The air around Eid-el-Kabir is always thick with a special kind of energy – a blend of reverence, gratitude, and communal joy. But this year, as the echoes of the Takbir faded and families gathered, a particular voice resonated across Nigeria, cutting through the usual festive chatter. It was the voice of Sheikh Fhodilatul Ahmad Dhikrullah, a respected cleric whose Eid message wasn’t just a sermon; it was a profound call to action, a heartfelt plea to every Nigerian to embrace peace, compassion, and unity through the simple yet powerful act of doing good deeds.
This wasn’t just another speech. It was a moment where spiritual guidance met the urgent needs of a nation, reminding us that faith isn’t just about rituals; it’s about how we live, how we treat each other, and how we build our shared future.
I. A Festival Rooted in Obedience and Sacrifice: Beyond the Ritual
Eid-el-Kabir, or the Festival of Sacrifice, stands as one of Islam’s most profoundly sacred celebrations. At its very core, it commemorates the incredible willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to obey Allah’s (God’s) command, even if it meant sacrificing his beloved son. This act of ultimate devotion, where divine intervention ultimately replaced the son with a ram, teaches us timeless lessons about faith, submission, and unwavering trust in a higher power.
The festival itself is a vibrant tapestry woven with deep spiritual reflection and lively communal festivities. It’s a time marked by congregational prayers that draw millions together, symbolizing unity in worship. It’s also famously known for the ritual sacrifice of animals, the meat of which is traditionally shared with family, friends, and, crucially, the less fortunate. This act of sharing is central, reminding us of empathy and collective well-being.
However, this year, Sheikh Dhikrullah’s message transcended these cherished rituals. While honoring the traditions, his sermon peeled back the layers to reveal a deeper, more urgent meaning. It was a powerful reminder that the spirit of Eid extends far beyond the feast days; it’s a blueprint for daily living, a solemn call to action for Nigeria itself, urging us to embody the very principles of sacrifice and compassion in our everyday lives. His words weren’t just for Muslims; they were a profound invitation to all Nigerians to look inward and consider our collective responsibility.
II. Peace as a Divine Imperative: More Than Just an Absence of Conflict
In a nation as wonderfully diverse yet often challenging as Nigeria, peace isn’t merely a blessing; it’s an absolute necessity. We live in a society rich with multiple ethnicities, languages, and faiths, and navigating this beautiful complexity requires constant effort and understanding. Sheikh Dhikrullah’s voice, amplified by the spiritual atmosphere of Eid, resonated with undeniable clarity: “Our faith in Allah is incomplete without peace—and peace doesn’t happen by chance.” This powerful statement underscores that peace isn’t a passive state, but an active, conscious pursuit, a fundamental spiritual duty.
He passionately urged his fellow Muslims – and by extension, all Nigerians – to become active architects of harmony. His message wasn’t just about avoiding conflict; it was about proactively building bridges:
- Within homes and communities: He spoke of the sacred duty to foster an atmosphere of peace where we live. This means being mindful of our words, avoiding gossip or inflammatory language that can spark discord, and choosing patience and understanding even in disagreements. It implies a commitment to resolving conflicts amicably, prioritizing mutual respect over personal pride. Imagine homes where kindness reigns, and communities where neighbors truly look out for one another—that’s the foundation of national peace.
- Between faiths and ethnicities: This is perhaps one of the most crucial aspects for Nigeria. The Sheikh emphasized transcending our differences, promoting genuine understanding, and celebrating our shared humanity. This calls for deliberate efforts at interfaith dialogue, seeking common ground, and actively debunking stereotypes. It means recognizing that our diverse spiritual paths often lead to similar ethical values: compassion, justice, and community.
- In every interaction: Peace, he reminded us, is built brick by brick, one interaction at a time. It involves modeling patience in traffic, extending respect to strangers, offering a kind word even when faced with frustration, and embodying kindness in every gesture. These might seem like small gestures, but they are the bedrock of a peaceful society, reflecting a deeply rooted faith that prioritizes human dignity.
It was a profound reminder that peace is not optional or a luxury; it’s a spiritual duty that permeates every facet of our lives, from our personal conduct to our collective national aspirations.
III. Good Deeds: A Faith with Action – Lifting Hearts, Lifting Society
Eid-el-Kabir is not just about the solemn act of sacrifice; it is profoundly about service and generosity. The spiritual significance of giving, rooted in the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s ultimate submission, extends directly to our compassion for fellow human beings. The Sheikh powerfully articulated this by emphasizing that our faith is incomplete without action, without tangible expressions of kindness and charity.
He encouraged several forms of good deeds, each designed to enliven hearts and lift society:
- Zakat and Sadaqah (Charity): Giving generously to the poor and needy lies at the very heart of Eid’s spirit. Zakat, a mandatory annual charity for those who meet certain wealth thresholds, purifies one’s wealth and serves as a vital social safety net. Sadaqah, voluntary charity, knows no bounds and encompasses every act of kindness. This goes beyond just financial donations; it includes contributing to educational funds for underprivileged children, supporting medical treatment for the sick, or providing vocational training for those seeking a livelihood. These acts of giving strengthen communal bonds and ensure that no one is left behind.
- Sharing Sacrificial Meat: This is a distinctive and beautiful tradition of Eid-el-Kabir. The meat from the sacrifice is not just for one’s immediate family. It is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors (regardless of their faith), and critically, one for the poor and needy. This practice ensures that families across all economic lines can partake in the joy and blessings of the celebration together. It’s a powerful, tangible act of solidarity and communal dining, fostering connection and reducing hunger.
- Everyday Acts of Kindness: Beyond the structured forms of charity, Sheikh Dhikrullah emphasized the profound impact of simple, everyday gestures. These are the small, often unnoticed, actions that reflect a large-hearted faith:
- Visiting the sick: Offering comfort and prayers to those in need, regardless of their background.
- Helping neighbors: Lending a hand to someone struggling, whether with groceries, a chore, or a listening ear.
- Cleaning communities: Taking responsibility for shared public spaces, contributing to a healthier environment for everyone.
- Offering smiles: A simple smile, a genuine greeting, can brighten someone’s day and build bridges where none existed.
- Mentoring youth: Sharing knowledge and guidance with the next generation.
- Volunteering time: Giving of oneself for a cause greater than individual gain.
It’s a vision of faith that isn’t confined to mosques or prayer mats but dynamically expresses itself through actions that bring tangible benefits to others, truly transforming society from the inside out.
IV. Unity: Above Tribe and Politics – A Platform for National Renewal
“Our strength is in our unity,” the Sheikh asserted with unwavering conviction, directly addressing some of Nigeria’s most persistent and painful challenges – political tension, communal conflict, and the rising tide of inequality that threatens to tear at the nation’s fabric. He clearly articulated that the constant friction between different groups, fueled by divisive rhetoric, only serves to weaken the very foundation of the nation.
He implored Nigerians to make a conscious, courageous choice to transcend the narrow confines of identity and embrace a broader vision of shared citizenship:
- Look beyond religious and ethnic labels: This means actively choosing to see the Nigerian first, before identifying someone by their tribe, religion, or region. It involves recognizing common aspirations for a better life, for peace, for prosperity, and for justice, regardless of our diverse backgrounds. It’s about prioritizing our collective future over historical grievances or narrow group interests.
- Reject hate speech and divisive rhetoric: The Sheikh was unequivocal about the destructive power of words. He urged Nigerians to actively reject language that dehumanizes, demonizes, or incites violence against any group. Instead, he called for choosing compassion over hostility, fostering environments where constructive dialogue can thrive, and where disagreements are handled with respect, not animosity.
- Work toward national healing: This is a profound and long-term commitment. It means acknowledging the deep wounds caused by past conflicts and injustices, and actively seeking reconciliation. It’s about building trust where distrust has festered. Crucially, he framed treating neighborliness as an act of worship – meaning that extending kindness, support, and understanding to those around us, regardless of their background, is not just a social nicety but a spiritual imperative that contributes to national cohesion.
In that powerful moment, Eid became far more than a mere ritualistic observance; it transformed into a dynamic platform for national renewal, a rallying cry for a truly united and harmonious Nigeria.
V. Religious Leadership as a Voice of Compassion: A Guiding Light
Religious leaders in a deeply spiritual nation like Nigeria bear an immense responsibility. Their words carry enormous weight, possessing the unique power to inspire – whether towards profound peace and understanding or, tragically, towards polarization and division. It is a dual-edged sword, and Sheikh Dhikrullah has consistently chosen the path of compassionate wisdom.
Sheikh Dhikrullah’s legacy extends far beyond his Eid sermon; it is deeply rooted in his consistent actions and ongoing commitment to societal well-being:
- Ongoing Interfaith Outreach: He is known for actively engaging with leaders of other faiths, fostering dialogues that build bridges of understanding and respect. He has championed initiatives that bring Christians, Muslims, and adherents of traditional beliefs together, showcasing a model of peaceful coexistence and mutual appreciation for diverse spiritual paths. These efforts create platforms for shared values to be highlighted and for common societal challenges to be addressed collaboratively.
- Support for Community Development: His influence isn’t limited to spiritual guidance. He has been a consistent advocate and active participant in various community development projects. This includes supporting educational initiatives to uplift the underprivileged, contributing to healthcare programs, advocating for poverty alleviation, and championing skills acquisition programs that empower youth and women. His leadership demonstrates that faith leaders can be powerful catalysts for tangible social progress.
- Active Conflict-Resolution Efforts: In a nation prone to communal strife, Sheikh Dhikrullah has often stepped in as a trusted mediator and a voice of reason. He has actively engaged in conflict de-escalation, using his moral authority and spiritual wisdom to calm tensions, foster dialogue between aggrieved parties, and guide communities towards peaceful resolutions. He has consistently prioritized human lives and societal harmony over narrow group interests.
On this Eid, he stood tall not just as a revered cleric delivering a sermon but as a courageous guide for moral clarity and compassionate action, embodying the very principles he preached. His leadership serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact religious figures can have when they prioritize peace and unity.
VI. Why This Message Matters Now: A Timely and Timeless Challenge
Nigeria, at this very moment, confronts a myriad of profound struggles. Our nation grapples with persistent economic hardship, marked by rising inflation and unemployment that strain the fabric of daily life. Insecurity, ranging from banditry to communal clashes, continues to cast a long shadow, while political strain often divides rather than unites. Amidst this complex and often disheartening landscape, Sheikh Dhikrullah’s message is not just timely; it is timeless and critically relevant.
His sermon serves as a dual-pronged call to introspection and collective action:
- Internally (Personal Accountability): He challenged each individual to look inwards, to honestly check their own hearts and motives. “Am I contributing to peace or discord?” This question forces a profound personal reckoning. Are our daily interactions, our social media comments, our conversations contributing to harmony or fanning the flames of division? It’s a call for self-awareness and personal responsibility in upholding the values of peace and kindness. This internal audit is the first crucial step towards broader societal change.
- Collectively (Shared Vision): Beyond individual reflection, the Sheikh articulated a powerful vision for Nigeria’s future. He envisioned communities that don’t just tolerate but actively uphold equality, charity, and unity as fundamental pillars of national identity. This isn’t just about religious ideals; it’s about building a nation where justice is paramount, where compassion is a collective habit, and where every citizen feels a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Imagine a Nigeria where trust replaces suspicion, where cooperation overrides competition, and where every person’s dignity is respected.
His message was not merely a speech to be heard and then forgotten; it was a profound challenge, an invitation to redefine the very meaning of Eid in our everyday lives. It was a clear directive to translate the spiritual principles of sacrifice and submission into tangible acts of peace, kindness, and unity that permeate our society long after the festive season concludes.
VII. Reflection for Eid and Beyond: A Turning Point for Nigeria
As the communal prayers of Eid-el-Kabir concluded, as the festive gatherings wound down, and as the last morsels from the feast plates disappeared, Sheikh Dhikrullah’s profound words continued to resonate. They echoed not just in the halls of worship but in the hearts and minds of those who truly listened, leaving an indelible imprint. His message distilled the essence of Eid into three enduring pillars:
- Peace must flourish: Not merely as an abstract concept, but as a living reality—nurtured actively in our hearts, diligently fostered within our homes, and consciously cultivated throughout society. It is the oxygen that allows communities to breathe and thrive.
- Good deeds are faith in action: Our beliefs are best expressed not through lofty pronouncements, but through tangible acts of kindness, generosity, and service to humanity. Every small act of giving, every helping hand, every genuine smile contributes to a tapestry of compassion that uplifts all.
- Unity is not innate: It is not a given that we will remain united. Rather, unity must be actively chosen, fiercely protected from divisive forces, and diligently nurtured through understanding, empathy, and shared purpose. It is the strength that binds us, allowing us to overcome any challenge.
Let this Eid-el-Kabir indeed be a profound turning point for Nigeria. Let it be a moment where individual faith transcended personal piety and blossomed into collective compassion, sparking a ripple effect across the nation. May this celebration be more than just a fleeting festivity; may it be a deep commitment to the values Sheikh Dhikrullah so passionately articulated. May ritual transform into genuine renewal, inspiring each of us to embody these powerful ideals.
In the true spirit of Eid, may all of us embrace these timeless values. May our homes be sanctuaries of peace, our actions reflections of profound kindness, and our communities models of unwavering unity. Eid Mubarak—and may the transformative legacy of this message echo long past today, shaping a more peaceful, compassionate, and united Nigeria for generations to come.
