The call to prayer is not merely an announcement; it is the heartbeat of our community, echoing through the streets and into our hearts. This vital sound is carried by our beloved muazin, who has dedicated his life to this sacred duty. From the very first light of dawn to the quiet moments before sunset, our muazin is there, steadfast and unwavering. Every day, without fail, a voice that resonates like a gentle breeze, calls us to prayer. It is a sound that stirs something deep within us, a reminder of our purpose and our connection to something greater than ourselves. His voice is a beacon, guiding us back to our creator.

There are days where all I want to do is lie in bed disconnected from the world with no desire to life. I close and lock my door to lock everything of the world out as I stare at the white ceiling yearning for inspiration or a guide from above. My tears and sadness wet my pillowcase such that lying in bed becomes uncomfortable. I toss and turn in every direction with new thoughts and problems. There within the blankets I hear the call to prayer. An athaan so consistent yet with such an impact. As the words hinder through my thoughts, I find peace and solace in the athaan of my muazin. Minute by thought but hefty on my soul. Nabee Muhammed صلى اللّه عليه وسلم emphasized the importance of the muazin when he said, “The muazin will have the longest neck on the Day of Resurrection” (Sahih Muslim). This hadith illustrates the honour bestowed upon those who fulfil this role with sincerity and love. Our muazin exemplifies this honour daily, reminding us of the beauty and significance of our faith.

Over the years there has been countless memorable moments that highlight the special bond we share with our muazin. Some of the most memorable are during Ramadhaan. As the sun sets, our muazin with his melodic call to prayer, creates a serene atmosphere, signalling the end of the days fast. Dastars are set by him with a variety of dates, water and traditional foods, inviting all our young boys and men to gather. The aroma of freshly fried and baked savouries fills the air as everyone shares in the joy of breaking fast together, untied by faith beyond tradition. As the first light of dawn breaks on Eid morning, our muazin arrives first, laying out all the musallahs by the Eidgah, aligning them in neat rows to accommodate the congregation. Each musallahs is placed with precision, ensuring ample space for everyone. Our Muazins dedication to creating an inviting environment reflects the communal spirit of Eid, as he prepares for the spiritual gathering that celebrates unity and gratitude.

In a world that can often feel divided, our muazin serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and compassion. His call to prayer transcends language and culture, bringing us together as one family, bound by our shared beliefs and values. In the words of Nabee Muhammed صلى اللّه عليه وسلم “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” (Sahih Bukhari). Our muazin embodies this ideal, reflecting kindness, humility, and a deep-seated love for the community.

Let me come a little close to home and touch on a more pertinent example he leads by, As my grandfather battles through Alzheimer’s making it almost impossible for us at home to assist him at times. It is only with great honour and without a doubt a day where our muazin is not a call away. His calm collected demeanour while bathing my grandfather is truly admirable. Not once did he raise his voice or hand in order to reprimand him. A task not anyone would endure. But allow me to dwell a little more on character as I attest to his respect for the women of the household which is beyond explanation. He has always sought permission to enter the house lowering his gaze. This is just but one story of a legend our community is enriched by.

Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Al Khudri (RA) narrates that Nabee Muhammed صلى اللّه عليه وسلم said, ” Every jinn or human or anything else that hears the voice of the muazin will bear witness to it in the Day of Resurrection” (Sahih Bukhari). This hadith states that everything hears the call to prayer. In our small farm town of Leandra, a cow stands in the blazing hot sun on a nearby field. It’s large eyes reflecting a sense of tranquility. Upon hearing the athaan, it lifts its head, chewing its hay more slowly as if in contemplation. The rhythmic sound brings a moment of stillness and the cow seems to share in the serenity. In a nearby coop, a chicken stops scratching the ground and tilts its head, listening intently. The call penetrates the usual clucks and flutters, creating a rare moment of silence we all unite by.