Fast to Understand Muslims: London Mayor

September 05, 2009 - 00:11

CAIRO — London Mayor Boris Johnson has urged non-Muslims to fast a day during the holy month of Ramadan to help get a better understanding of their Muslim neighbors, the Daily Mail reported Friday, September 4. "I urge people, particularly during Ramadan, to find out more about Islam," Johnson said during a visit to East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre. "Increase your understanding and learning, even fast for a day with your Muslim neighbor and break your fast at the local mosque." In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset. Most dedicate their time during the holy month to become closer to Allah through self-restraint, good deeds and prayer. It is customary for Muslims to spend part of the days during Ramadan studying the Noble Qur'an. Many men perform i`tikaf (spiritual retreat), spending the last 10 days of the month exclusively in the mosque. Johnson said that having a better understanding of Muslims would help disassociate from negative ideas and end differences inside the society. "I would be very surprised if you didn't find that you share more in common than you thought," he said. The London Mayor praised the role of Muslims in challenging "traditional stereotypes." "Whether it's in theatre, comedy, sports, music or politics, Muslims are challenging the traditional stereotypes," he said. "[They are] showing that they are, and want to be, a part of the mainstream community." A recent government-commissioned study has also found that a torrent of negative and imbalance stories in the British media demonize Muslims and their faith by portraying them as the enemy within. British Muslims, estimated at nearly two million, have also taken full brunt of anti-terror laws since the 7/7 attacks. They have repeatedly complained of maltreatment by police for no apparent reason other than being Muslim. Muslim Integration The London Mayor gave tribute to the role played by British Muslims in building their society. "Muslims are at the heart of every aspect of society," said Johnson. "Their contribution is something that all Londoners benefit from." Varying from officers, doctors and scientists, Johnson hailed Londoner Muslims for promoting the society. "Muslim police officers, doctors, scientists and teachers are an essential part of the fabric of London,” he said. "Islamic finance is contributing to the economy by changing the way Londoners invest, save, borrow and spend.” Johnson, who succeeded Ken Livingstone, one of Britain’s most colorful and popular politicians, who has been known for his strong defense of the British Muslims, also praised the Muslims’ social role. "There are valuable lessons that people of all backgrounds can learn from Islam," he said. He said that all good Muslim practices are perfectly reflected in the Ramadan's teachings. "Such as the importance of community spirit, family ties, compassion and helping those less fortunate,” he said. "All of which lie at the heart of the teachings of Ramadan." http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?c=Article_C&cid=1251021447796&pagename=Zone-English-News/NWELayout