Ref: ACJU/NGS/2023/134

17^th May 2023

It has been reported that an individual named Jerome Fernando, had recently uttered controversial statements where he insulted Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism at a public gathering, which had virally circulated on Social media. It is most unfortunate to note that although he claims to be a follower of Jesus, his preaching seems to be provocative and as a threat to religious harmony.

We thank the authorities for commencing inquiries on his controversial statements and their efforts preserve interreligious harmony. We hope that those who attempt to disrupt interreligious harmony are dealt with appropriate measures.

With reference to the derogatory statements regarding Islam, we wish to state that the reference made is completely incorrect and he seems to have uttered these statements out of ignorance.

Love is a part of the essence of Almighty Allah as expressed in His Beautiful Name ‘al-Wadūd’, which is translated as ‘The Most Loving and can also be rendered as ‘The Affectionate.

The name al-Wadūd to other similar Beautiful Names denoting Allah’s Mercy, such as Ar-Rahman (The All-Merciful), Ar-Raheem (The Very-Merciful), Al-Ghaffar (The Ever-Forgiving), Al-Ghafoor (The All-Forgiving), Al-Latheef (The Subtle), Al-Haleem (The Forbearing), At-Thawwab (The Acceptor of Repentance), Al-A’fuww (The Pardoner), Ar-Rauf (Most Kind, the Ever-Compassionate).

The opening verse ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem’ (With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful), which is recited at the commencement of almost all the Chapters of the Holy Quran, proclaims the Love and the Mercy of Almighty Allah. And also it is significant to note that the term ‘Mercy’ is mentioned nearly 348 times in the Holy Quran.

The Holy Quran states: “Say, “Call (Him by the name of) Allah or Ar-Rahmān (The All-Merciful), in whichever way you call, His are the Best Names.” (Surah 17 Verse 110)

The love of Allah reaches all people and all creatures through His innumerable acts of Mercy towards His creations. It is truly impossible for us to comprehend the blessings bestowed by Almighty Allah in this world, especially with the priceless gift of life itself.

Almighty Allah states in the Holy Quran: “and He gave you whatever you asked for. If you (try to) count the bounties of Allah, you cannot count them all...” (Surah 14 Verse 34)

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Allah has one hundred parts of Mercy, of which He sent down one between the jinn, mankind, the animals and the insects, by means of which they are compassionate and merciful to one another, and by means of which wild animals are kind to their offspring. And Allah has kept back ninety-nine parts of mercy with which to be merciful to His slaves of the Day of Resurrection.” (Muslim, 6908)

As Muslims, we also believe that referring to Almighty Allah as ‘Father’, is to dishonor His grandeur status as Almighty Allah states the following in the Holy Quran, Chapter 112: “Say, ‘The Truth is that Allah is One. Allah is Besought of all, needing none. He neither begot anyone, nor was he begotten. And equal to Him has never been any one.”

And the Holy Quran also teaches us: “Do not revile those whom they invoke other than Allah” (Surah 06 Verse 108)

According to the Islamic teachings, we believe and honor all the Prophets, from Prophet Adam (PBUH) to the final Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), including Prophet Jesus (PBUH).

We pray Almighty to guide all of us to honor and respect the fundamental teachings of Prophet Noah (PBUH), Prophet Abraham (PBUH), Prophet Moses (PBUH), Prophet Jesus (PBUH) and the last and final Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon Him).

We pray that peace and harmony prevails in our country and around the globe.

Ash Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary

ACJU/NGS/2022/002

07^th January 2022

Response to Prof. Channa Jayasumana

ACJU rejects allegation as “absolutely false”

The All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) deeply regrets, by the letter issued by State Minister of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals, Professor Channa Jayasumana which he addressed to the Justice Minister complaining of a non-binding religious opinion issued 42 years ago by the then ACJU. As a responsible and learned individual, it would have been appropriate if Professor had, the courtesy of verifying this issue from All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama, which is a well-known organization of Muslim religious scholars in Sri Lanka, rather than addressing a third party.

Hon. State Minister Prof. Jayasumana’s allegation is that,  42 years ago the ACJU ‘issued an extra-judicial verdict to kill’, which is absolutely false, grossly mischievous and highly defamatory of the ACJU’s senior, prominent and respected scholars by all Muslims in Sri Lanka and worldwide who held office a very long time ago.

We are constrained to ask as to why Prof. Jayasumana is raising a long settled issue also reminding and connecting this with the unfortunate incident which took place in Sialkot Pakistan, where the people and the Government of Pakistan have done the best to family of the victim. Specifically at a time when we as Sri Lankans are struggling to overcome the financial crisis and while we are in need of support from all sectors to urgently raise required external funding from foreign countries, including Pakistan, to meet essential imports of basic necessities.

However for the sake of clarity, we wish to mention the following matters:

As an Islamic Religious body which gives guidance only on Islamic religious matters, it is beyond our authority to issue judicial verdicts on any matters.

The ACJU only issues non-binding religious opinions on Islamic religious matters.

We wish to emphasize that we, All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama and Sri Lankan Muslims, like all other citizens, are under one judiciary system in this country.

However it is the responsibility of the religious bodies to clarify and guide our communities regarding deviant and alien ideologies which is contrary to basic fundamentals of the respective religions. And if anyone uses the name of religion and misleads the community, it is the duty of the Religious bodies to raise awareness and educate the public by declaring that the particular ideology is incorrect and deviant by issuing a non-binding religious opinion.

We are deeply saddened that at a time of serious economic hardships affecting every sector in the country, Prof. Jayasumana’s script writer has attempted to harm our relationship with Pakistan by irrelevantly mentioning the Sialkot incident and also trying to divide communities on intra-religious issues instead of uniting the public for the progress and development of the country.

We cordially invite the Professor to visit us for a cordial discussion without allowing himself to be misguided by evil elements.

May the Truth and Justice prevail.

Ash Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary - ACJU

Ref: ACJU/NGS/2021/277

04^th of December 2021

Condemnation of the inhuman attack in Sialkot, Pakistan

We condemn the horrific inhuman attack on the factory in Sialkot & the burning of the Sri Lankan manager, and we also commend Pakistan's law enforcement authority for the swift action and arresting of over 100 suspects in this regard.

We urge that the perpetrators are dealt with severely, for this brutal murder. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased.

Our hope is that all global citizens, respect the rule of law and act humanely towards building sustainable brotherhood between communities and contribute towards our future generations.

Ash Shaikh Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary - ACJU

04^th June 2021

A special ‘Relief Aid’ project carried out by the ACJU District and Divisional Branches to support those who are affected by Covid-19

Let us acquire the Mercy of Allah by helping the poor and all those who are facing difficulties to fulfil their daily needs due to the impact of Coivd-19.

The current difficult situation prevailing in our country is well known. Some areas have been completely locked down and travel restrictions have been imposed around the country. In such circumstances, it is saddening to witness many people, especially those who are daily wagers, undergoing severe difficulties in fulfilling their daily essentials.

Therefore, considering the current situation the ACJU has launched a special ‘Relief Aid Project’ which will be carried out through the ACJU District and Divisional Branches, to provide possible assistance in fulfilling the needs of those affected. The introduction session of this project was conducted online via Zoom on the 03^rd of June.

There are 162 District and Divisional Branches of ACJU island-wide. Under each of these Branches, a Relief Coordinating Center is to be formed. Guidance has been provided to all ACJU Branches on assisting those of dire needs in the respective localities, especially those who are facing difficulties in acquiring their daily meals.

Those who are in severe difficulties could contact the hotline assigned by the local ACJU Branch, and inform their requirement for meals, upon which the respective Relief Coordinating Center shall make necessary efforts to fulfill the requirements. Furthermore, those who wish to extend their support for this noble cause, could also contact the assigned hotline of the respective Relief Coordinating Center and make arrangements for their contributions.

Moreover, the ACJU wishes to express its sincere appreciation to all the Masjid Federations and voluntary organizations around the country who are already engaged in these noble efforts and kindly requests them to continue their good work.

There are many Hadith quoting various virtues for those who engage in efforts to feed those in hunger. Let us strive to acquire these virtues by utilizing these crucial times of need.

ACJU Media Division

Ref: ACJU/NGS/2021/085

26.05.2021 CE | 13.10.1442 AH

Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

Astronomy reports have stated that a ‘Total Lunar Eclipse’ shall occur today (26^th of May 2021) Wednesday, and it will be a penumbral lunar eclipse for Sri Lanka.   Furthermore, it is stated that the penumbral lunar eclipse will end at 1920 hrs Colombo time, In Sha Allah.

When a penumbral Lunar Eclipse occurs a nebulous situation will be seen in the light of moon. A part of the moon or the full moon will be not covered. The eclipse prayer is Sunnah when the full or a part of the moon or sun get covered, in compared to Penumbral Lunar Eclipse, eclipse prayer is not a Sunnah.   

Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: The sun and the moon are two signs of Allah; they are not eclipsed on account of anyone’s death or on account of anyone's birth. So when you see them, glorify and supplicate Allah, observe prayer, give alms. (Saheehul Bukhari-1044)

Ash-Shaikh M.L.M. Ilyas
Secretary - Fatwa Division
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

Ash-Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

ACJU/NGS/2021/055

14^th April 2021

The Sinhala & Tamil New Year and the beginning of the month of Ramadhaan coincide together this year. It’s a good opportunity to us as Sri Lankans to learn each other’s culture and tradition, through which we can build understanding and coexistence among the communities.

Festivals are an expressive way to celebrate glorious heritage, culture and traditions. They are meant to rejoice special moments and emotions in our lives with our loved ones. They play an important role to add structure to our social lives, and connect us with our families and history of ethnic harmony.

The President, General Secretary, Executive committee Members, Members and the Staff of ACJU express our sincere appreciation and best wishes to those who are engaged in essential services and who are employed overseas and unable to be with their families during this festive seasons.

O Allah, let this festival seasons bring upon us guidance, happiness, good health and prosperity to all.

Ash Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith

General Secretary - ACJU

ACJU/MED/2021/001

02.01.2021 (17.05.1442)

It is well known that the ACJU is a highly reputed and recognized organization of the Muslim community. In this juncture the ACJU is approaching the completion of its centenary (1344 H – 1442 H) of service to the community.

Alhamdulillah, since its inception to date, the ACJU has been continuing on its ambitious journey unabated. We strongly believe that with the Mercy of Allah, this noble mission will continue efficiently and in a consistent manner. May Almighty Allah bless all of us to continue this mission!

The ACJU has been making utmost efforts towards the improvement of the Deen, the betterment of the nation, social unity, and reconciliation between ethnicities (https://cutt.ly/UjeCIrX) in the light of Quran, Sunnah, Ijma, Qiyas and the guidance of the predecessors.

The Executive Committee of the ACJU with the collaboration of the Central Committee, is a model entity which exhibits traits emphasized by Islam such as brotherhood, mercy, consultation, mutual understanding, concession, goodwill, generosity, tolerance and functions with utmost discipline. Unnecessary arguments are not facilitated and there aren’t any quarrels or disputes. Matters in which differences of opinions arises within the religious perspective, related opinions are expressed independently while observing discipline and ethics. And final consensus decisions taken mutually which has been the traditional culture followed by ACJU till this day. (https://cutt.ly/UjeCSYB)

The ACJU is determined in continuing its mission while maintaining the trust and loyalty of the Sri Lankan Muslim community and not to let down their expectations. Therefore we wish to state the fact to the community with utmost accountability that, the mutual goodwill, understanding and cooperation within ACJU and its Executive Committee has always been resilient till this day. Hence we bring to your attention that the ACJU, as always, with the assistance from Allah, is committed towards carrying forward the duties imposed upon itself, within the abilities bestowed. (There isn’t any other benefit except from Allah).

It is well known that the ACJU has never side stepped any of the challenges faced by the Community occasionally, but rather has been in the forefront striving to resolve them. In this regard it is significant to note that the ACJU has been working exclusively and collectively with other organizations on the issue faced by the Community on cremating the Janazas of Covid-19 victims since the inception to date, engaging in efforts to reverse the stance of the Health authorities to permit the option of burial of the deceased Covid-19 victims. (https://cutt.ly/njeVu8G)

Therefore, at a time when the community is facing various trials and tribulations, the ACJU humbly requests all Muslims to completely refrain from arousing vain suspicions, spreading rumors, engaging unnecessary arguments and to focus on engaging in good deeds that earn the Mercy of Allah, while upholding mutual understanding and unity.

Signatories:

Mufti M.I.M. Rizwe - President

Ash Shaikh M.S.M. Thassim – (Acting) General Secretary

Ash Shaikh A.C.M. Agar Mohamed - Deputy President

Ash Shaikh A.L.M. Khaleel - Treasurer

Ash Shaikh H. Omardeen - Vice President

Ash Shaikh A.L.M. Rila - Vice President

Ash Shaikh M.J. Abdul Khaliq - Vice President

Ash Shaikh A.L.M. Hashim - Vice President

Ash Shaikh S.H. Atham Bawa - Vice President

Ash Shaikh M.M.M. Murshid - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.L.M. llyas - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.F.M. Fazil - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh K.M. Muksith - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Arqam Nooramith - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Hassan Fareed - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh (Mufti) M.H.M. Yoosuf - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh A.C.M. Fazil - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh S.L. Nawfer - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.K. Abdur Rahman - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh S.A.M. Jawfar - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Abdullah Mahmood - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh A.R. AbdurRahman - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.H.M. Burhan - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Dr. Azwer - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Zaky Ahmed - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M. Nooman - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh Dr. M. L. M. Mubarak - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.S.M. Farood - Executive Committee Member

Ash Shaikh M.A.A.M. Bishir - Executive Committee Member

12.12.2020

Letter of All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama President Ash-Shaikh Mufti M.I.M. Rizwei to Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith for his Article which was published on 04.12.2020 in Ceylon Today Newspaper about Sharia & Cardinal`s Reply for It..

2020.11.05 (1442.03.17)

Health officials have announced that the second wave of Coronavirus spread is much severe than before and the country is in a vulnerable situation. We are aware that the government has taken various initiatives to further curb the spread of this disease. Every one of us must adhere to the related guidelines issued by the Government to the public and cooperate to ensure to prevent the further spread of this disease in Sri Lanka.

It is incumbent upon every Mu’min to believe that all matters in this world happens in accordance to the ‘Will of Allah’. Generally, Almighty Allah, has revealed the cure for all diseases. Abu Huraira (RA) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) has narrated that “Allah has not revealed any disease without having revealed its cure.”

Furthermore, the ACJU requests all Muslims to adhere to the following guidelines in order to protect everyone from being affected from this virus:

1. Those who are living in the areas where the curfew is imposed should adhere the related regulations. And to act responsibly, understanding that the curfew has been enforced for the benefit of all in order to prevent the spread of the corona virus. (Media statement released on 06.04.2020: https://acju.lk/en/downloads/download-posters/file/245-an-important-announcement-jointly-issued-by-sri-lanka-police-headquarters-and-acju?start=20)

The Prophet (PBUH) said, “If you hear about it (an outbreak of plague) in a land, do not go to it; but if plague breaks out in a country where you are staying, do not run away from it.” (Saheeh Bukhari: 5729, Saheeh Muslim: 2219)

2. Follow the guidelines issued by the Health officers completely. Especially guidelines such as wearing of face masks, regular washing of hands and maintenance of 1 meter distance, should be strictly adhered.

The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Do not put a patient with a healthy person” (Saheeh Bukhari: 5771, Saheeh Muslim: 2221)

3. Those who live in areas where the curfew is not in effect, should refrain from going out except for essential needs and should avoid gathering in public places.

The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Those who remain at home to protect themselves and the others, are in the path of Allah” (Musnad Ahmed)

4. Perform the five obligatory Prayers at home at the prescribed time in congregation. (Poster released on 10.05.2020: https://acju.lk/en/downloads/download-posters/file/263-performing-salaah-in-congregation-with-the-family?start=20)

5. Follow the complete guidelines issued by the Waqf Board on matters related to the Masjids.

5. In accordance with the previously issued guidelines, recite Qunooth-An-Naazila for a Month in the five obligatory Prayers, abstain from sinful acts, engage in Dua, Dhikr, Isthighfaar, observe Fasts and Sadaqa, and pray for the country and its people.

(Detailed explanation on the Qunooth-An-Naazila is included in the statement released on 26.10.2020: https://acju.lk/en/news/acju-news/item/2015-let-us-recite-qunooth-an-naazilah-briefly-during-the-regular-five-times-prayers-for-a-month-seeking-protection-from-coronavirus-covid-19)

Furthermore, recite the following Dua excessively:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْبَرَصِ وَالْجُنُونِ وَالْجُذَامِ وَمِنْ سَيِّئِ الأَسْقَامِ ‏

(Meaning: "O Allah, I seek refuge in Thee from leprosy, madness, elephantiasis, and evil diseases." Abu Dawud: 1554)

7. Aalims should remind the public frequently regarding the above matters by creating awareness and providing religious guidance.

May Almighty Allah protect the people of our Motherland and the entire world from these deadly diseases, Aameen.

Ash Shaikh M.S.M. Thassim

Asst. General Secretary

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama

Note: We kindly requests the ACJU Branches and Trustees of Masjids to make arrangements to read out these guidelines to the public through the mosques for three days consecutively.

ACJU/FRL/2020/19-236

2020.10.26

1442.03.08

The Coronavirus (COVID 19) has spread across many countries in the world causing great inconvenience to the people. Its impact is also seen in our country. Accordingly, we are aware that quarantine curfew is imposed across many parts of the country.

By decreeing trials upon His slaves, Almighty Allah expects and prefers them to turn towards Him. In order to seek relief from these trials, we must engage in good deeds such as Prayers, Fasting, Dua (Supplications), Dhikr, Isthighfar (Seeking Forgiveness) and Sadaqa and revert towards Allah.

There are many Saheeh Hadeeths which narrates that Prophet (PBUH) has recited Qunooth An-Naazilah during times of tribulation. Based on this, Religious scholars have acknowledged that reciting Qunooth An-Naazilah during times of an epidemic is a Sunnah.

Hence, to seek protection from Almighty Allah from the effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Sri Lanka, the ACJU urges the Masjids to arrange recital of Qunooth An-Naazilah during the five times Prayers for a period of one month, and those who pray at home are also encouraged to do the same. The Imams are requested to recite the following Duas (supplications) in addition to the regular Qunooth Dua recited during the Fajr prayer, in each prayer.

Ash Shaikh M.L.M. Ilyas

Secretary - Fatwa Division

All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama