55th Jalsa Salana to Promote God-Consciousness, Morals

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Tanzania will convene its 55th Jalsa Salana this weekend, with the annual gathering expected to promote God-consciousness among participants to foster good morals, justice and peaceful coexistence in families and communities.

The three-day gathering will be held from September 25 to 27, at the Ahmadiyya premises in Kitonga, Msongola Ward, Ilala Municipality in Dar es Salaam.

The event will be officiated by Prime Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, bringing together government leaders, political party leaders, religious leaders and community leaders.

Held under the theme “Taqwa (God-consciousness) is the Root of All Goodness” the convention is expected to attract approximately 5,000 participants from across Tanzania and abroad.

Speaking to reporter yesterday in Dar es salaam, the head of the Jamaat in Tanzania (Amir), Sheikh Khawaja Muzaffar Ahmad said this year’s gathering has selected various topics aimed at helping participants understand good morals.

“The objective is to encourage every participant to reflect on the extent to which they possess Taqwa after listening to the various talks and advice, and to make greater efforts to fulfil their responsibilities,” he said

He said when individuals begin fulfilling their responsibilities, the foundation of Taqwa is established, which in turn promotes good morals and eventually peace within families, among neighbours and across the country.

“Every form of goodness is Taqwa and every form of wrongdoing is outside Taqwa,” he said.

He linked the same principle to relations between nations, saying conflicts arise when stronger countries deny weaker nations their rights and seek to take advantage of them.

He said respect for the rights of other people and nations is necessary for peace, arguing that if everyone gave others their rights and respected their dignity, conflicts could be reduced.

Sheikh Ahmad said the message being promoted through the gathering is intended to encourage people to recognise the importance of justice and respect for others, including between neighbouring countries.

He also placed young people at the centre of the message, saying today’s youth represent the future of Tanzania and that strengthening their morals is important because they will become the country’s future leaders.

“We do not know who will be the leaders of tomorrow, but if we build morals, we will get good people,” he said.

The community’s Secretary General, Sheikh Akbar Kazema, said participants will listen to various talks and guidance covering the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a source of Taqwa.

He said participants will also have an opportunity to take part in joint night prayers, known as Tahajjud.

“This year, the prayers will specifically include supplications for Tanzania to maintain national unity and solidarity, as well as prayers for the country’s leaders to be granted good health and wisdom in leading the nation and its people,” he said