Earthquakes and other disasters
The earthquakes in Turkey and Syria is a remainder of human frailty and our dependence on God.
When disasters usually occur, many seek clarity in the spiritual or metaphysical realm, others look towards science. Since Muhammed was the last prophet, nobody has authority to claim any natural disaster is a penalty from the Creator. We simply do not have access to that knowledge anymore.
Thus, we are left with science, where some will talk tectonic plate movement and others about the abuse of the planet by greed for natural resources. People drill or blast into the earth for gas, oil, gold, diamonds and other minerals. Some suggest that perhaps the building standards in Turkey and Syria needs attention and those liable for ensuring compliance must be held liable at a later date.
What is vital to learn from any disaster is that we need reminding that we are all here for a short time? Example, in 100 years from now, all 8 billion of us besides a handful will be dead. It is vital that we tread softly upon the earth as the Creator does not like arrogance and selfishness?
Within a few minutes 40 000 people were dead and millions of lives, social and economic activities etc. was disrupted and ruined. As onlookers we must appreciate our lives and be grateful to the Creator for everything. We must know, anything can happen at any time and everything is fragile.
Hours before the earthquake people were making plans for the next day. Many were financially secure, happy and safe within their beautiful well-furnished homes. People were enjoying meals with family whilst others watched TV. Youngster were playing sports and life was just normal.
After the earthquake, wealthy people did not have homes, food or water. Homes and business were reduced to rubble and kids, fathers and mothers lay dead. Everything and anything can change within a minute and that is the message that this earthquake is sending to the rest of us.
Nothing lasts forever and what we possess will be left behind when we enter the bosom of the earth to return to the Creator. Within days, weeks or months, we will be forgotten and life will go on.
Those who are harming others or stealing from tax and ratepayers or just behave obnoxiously must realise that the only memories that others may remember of you are your deeds. Good and wicked.
Cllr Yagyah Adams
Cape Muslim Congress