After two extremely powerful earthquakes struck the Turkish region of Kahramanmaras yesterday, rescue teams continue frantic efforts to search the remains of destroyed buildings for missing men, women, and children. [1]
We extend our heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones, and we pray that Allah grants strength and patience to all the affected.
The combined death toll has already reached upwards of 5,000 in Syria and Türkiye. In terms of the global response, the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has stated that seventy countries have offered assistance. [1]
On an individual level, here are four key things YOU can do to help:
1 | Make du’ā for the earthquake survivors
Call upon Allah to grant the best of compensation to those who have lost their loved ones, their homes, businesses, and have been impacted by these twin earthquakes.
And call upon Allah to grant them the best in this world and the next, and that everything that people have lost be replaced with much better.
2 | Remind one another that we face trials as an Ummah
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,
“This people of mine is one to which mercy is shown. It will have no punishment in the next world, but its punishment in this world will be trials, earthquakes, and being killed.” [2]
The two earthquakes that have decimated large parts of Syria and Türkiye affect not just those in the region – Muslims throughout the world feel in their pain and we have strength in facing difficulties as a collective body.
We must remind our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters that we are always united, not only during the “good times”, but also in times of challenge.
3 | Donate with the best intentions
The sheer scale of the destruction from these two earthquakes has shaken the world. Humanitarian organisations and government leaders are calling on people to donate in whatever way possible.
Donate as much as you can to our charity partner, One Ummah, who are raising urgent funds for aid packs that include blankets, food, water, and shelter.
4 | Check-in on Turks & Syrians in your community
In addition to those who have passed away or been injured in the earthquakes, there may also be family and friends of those directly affected living at your doorstep!
Take a moment to check on them, and offer a hand if they require any support. It goes without saying that being a good neighbour is from the teachings of Islam.
And in particular, for any Turkish or Syrian Muslims in your community, be sure to let them know that they are in your prayers.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said,
“The parable of the believers – in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other – is that of a body.
“When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.” [3]
Also read
- 2,300+ dead and 3,000+ injured in Türkiye-Syria twin quakes
- Creed of Catastrophe: What to Believe in Good & Bad Times
Source: Islam21c
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