The news about Pakistan’ earthquake is really appalling.
Thousands of people were killed. In one school 400 girls
are found dead under the ruins. May Allah have mercy on
them and relieve the poor people there.
For long time I yearned to make `Umrah. I have already made
`Umrah before but who do not yearn to visit these sacred
sites and pray near to Ka`bah. It is not an easy task as
you know, one needs to spend much of time and work to earn
enough money to make this highly spiritual journey. But do
not forget, the performance of `Umrah in Ramadan is equal
to making Hajj as told by the Prophet (peace and blessings
be upon him).
However, my heart can not stand the appalling pictures
broadcast today of the quake’s victims. How could one enjoy
the spirituality of a second `Umrah when he knows that his
brothers and sisters are in dire need to this money.
Now two courses of action are available; either to go ahead
with the `Umrah, or to send the money to relief efforts in
these countries.
For my part, I opt for the second option and this is my
final say. After all, one should not be selfish even if he
intends to do `Umrah. Who knows, maybe this money spent on
those poor people will be more rewardable than making
`Umrah. Me and me alone will benefit from this `Umrah; on
the other hand, this money can provide hundreds of people a
piece of bread, a shelter, or even a drop of water.
Suppose you are in my position, what would your decision
be; to make `Umrah or to send your money to relive your
brothers and sisters in these ravaged countries.
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