By Mahmud Isa Yola
The holy month of Ramadan is in full swing, and amidst the spiritual fervor, a video has gone viral on social media that has warmed the hearts of people across the globe. In the video, an Imam leading Taraweeh prayers in a crowded mosque in Algeria is interrupted by a surprise visitor – a cat! But what’s truly remarkable is the composure and tranquility the Imam exhibits as the feline jumps on him and even climbs onto his shoulder. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the importance of tranquility in prayer, something that we can all learn from.
Tranquility is key when it comes to prayer in Islam. It’s not just about going through the motions, but rather about connecting with Allah and achieving a sense of inner peace. The Qur’an reminds us to “seek help through patience and prayer” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 45), and there’s no doubt that the Imam in the viral video embodies this message.
As the cat hops onto the Imam, he remains focused on his recital with his eyes closed, petting the feline as it tries to kiss his face. It’s a beautiful example of the kind of love and compassion that Islam encourages us to have towards all creatures, great and small. And as the cat eventually hops off his shoulder and wanders away, the Imam continues with his prayer as if nothing has happened.
There are many hadiths and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that emphasize the importance of tranquility in prayer. In one hadith, he encourages us to make our prayers long so that those behind us can also achieve a sense of peace and calm. In another, he reminds us that Allah is always present during our prayers, so we should maintain cleanliness and composure at all times.
It’s important to remember that Islam isn’t just a religion of solemnity, but a way of life that emphasizes compassion, kindness, and mindfulness in all our actions. The viral video of the cat and the Imam is a beautiful reminder of these values, and it’s no wonder that it has captured the hearts of people around the world.
As we continue to observe the holy month of Ramadan, let’s strive to embody the principles of tranquility and composure in all aspects of our lives. Let’s be mindful of the world around us, and show love and compassion towards all creatures. And most importantly, let’s deepen our connection with Allah through prayer and reflection, and find the peace and serenity that comes with true faith.
In a world that can often be chaotic and overwhelming, it’s these moments of tranquility and peace that give us hope and strength. So let’s cherish them, and let them guide us towards a better, more compassionate future for all.
