The Republic of Albania played host to His Excellency, the Secretary General of the Muslim World League and President of the Muslim Scholars Association, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa. He delivered the Eid al-Fitr sermon at the Grand Mosque of Tirana, the largest mosque in the republic and the Balkan region, in the presence of Albanian scholars.
Sheikh Al-Issa began the sermon by congratulating the Islamic nation on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, emphasizing that it is a day of joy thanks to Allah. He stressed the importance of observing Islamic etiquette, fostering faith-based brotherhood, and strengthening the bonds of unity. He highlighted the significance of tolerance in enhancing fraternal ties and goodwill, noting that these Islamic values encompass everyone regardless of their faith.
The sermon delved into the key features of the Quran’s guidance as the most righteous and guiding path for all aspects of a person’s life, including their beliefs, worship, conduct, and behavior. Sheikh Al-Issa affirmed that Allah sent Prophet Muhammad with sound nature and high values, and through the meanings of nature and the contents of these values, his message reached humanity. This message facilitated the conversion of people to Islam in multitudes, with Muslims today numbering over two billion. From the dawn of faith with its brightness until now, no one has been able to refute its truth or weaken the belief of its followers, despite attempts of ignorance and malice only strengthening their faith.
In this context, Sheikh Al-Issa emphasized the importance of safeguarding Islam’s reputation, stating that while every Muslim cherishes their religion, true pride in it is validated through actions. He urged every Muslim to be conscientious about upholding the reputation of their faith, but genuine and beneficial conscientiousness lies in each of us being ambassadors of goodness for Islam to the world. This involves adhering to the steadfast principles and lofty values of Islam, which remain unchanged by circumstances, desires, provocations, or incitements.
Sheikh Al-Issa also underscored the significance of family, which is the hope of every nation as the nucleus of its society and the bulwark of its security. He drew attention to the active role of women in building strong families.
Overall, Sheikh Al-Issa’s sermon at the Grand Mosque of Tirana during the celebration of Eid al-Fitr conveyed messages of joy, unity, tolerance, and the timeless guidance of the Quran for all aspects of life. He urged Muslims to uphold the values of Islam with sincerity, serving as exemplary ambassadors of their faith while recognizing the pivotal role of families and the crucial contribution of women in nurturing strong societies.
