RAMADAN: Scholars harp on interconnection between faith, morality, resilience in challenging times

By Bukola Hameed

Renowned Islamic scholar and Professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof. Afis Oladosu has emphasized the critical connection between faith, morality, and resilience in navigating today’s challenging environment. Drawing from historical Islamic teachings and contemporary societal issues, Prof. Oladosu made this analysis at the annual Ramadan Lecture of the Muslim Pharmacists of Nigeria (MPAN).

Prof. Oladosu’s address was thereafter bolstered by insights from Dr. Zafaran Adeniyi, CEO of Vanguards Academy in Ogun State, whose lecture titled “Rebuilding Faith, Morality, and Courage in a Challenging Environment” provided a roadmap for addressing modern-day moral and spiritual crises. Dr. Zafaran’s presentation highlighted the erosion of values due to materialism, social media, corruption, and poverty, and proposed strategies for rebuilding societal resilience through faith and moral reawakening.

Prof. Oladosu had earlier underscored the role of faith as a cornerstone of resilience. “Faith is not merely a belief system; it is a source of strength that enables individuals and communities to withstand adversity,” he stated. He referenced the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the resilience of the early Muslims as examples of how faith can inspire courage and perseverance in the face of trials.

Dr. Zafaran’s lecture echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that faith provides a “safety valve” against the pressures of modern life. He argued that spiritual practices such as supplication and regular engagement with spiritual literature can help individuals maintain their moral compass in an increasingly materialistic world.

Both Prof. Oladosu and Dr. Zafaran stressed the importance of morality in combating societal ills such as corruption and indecency. Prof. Oladosu noted that morality, rooted in faith, serves as a shield against the temptations of barbaric behaviours and the plots of Satan.

“When morality is eroded, society becomes vulnerable to corruption and moral decay,” he warned.

Dr. Zafaran’s presentation expanded on this idea, proposing practical strategies for moral reawakening. These include regular spiritual and moral programmes, community engagement initiatives, and the creation of cooperative alternatives to combat poverty and social isolation. He also stressed the importance of family meetings and welfare programmes as tools for rebuilding moral values at the grassroots levProf. Oladosu therefore called for a collective effort to rebuild resilience in the face of modern challenges. He urged Muslim communities to draw inspiration from the resilience of the early Muslims, who faced immense trials but remained steadfast in their faith and morality.

“In today’s world, where social media and materialism often lead to isolation and eroding values, we must return to the principles of faith and morality to build a resilient society,” he said.

Dr. Zafaran’s, then provided a practical complement to Prof. Oladosu’s call, outlining specific steps for fostering resilience. These include propagation of moral values, modulation of negative influences, and the creation of supportive community networks.

The combined insights of the erudite dons offered a powerful direction for addressing the moral and spiritual challenges of our time.

As Prof. Oladosu aptly put it, “The end of all trials lies in our ability to hold fast to our faith and moral principles, and to support one another in the journey toward a better society.”

A unique benefit of this annual programme was a comprehensive medical check up for participants.

Present at the occasion were elms men in the pharmaceutical practice and business in Oyo State including the Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Pharm. Musliudeen Adigun Emiola; the Amir of MPAN, Alhaja Abiola Peller (Mosh Pharmacy), Alhaji Taofeek Odukoya (Vanguard Pharmacy), Alhaji Muyiwa Adedeji (GSK), Alhaji Rahman Oyewole (Good all Pharmacy), Alhaji Mubaraq Olowokere (Mary Kay Pharmacy), Dr. Zaynul-Abideen AbdGaniyy and a host of others.