For many years, me and several others have called for moderation in the use of powerful loudspeakers in mosques, advocating for using less powerful ones. The goal is not to punish or disturb people, especially during the early morning hours. People have different lifestyles and habits, they are not programmed like robots. It is wrong to assume that the timing of the call to prayer is suitable for everyone. In fact, the opposite is more accurate. Loud noise from vehicle engines pollutes the environment. Therefore, the Ministry of Interior criminalized their use due to their harmful effects. High volume loudspeakers are no different, as they cause the same damage. It is generally impermissible to use loudspeakers, especially during Ramadan, for reciting the Quran.
This is incorrect. The Quran is not recited for someone sitting in their shop, walking on the street, managing their pharmacy, or driving a taxi. The recitation of the Quran is intended for worshippers inside the mosque. Some citizens, particularly the elderly, complain about the loud volume of loudspeakers, as it prevents them from sleeping. The same applies to children, students and the sick. Those who wish to hear the Quran should listen to it recited by the most beautiful voices, such as the imams of the Two Holy Mosques, via television or mobile phone. The spirituality that religious rituals aim to achieve does not necessarily mean disturbing others and shouting through loudspeakers.
Spirituality can be attained by going to the mosque and performing prayers there, not by loitering the streets and then complaining about not hearing the recitations or prayers through loudspeakers. The above statement, this time, is not written by the columnist of this article or a friend of his, but by Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Abdul Latif bin Abdul Aziz bin Abdul Rahman Al-Sheikh, during a television interview with the program’s host, Abdullah Al-Mudayfir.
Al-Sheikh previously served as the General President of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. He holds a PhD with first honors in Islamic propagation from Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University and was special advisor to the Governor of Riyadh. Now, what is the opinion of Mr. Mohammad Al-Wasmi, Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, regarding this enlightened view? Will it be implemented in mosques during and after Ramadan?
By Ahmad alsarraf
email: [email protected]
email: [email protected]
