The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta organised a Traditional Ramadan Iftar Reception on Monday 19th June at the Kennedy Nova Hotel, Gzira, which was attended by many respectable guests.

Imam Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta explained the concept of fasting in Islam and quoted verses from the Holy Quran and Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him.

He explained that the true purpose of Ramadan, as of all forms of Islamic worship is to draw people closer to God.

Ramadan is a clear manifestation of two basic tenants and fundamental principles and basics of Islamic teachings, they are – the Rights of God, and the Rights of fellow human beings.

It is a physical, moral and spiritual discipline, and the object is the promotion of righteousness and security against evil.

The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: ‘He who abstains from food and drink during the period of the fast but does not restrain himself from uttering a falsehood, starves himself to no purpose.’

The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community says:

“These forms of worship are essential for the purification of the spirit… To be moderate in eating and drinking and to bear hunger and thirst are necessary for the purification of the spirit and promote the capacity for visions. Man does not live by bread alone. To discard all thought of eternal life is to invite Divine wrath.

It should be remembered that the fast does not mean merely that a person should abstain from food and drink over a certain period. During the fast one should be occupied greatly with the remembrance of God. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) occupied himself greatly with worship during the month of Ramadan. During that month one should discard one’s preoccupation with eating and drinking; and cutting asunder from these needs should address oneself wholly towards God.

Unfortunate is the person who is bestowed material bread and pays no attention to spiritual bread. Material bread strengthens the body, and spiritual bread sustains the soul and sharpens the spiritual faculties. Seek the grace of God, as all doors are opened by His grace.”