Sheikh Munirdeen Salahudeen has unveiled ways of identifying devout Muslims, especially in this secular world.
The Islamic scholar, who is also a lecturer at Lagos State University of Education, delivered a lecture on “Muslim identity: Living in a secular world” at the 25th Ramadan lecture hosted by the Chairman of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon Rasaq Ajala.
The lecture was organized by the Mushin branch of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) on Sunday April 16, 2023 at the residence of Hon Ajala.
Sheikh Salahudeen began his lecture by appreciating Almighty Allah for keeping everyone alive to date.
“Many people started this Ramadan with us, but today they are no more. We are not specifical; we are only enjoying Allah’s grace,” he said.
He specially recognized the clerics present at the event. He commended their spiritual efforts. He also commended the Chief host, Hon Ajala Rasaq.
“We must commend Hon Rasaq Ajala. He has proven to us that he is a devout Muslim. Many politicians have failed to take care of their spiritual lives. Rasaq Ajala has been hosting lectures since the beginning of Ramadan. So he deserves commendation,” Sheikh Salahudeen said.
Speaking about the topic, he explained that Muslims must learn how to relate with people of other faiths and beliefs amicably in a secular world.
“In every society, we live to accommodate everyone. We live with people with different character and behavioural patterns. We live with people from different backgrounds, and with different cultural orientations,” Imam Salahudeen said.
While explaining ways of identifying a devout Muslim, he warned that the concept of socialization must not affect the identity of Muslims.
“The first identity of a Muslim in this multicultural and secular world is faith. We must not shy away from Islamic principles,” he said.
He implored the gathering to stand with their faith, irrespective of the circumstances they find themselves.
“A Muslim must retain their faith. They must realise that only Allah gives and rewards. Only Allah approves and disapproves,” he implored the congregation.
He added, “We must be conscious of the vanity and ephemerality of life. We must remember the day of judgment.”
According to the lecturer, another identity of a Muslim is the ability to recite the holy Qu’ran. He stressed that the holy Qu’ran is enough to solve our problems without associating anything with Allah.
The third identity of a devout Muslim, according to Salahudeen, is generosity. He maintained that a good Muslim must always reach out to others.
“Charity is not limited to the month of Ramadan. As a good Muslim, your neighbours must not suffer. We should extend generosity to others,” he said
After the lecture, the congregation was served Iftar to break their fast.
