Changes Brought by COVID-19 to Islam... Recommendation for 'Home Prayer'

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[Asia Economy Reporter Onyu Lim] The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is expected to spread the culture of 'home prayer' in the Islamic world observing Ramadan (Islamic fasting month). This is because Saudi Arabia and Iran, the leading countries of Sunni and Shia, the two major sects of Islam, have advised refraining from group prayers during Ramadan, which begins on the 23rd, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

On the 19th (local time), the Council of Senior Scholars, Saudi Arabia's highest religious authority, stated, "Muslims around the world should serve as a model in fulfilling their religious duties while adhering to the epidemic prevention measures of their respective health authorities," and added, "If the government of the place of residence enforces a curfew, we hope that prayers during Ramadan will be performed at home."

They further emphasized, "Muslims must continue religious rituals," but also stressed, "Religious rituals must not harm others."

Earlier on the 17th, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, head of the Council of Senior Scholars and the highest religious leader of Saudi Arabia, announced a religious interpretation stating, "During Ramadan, Taraweeh and Eid al-Fitr prayers should be performed at home to avoid the epidemic."

Taraweeh is an additional evening prayer performed after Isha during the month of Ramadan, usually held in mosques or masjids where the Quran (Islamic scripture) is recited, lasting about an hour. Eid al-Fitr is a holiday celebrating the end of Ramadan, during which large-scale prayers are held at mosques.

The Iranian government also issued guidelines advising against evening prayers and Iftar (the evening meal where family and relatives gather to break the daytime fast during Ramadan) at mosques during Ramadan.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said, "This year, even during Ramadan, people will not be able to gather for prayers or share Iftar," adding, "Mosques and shrines will remain closed until early May."

The Iranian government also plans to ban Zakat (charitable donations) where religious foundations or wealthy individuals provide free Iftar meals during Ramadan.

The Dubai Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) also announced on the same day, "Ramadan Taraweeh can be performed individually at home, not in mosques."

Within the Islamic world, there is also public opinion suggesting exceptions should be made for fasting during Ramadan this year, as fasting may weaken immunity and increase the risk of contracting COVID-19.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.