Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday wished the Muslim community well ahead of the month of Ramadan.
During this time, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. Fasting is intended to teach Muslims about patience, humility and spirituality.
"So at this time of the year, we wish the Muslim communities well for the month of Ramadan. We respect the sacrifices you will be making to empathize with the millions in our country and around the globe who suffer the pangs of hunger and deprivation every day," said Zuma in a message on Tuesday.
Ramadan is regarded as a time of deep introspection, a profound occasion of tightening family, community bonds and increased generosity. "As a world example of peaceful change and transformation, these are qualities that we as South Africans cherish," the President said.
The President added that none of the change South Africa has been able to bring about in the last 15 years would have been possible without self-introspection. "We had to revitalise bonds with fellow South Africans to embrace our diversity. Through our generosity, we allowed each one of us the space to fulfill potential. That made us a true Rainbow Nation that we are today."
"May this month of Ramadan be a truly profound moment of spiritual rejuvenation and fulfillment to you all," Zuma added.
