As can be seen previously in the statement from the Irish Council of Imam's, we have our guidelines from the Prophetic sunnah and Qur'an on what to do where the health and wellbeing of communities are at risk:
The Islamic health instructions highlight a number of medical preventive procedures e.g. instructions preventing contagious diseases including isolation, no travel to and from a land where an epidemic is spread, seeking cure, and vaccinations. These are stressed in a number of Quranic verses and prophetic traditions.
The ICI exhorts Imams to save no efforts to prevent the spread of this epidemic, contribute to raising awareness and avoid spreading rumours. Congregational prayers and Friday’s prayers may not be established and schools and universities may be closed, if needed. The Muslim jurists have consensually stated that the obligation of Friday’s prayers and attending congregational prayers is removed by illness and fear for one’s life or the life of a family member. Allah says “Observe your duty towards Allah as much as you can.” (Trans. 64:16) Allah says “Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties.” (Trans. 02:185) Allah says “and has imposed no difficulties on you in religion.” (Trans. 78)
Now in light of this progression of the coronavirus and the Taoiseach’s recent statement regarding nationwide school and college closures and gatherings of 100 people indoors to be cancelled etc, Jummah prayer has been cancelled until further notice.
Those who attend the mosque for regular prayers MUST make their wudu (ritual ablution) at home, bring their own prayer mat and Qur’an to use.
Greetings should be done at a distance, with no handshaking, hugs or physical contact.
Social distancing must be maintained outside of prayer.
When the prayer is over, people should make their way home, no congregating in the mosque.
Those who fall into the at risk category or who are sick, please do your prayers at home.
May Allah keep everyone healthy and safe.
We pray that with these measures, Ireland can get on top of this and stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Everyone should respect the measures being put in place and abide by them.
All up to date information can be obtained from the Department of health and also the website of the HSE.
