Meaning of sacrifice
The ntv was airing an online fund raising programme by a London based relief organisation named "Islamic Relief". It was in the afternoon in California, USA and late night in Bangladesh on December 2/3 2007. The telecast was interesting to watch, especially the question asked by would be donors. A number of questions was asked about the modus of operandi of the organisation in Bangladesh relief efforts. In support of their claim, they were projecting a tv documentary of relief work being undertaken by them in the affected areas. The moderator was supported by a high up of the organisation ( looked an Arab ) and one local Bangladeshi Islamic scholar as introduced by the moderator, a Bangladeshi.
A number of questions were asked about the creditability of the organisation, and also their links to Bangladesh authorities while running the relief efforts. They defended their organisation and the relief efforts in Bangladesh. Well enough, I have no comments as I have no clear idea about this organisation and their operational details in Bangladesh.
The reason I am writing this letter is: There were good number of questions regarding " Korbani" and relief. A number of would be donors asked whether instead of giving " Korbani" they coud use the same money for relief purpose in Sidr affected areas. The answer from the fund raisers was not clear and had some hesitation to give clear "YES" or "NO" answer. I decided to call the fund raiser and say what I have done in such a situation applying my common sense. I have skipped "Korbani" this year and the amount I have sent to an affected village to support one affected family . Unfortunately, the responder from the other side told me, " You cannot do it". The story ended there. I just had a moment to tell the gentleman that I used my common sense and did it. I stand fully by what I have done using my common sense and not in contravention of my religious belief. I have no intention to spark any controversy. I will be accountable to Allah if I have done anything wrong. The Almighty Allah will forgive me.
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