What to do if you can’t afford ram for Sallah – Cleric

What to do if you can’t afford ram for Sallah – Cleric

Nigeria is currently undergoing economic challenges. This is due to the fall in the value of the Naira and other factors. Purchasing rams for the Muslim Eid-el-Kabir celebration is difficult this year.

This is especially true for those who belong in the low income class.

When we spoke to an Islamic cleric about what those who cannot afford rams ought to do to be a part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Ibrahim Garba Muhamad is a cleric at the Kugbo area mosque in Kugbo, Abuja.

According to him, everyone is aware of the current economic challenges facing the country.

“I have no idea how other people view the economic situation but personally, I don’t see how the economy stops one from purchasing a ram.

“I bought my own ram at between N25, 000 and N30, 000. As you can see, it is not really as expensive as many people think it is,” he said.

When asked if all Muslims are required to slaughter a ram for Eid-el-Kabir, Muhammad said it was not compulsory that all Muslims must do so.

“The exception is if you have the financial capability of obtaining a ram for the celebration. It is not compulsory but if you have the means, you should get a ram,” he said.

“The ram sacrifice signifies the end of Zul-hijjah, the Muslims pilgrimage to Mecca. This they do from the first to the ninth day of Zul-hijjah. Those that re not privileged to go for Hajj will offer sacrifices as their own token,” he said.

Muhammad advised those who cannot afford to buy rams during this Sallah to focus on the spiritual significance of the celebration.

“The most important thing is the praises we offer on Eid. For instance, on the eve of the Eid-el-kabir, we offer fast from sun-up to sunset to mark the day of Arafat. I think that is the most important aspect of the celebration.

“The spiritual aspect of Eid-el-Kabir ought to be very important to all Muslims.

“Killing rams is equally important as Muslims are supposed to use the ram meat to show and spread love to the less-privileged in their environment. So, they can feel included in the celebration.

“The killing of the ram is not for those who purchased the ram. It is for every other person, that is why sharing of the meat is very common, especially to those who do not have,” he said.