Traditional prayer recited at Maiden's Cave: Words of support, encouragement, and guidance

(Patria) - A traditional prayer was recited today at the prayer site near Maiden's Cave in the Brateljevići community, Islamic Community (MIZ) Kladanj.

A special program was also held on this occasion, as the central and concluding event of the "Prayer at Maiden's Cave" manifestation.

The choir "Mošus" from Brčko performed as part of the program, and Dr. Mustafa Prljača spoke as the envoy of the reis-ul-ulema of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

– Prayer sites represent an important, I would say, essential component of our culture. They have a deep tradition, but also a purpose, because everything about them is positive and strengthens the overall Bosnian-Herzegovinian culture – explained Dr. Prljača.

Gathering at such places, Prljača emphasizes, involves socializing, making new acquaintances, and reciting prayers.

– At these places, we also offer words of support, encouragement, and guidance to our people. A large number of believers gather here, so this is an opportunity to convey messages to them and point them in the direction we should be moving – emphasized Dr. Prljača.

As the host of the event, the chief imam of the Islamic Community (MIZ) Kladanj, Asim-ef. Esmić, reminded that prayer sites symbolize identity in the broadest sense, from the religious to the patriotic aspect.

– We are here to, in a way, strengthen our faith, to ask the Lord to accept the good we do, to improve our condition for the better, and for our future, God willing, to be brighter than our past – said efendija Esmić.

He also emphasized that by gathering people from all over the homeland and the diaspora, the continuity in presenting the values of faith is confirmed.

– Turning towards the Creator of all that exists, we want to feel the spirit of nature in which we are located and once again bear witness to our belonging to our homeland, Bosnia and Herzegovina – said efendija Esmić.

Dr. Ahmed Hatunić, envoy of the Tuzla mufti, also attended the program, noting that such gatherings testify to the life choices and decisions of believers.

– Our centuries-old gatherings say a lot about us. We gather because we want to fulfill our fundamental task and the most important commandment, submission and servitude to the Lord – he stated.

It is precisely in that Quranic commandment, Dr. Hatunić said, that the meaning of life, which many seek, is contained.

– That is why our hearts yearn and go towards mosques and places where Almighty Allah is glorified and remembered – said Dr. Hatunić.

In addition to the Medžlis, the organizer of the event is also the Municipality of Kladanj, and the mayor, Edis Šarić, said that today's gathering is a symbolic image of preserving and passing on universal values.

– Today, we are sending a message of unity and the intention to pass these values on to younger generations. We believe that they will uphold this tradition, be aware of the space in which we live, and follow moral values – said Mayor Šarić.

Believers from all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina specifically plan to visit this prayer site.

Alija Džankić, who returned to his native Živinice after retiring, shared his impressions with us. He says that visiting this prayer site completes his summer.

– Coming here means a lot to me, as an opportunity to get out, meet acquaintances, but also meet new people who love and appreciate the same things as I do – Alija tells us.

He says he tries to visit all the major prayer sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina, from Ajvatovica to Buna. He notes that he is particularly pleased by the presence of some young people.

– I truly admire the youth who come, with all the other opportunities available to them today – says Alija.

Vejzović Kadira and Enisa are here every year. They experience their presence as responding to the call to prayer, but also as respecting their own tradition and following the practice of their predecessors.

– I cannot recall a single year when I was not at this prayer site. There is a beautiful natural environment here, a religious program, and useful lectures. I would recommend everyone to come, see, and stay here. They will surely want to come again – notes Kadira.

Life experience has taught them, they say, that encounters with learned people are an opportunity to receive advice or guide one's own behavior in daily life.

– You can only take what is good from here. As an impression or something new learned. We take that to our homes and talk about it – Enisa told us.

The "Days of Maiden's Cave" manifestation, with the dedication of the organizers, is also supported by the Tuzla Mufti's office, the Government of Tuzla Canton, and the Tourist Board.

The entire manifestation, within which religious, cultural, educational, and sports events were realized, lasted from August 25 to 31.