Islamic guidance is necessary to become honest, good people: Gayoom

Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said that we can only become honest and good people by following the guidance and trainings provided by Islam, and by keeping our actions a particular way.

Gayoom made this statement while speaking at the first function of the ‘ihya’ program organized by the Gayoom Foundation.

He said that the trainings of Islam include fasting, praying five times a day, completing the hajj pilgrimage, and almsgiving; and that we have to get ourselves used to these trainings according to the rules determined by God, in order to benefit from them.

Gayoom said that religion is the most important means to building character.

“By praying, fasting, almsgiving, and completing the pilgrimage, we gain spiritual benefits. It deepens our faith in God, and reminds us that He is all-knowing, and gives us the determination to refrain from practices which are frowned upon by Him. We must accept that human beings are but weak in front of God,” Gayoom said.

In addition to Gayoom, a speech was given by former Chief Justice and Head of Islamic Council Mohamed Rasheed Ibrahim. His speech was based on refraining from harassing and mocking one another.

He noted that while this has become common practice in the Maldivian society, it is prohibited in Islam.

This is the third year that the Gayoom foundation organizes ‘ihya’ programs during Ramadan, which this year is held every Tuesday night.