah from the effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Sri Lanka, the ACJU urges the Masjids to arrange recital of Qunooth An-Naazilah during the five times Prayers for a period of one month, and those who pray at home are also encouraged to do the same. The Imams are requested to recite the following Duas (supplications) in addition to the regular Qunooth Dua recited during the Fajr prayer, in each prayer.

Ash Shaikh M.L.M. Ilyas

Secretary - Fatwa Division

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

Special Statement Video of All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alaihi WaSallam) which was a blessing to the entire mankind

Presented By : Ash-Shaikh Arkam Nooramith

                     Secretary

                     Youth Division - ACJU

03.06.2020 CE / 11.10.1441 AH

Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

Astronomy reports have stated, that the ‘Penumbral Lunar Eclipse’ shall occur on 05^th and 06^th of June 2020 (Friday and Saturday). Furthermore, it is stated that the penumbral lunar eclipse might be visible in Sri Lanka on Friday night according to Colombo time 11:15 PM up to Saturday early morning 2:34 AM In Sha Allah.

When a Penumbral Lunar Eclipse occurs, a nebulous situation will be visible in the moon. As the moon will not be covered fully or partially, the eclipse prayer is not performed. It is performed only if the moon is covered partially or completely. Therefore, kindly note that there is no need to perform prayer for this Penumbral Lunar Eclipse.

Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: The sun and the moon are two signs of Allah; they are not eclipsed on account of anyone’s death or on account of anyone's birth. So when you see them, glorify and supplicate Allah, observe prayer, give alms.

(Saheehul Bukhari-1044)

Ash-Shaikh M. Abdul Wahhab

Coordinator - Hilaal Division

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

ACJU/NGS/2020/007

2020.04.20 (1441.08.26)

Regarding the Heinous Terror Attack on Easter Sunday Last Year - 2019

We wish to express our intense grief and emotional pain, along with entire Nation in sadly commemorating the barbaric suicidal terror attacks that took place on Easter Sunday on the 21^st of April 2019. We reiterate, that we vehemently condemn this inhuman cruel deed, in the strongest possible terms.

We also extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives and those who were injured, and we pray to Almighty that all those who are suffering due to the loss of their loved ones, to be blessed with solace and to be compensated with all forms of good fortune in life.

There is no dissent to the fact that, the massacre of innocent worshippers who were involved in prayers at their places of worship, and those of the public, was an act that was completely antithetical to the teachings of Islam. The perpetrators were the enemies of humanity. Whoever were involved in these crimes must be punished.

The Holy Quran states “….whoever kills a person not in retaliation for a person killed, nor (as a punishment) for spreading disorder on the earth, is as if he has killed the whole of humankind and whoever saves the life of a person is as if he has saved the life of the whole of humankind….” Surah Ma’idah Verse 32.

It is well known that any religion including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam does not endorse nor approve violence. However, considering the followers of any religion, there are those who engage in evil and destructive activities in the name of their religion but they are completely contradictory to the teachings of their respective religious beliefs. On this basis, it should be noted that based on the despicable activities of some misguided individuals, it is not fair to evaluate a particular religious belief or its followers

We take this opportunity to extend our whole hearted appreciation to His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith for the commendable efforts in consoling the community and to those who were effected for adopting calmness and peace, which prevented a repercussion against the Muslim community.

Furthermore we wish to emphasize that, as children of this Motherland, it is important that we make efforts to resolve our concerns and ease out our differences in opinions through mutual dialogue.

Let us all realize that it is the time for all of us to arise, beyond religious, language and regional differences, as Sri Lankans, to unite and build our nation.

May Allah protect our nation from all dangers and disasters! May He make this a garden of serenity where peace and tranquility prevails!

Ash Shaikh M.M.A. Mubarak

General Secretary - ACJU

ACJU/NGS/2020/003

17.04.2020 (23.08.1441)

Ramadhaan Guidance in the prevailing situation

Allah has honoured the Month of Ramadhaan by the revelation of the Holy Quran. Ramadan is a month of patience and Dua. This is a month where we Muslims, should be engaged abundantly in good deeds, under the guidance of the Ulama, with much enthusiasm and calmness.

Unlike the past, we are expecting Ramadhaan this year, under a very different context. Due to the ongoing COVID 19 virus pandemic most of the countries have shut down. We are aware that the Government of our country also has taken various measures to curb the spread of this disease, and has implemented curfews in-order to prevent public gatherings completely.

Hence, as Muslims who honour the laws of our country, the ACJU kindly urges all the Muslims to adhere to the following guidelines, when engaging in good deeds during the month of Ramadhaan,

Important etiquettes and guidelines to be followed during the Month of Ramadhaan:

1. As a blessed month in which Duas are accepted, prayers should be made for the relief from the difficult situation that has gripped the world, for the return of normalcy in the lives of people, for the fulfilment of our needs and for the people of our country to be blessed with a bountiful life. The auspicious the times of ‘Iftaar’ (breaking of fast), Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), and the time between Azan and Iqamath should be utilized in engaging in Duas in abundance.

2. As the Month of the revelation of the Holy Quran, a close relationship with the Quran should be developed. It is an obligation upon us to engaging in the recitation of the Quran, to practice upon its teachings in our lives and to disseminate its teachings to others as well.

• A guidance will be issued by the Maktab Headoffice for the students of Maktab and Quran Madrasas, for the recitation of the Quran daily. Accordingly we request the cooperation of the parents to guide and motivate the children to implement it in an effective manner.

• Imams, Madrasa Usthads, Maktab Mu’allims, Mu’allimaas and Mu’aawins are all requested to make maximum utilization of this period. Those who are able to use Social Media platforms in a proper manner, are urged to facilitate in reciting, teaching, and the learning of the Quran for the public; this is an essential need of the hour.

• Every individual must engage in reciting the Quran in abundance, and at least make an effort to complete one Juzu daily.

3. Considering the current circumstances, engage in the five obligatory prayers, Taraweeh and other prayers in congregation within the household members only. Strictly avoid joining or inviting neighbours for the prayers.

4. Prepare a time table for the family on daily prayers, A’mals and other house work, and ensure it is implemented among all members in the family.

5. As instructed earlier, avoid conducting five obligatory prayers, Jumu’ah prayers and gathering any other congregational activities at Masjids until further notice. Trustees of the Masjids are strongly emphasised to strictly abide by the related guidelines issued by the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs and the Waqf Board.

6. Adhere to the guidelines which were already jointly issued by the ACJU, Police Headquarters and other institutions.

7. Much attention should be given to the performing acts of worships and observing night prayers at home and thereby refraining from wasting of time. Especially avoid wasting time on Social Media and other unnecessary matters.

8. Refrain from indulging in arguments over matters which are subjected to differences of opinion and follow the guidance of Ulama calmly.

• The booklet on ‘Unity Declaration’ issued by the ACJU should be read and shared with others as well.

• The Book ‘Social Unity – Need of the hour and a Religious obligation’ (Tamil) published by ACJU should be read and benefitted.

9. Since people who depend on daily wages are unable to fulfil their daily needs, engage and expedite the Masjid centred relief activities.

• As bearers of humanity, the needy should be identified and our Sadaqa and Hadiya contributions should be made to all, regardless of religious and racial differences.

• Those who are eligible to give Zakat, should consult the Ulama and receive proper guidance to execute it in the appropriate manner.

10. Those who wish to engage in relief activities and to assist the poor, should contact the nearest Police Station and obtain necessary permissions to do so.

11. While engaging in night prayers at homes, especially during the time of Suhoor, it should be ensured that no disturbances are caused to others in the neighbourhood, and the volumes of the Radios and Televisions should be sufficient enough for the household only.

12. The Ulama and the prominent people of the locality, should pay special attention towards guiding the Youth, and to implement all possible efforts to guide them to spend their time in activities pleasing to Allah.

13. According to religious guidance, one’s fast is not invalidated due to the swallowing of saliva.

Yet the chest phlegm or mucus should be discharged and cannot be swallowed. Health officials have warned that it is possible that Coronavirus infection could spread through them. Hence, spitting at public places should be avoided and special attention should be given in following the health guidelines.

14. With regard to implementing the above guidelines and advices all ACJU Divisional Branch members, Masjid Trustees and the Muslim community are kindly requested to cooperate.

Therefore, let us follow these guidelines and gain the utmost blessings from this Holy Month of Ramadhaan.

May Almighty Allah protect us all from this Coronavirus that has afflicted the entire world, and Bless our Motherland with unity, peaceful coexistence and understanding among all people!

Wassalam.

Ash Shaikh M.M.A. Mubarak

General Secretary - ACJU

2020.04.01

ACJU expresses its disappointment with regard to revising the method of disposal of the COVID-19 bodies

We, the ACJU, along with Muslim Community, express our disappointment to the amendment made by the authorities in the “Provisional Clinical Practice Guidelines on COVID-19 Suspected and Confirmed Patients” in the revised version issued on 31.03.2020, that all bodies of those who die as a result of being infected by Covid - 19 are to be cremated, even though WHO guidelines clearly states; people who died from COVID 19 can be buried and many countries too have currently provisioned the option of burial along with cremation.

Due to the prevailing compelling situation (Darurah), it shall not be regarded as sinful upon the Muslims, if a Janaza is forcefully cremated. We urge the Muslim community to exercise patience during this testing period and to pray for the Janaza to be rewarded and compensated in the best manner.

We iterate that these are extraordinary times which has engulfed the world and the citizens of our beautiful island. The Government of Sri Lanka is taking every possible measure to prevent the spread of the deadly pandemic and it is our bounden duty to support all of these efforts uniting as one, with our fellow brethren.

We wish to iterate that the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) has at all times supported the Government in this endeavor and advocated for immediate compliance of all regulations.

However, we wish to note that we will make all endeavors to make representations to the authorities, in line with the World Health Organization guideline titled “Infection Prevention and Control for the safe management of a dead body in the context of COVID-19” dated March 24, 2020.

The said guideline has provisions for the “Cremation and Burial” of those who die as a result of the infection.  It is known that many other Nations have exercised this provision, due to the sensitive nature of the matter and to respect the cultural values of the other ethnicities. Thereby we kindly request the relevant authorities to reconsider this stance and to facilitate our request that are in line with the WHO guidelines.

We call upon the Muslim community of Sri Lanka to ensure compliance to the regulations and iterate to the community to ensure that any symptoms of infection must be reported to the Health Authorities immediately.

The Holy Quran and the Hadith obligates the Muslims to act toward the Greater Good of the community they live in and enjoins all Muslims to ensure Public Welfare (Maslaha) in all their actions.

In these times of strife we call on all communities to support each other and to be sensitive to human sensibilities which we all our possessed of. 

These are extraordinary times and we continue to pray to the Almighty to shower his mercy, compassion and blessings on our motherland and to guide all of us in our fight against this pandemic.

27.03.2020

02.08.1441

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmathullahi Wa Barakaathuhu!

An important request from All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama regarding the final rites of a Muslim

The tribulations the world is facing presently is known to all. Hundreds of lives have been lost, while several others are hospitalized and are receiving treatment, due to the Coronavirus outbreak. Hence, many countries have imposed curfews and thousands of people are forced to stay indoors. Even in our country, day-to-day operations have come to a standstill.

The government is taking strict measures to protect the country and its people from this deadly virus. As patriotic citizens, Muslims have refrained from going to the Mosques for the daily congregational prayers and the Jumuah prayers, respecting the law of the country. Furthermore, Muslims have been cooperative in protecting the nation and its people.

Consequently, when a death occurs in the country, with the will of Allah, people are compelled to gather in order to fulfil the final rites of the deceased, which is Fardh Kifayah. Since the health officials have advised that such gatherings could result in this disease spreading further, the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama humbly exhorts all the Muslims to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. The nearest Police station should be informed of the death, immediately.
2. When the announcement of a Janazah is made, the public should be requested to supplicate for the deceased from home, as large gatherings have been restricted.
3. Only a restricted number of persons permitted by the Police should attend the Janazah Prayers.
4. The relatives of the deceased should ensure that the guidelines of the health officials are followed when gathering.
5. Those involved in the bathing and enshrouding (kafn) of the deceased, and those attending the Janazah should keep their face masks on at all times.
6. The Janazah Prayer should be conducted in the courtyard of the Masjid.
7. The correct manner of making a saff (line) is to stand close together. However, in certain circumstances, leaving a gap in between is permitted. Hence, one should maintain a distance when standing for Prayer.
8. During the burial process, only those required should stand close to the grave; the rest should maintain a distance.
9. Immediately after the burial, all those present should leave the premises, after having supplicated for the deceased. Musafahah (shaking of hands) should be avoided.

Note: These advises have been given on the basis of Quran, Hadith and the opinions of the religious scholars. Consider the following:

“Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship.” (Surah Baqarah: 185)

“Verily, the religion is easy and no one burdens himself in religion but that it overwhelms him.” (Saheeh Buhari: 39)

Ash-Shaikh M.L.M. Ilyas

Secretary – Fatwa Division

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

24.03.2020 (28.07.1441)

President / Secretary,

District and Divisional Branches,

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmathullahi Wa Barakathuhu!

May Almighty Allah protect all of us from all sorts of trials, Aameen!

Considering the prevailing situation in the country, a meeting was convened today (24.03.2020) at the ACJU Headquarters, with the representation of civil and social leaderships, in which it was decided to implement the following relief activity mechanism with immediate effect.

The ACJU District and Divisional Branches are requested to carry out relief activities based on the below guidelines:

1. To identify and nominate a main Masjid as a ‘relief center’ in your respective locality, with the cooperation of the local Masjid Federations or Masjid Trustees.

2. To appoint a 10 member committee for this cause with 5 members representing ACJU and 5 others representing the local Masjid Federations or Masjid Trustees. The number of persons can be decided as required.

3. To obtain necessary travel passes during the curfew, for two or three persons and for a vehicle (preferably Motorcycle or Three wheeler) for collection and distribution purposes.

4. To arrange a ‘Hotline’ for the ‘Relief Center’ Masjid.

5. To request the people of the locality to donate any excess essential items (listed below) they possess, to the ‘relief center’ Masjid, even if the quantity available is 250g.

6. Those who wish to donate or wish to make an appeal, should be requested to contact the ‘Hotline’ of the ‘relief center’ Masjid.

7. During distribution of goods to the needy, eligibility should be verified and the goods should be given in adequate proportions.

8. Only the vehicles and persons who have obtained the necessary travel permits from the local Police Station should be utilized to collect and to distribute the goods, and any other persons or vehicles should not be allowed.

9. To ensure that the relief activities are based on humanitarian grounds, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

10. To avoid excessive number of volunteers engaging in these relief activities. And to ensure appropriate health and safety guidelines are adhered, during the collection, packaging and distribution of goods.

11. The ACJU requests Ulama, Majid Trustees, well-wishers and prominent people in the society to collectively engage in this noble cause.

12. Required essential items: Rice, Sugar, Dhaal, Milk Powder, Tea, Wheat Powder, Salmon Tin

Ash Shaikh M.M.A. Mubarak

General Secretary

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

13.11.2019 / 15.03.1441

Let us act with more vigilant on the day of election

We are aware that the Presidential election would be held on the November 16, 2019. As citizens of Sri Lanka it is our right to caste our vote to our preferred candidate. We therefore urge all Citizens who has obtained their voting right to utilize it by casting their votes without wasting.

All voters are requested to caste their voting to their preferred candidate as early as possible within the stipulated timing without delaying. Further provide the fullest support for the officers who are appointed on Election Duty and carry documents to produce which will prove your identity like the National Identification Card.

It is a mandatory requirement to show your identity when entering to the polling booth, hence we kindly request the women folk who wear the face cover to cooperate with the officers by opening the face cover to confirm your identity when entering the polling booth. And also to be accompanied by a Mahram when going to the polling booth. Further it is preferred to travel in vehicles as much as possible and return home without delay. This would perhaps help us to avoid any unhappy occurrence.  

After  casting  the votes, be engage in  useful activities, rather than  loitering  in the roads and public places, similarly  also engage in prayers to ensure the successful candidate to be the one who is more committed to the nation,  largely engage in  for the betterment  of the citizen, able and efficient  to devote  his best to build this nation and its citizen.

We also kindly request the Ulama, Trustees of the Masjids and Divisional branches of the ACJU, to advise and provide corrective guidance on above to the general public.

Note: We also kindly request the Trustees of Masjid to read this statement after the Jumuah Prayers.

Al Sheikh A.C.Agar Mohamed

Deputy Chairman,

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

10.11.2019 / 12.03.1441

The All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) is pleased to release this special statement to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) which was a blessing to the entire mankind.

The Arabic month of Rabeeunil-Awwal is a very significant month for the entire mankind. This is the month of blessing in which Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) was born to enlighten the humanity to the right path.

The word ‘Rabeeun’ denotes the season of spring. The season of spring brings greenery, beauty and splendor to the earth. Similar to the season of spring, the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) brought prosperity, success, happiness, peace and contentment to humanity.

It was an era in which a severe drought prevailed in the spiritual and secular life of the entire humankind in the world. The earth was in a desperate need of an arrival of a new spring. And it was Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) who was the bearer of this new season of spring to humanity.

The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) carries the sense of value, true and real meaning of life on this world which would fill in the spiritual vacuum with peace and tranquility which is an essential requirement in the world, today. And these teachings are definitely potential enough to create a renewed world.

While commemorating the final Messenger of Allah on this special day, it is binding upon the Muslims to bear witness by following and adhering to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SalallahuAlaihiWaSallam) on the values of humanity, love, kindness, affection, coexistence and working towards the wellbeing of the people.

We sincerely wish and pray on this special day, that our motherland is blessed with peace, harmony and prosperity.

Mufti M.I.M. Rizwe   

President – ACJU      

Ash Shaikh M.M.A. Mubarak  

General Secretary – ACJU    

Ash Shaikh A.C. Agar Mohamed                                 

Deputy President – ACJU