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Prayers for Muhamad Ali
6-13-2016
A call was made for prayers to be held at all Masjids throughout the Lower Mainland joining those held throughout the world by all faiths to remember the life, and legacy of Muhammad Ali.
Muhammad Ali was more than a fighter in the ring. He fought battles for racial equality, justice, and inclusion. Decisively anti-war and anti-bigotry, he fought to his dying days the threat of Islamaphobia and condemned the cowardly and evil acts of terrorists who seek to pervert the meaning of true Islam.
Muhammad Ali, for those of us who grew up watching his fights, praying for him in and out of the ring was a larger than life figure - At times boastful,wistful, cheerful and gregarious. His kindness and generosity of spirit will be remembered and celebrated.
After attaining the Heavyweight Championship of the world, Cassius Clay took the name of Muhammad Ali, entered Islam as interpreted by the Nation of Islam, and later embraced Sunni Islam and studied Sufi spirituality. He was a pious and humble Muslim, a great human being who transcended divisions of faith and race in his words and deeds.
He was and will in all likelihood remain one of the most recognized persons on the planet. As we have seen by the outpouring of grief world wide, his loss is felt deeply.
A man of courage, He, at great personal loss, refused induction into the US Army refusing to serve in an unjust war or to kill those who had done nothing to him. He was stripped of his title, fined and lived under the threat of jail for standing up for his beliefs.
After an arduous court battle, he re-entered the boxing ranks and carried on electrifying the world. He was crowned heavyweight Champion 3 times in his career, a record that still stands.
He gave but also took a great deal of punishment in the ring and developed the Parkinson’s disease that debilitated his body and eventually silenced his voice.
And still, after all this he remained in the public eye, doing works of charity, raising awareness of the disease and speaking out by statements and personal appearances for peace, tolerance and understanding.
A beautiful man and an example for all of us. We too are in mourning for a man who lived life to its fullest and gave so much to so many. May the Creator of us all be pleased with him.
Pakistan Canada Association - Al Jamia Masjid Vancouver traditionally holds the Ramadan Spirit Campaign benefitting the Homeless and Hungry in Vancouver. This year, we dedicate our Food Drive to the memory and spirit of Muhammad Ali and may his courage and legacy continue to inspire us and generations to come.
We will be announcing the date for the Ramadan Spirit Food Drive shortly and the Food Drive will be followed by an Iftari dinner and Inter-faith service to be held at the Al Jamia Masjid. Details announced shortly.
Sincerely,
Haroon Khan
President, Pakistan Canada Association
Trustee, Al Jamia Masjid Vancouver
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