Islam_in_Focus_text

first to the greater need and allows resort to the "lesser evil";
that it works with a system of priorities from the most im-
portant to the least important and from the least to the most
undesirable; and that it is both resourceful and adaptive.
Based on these principles, the problem can be solved easily.
The solution derives from the spirit of Islam even though it
may appear to depart slightly from some literal interpreta-
tions. The solution can be implemented in stages and on var-
ious levels.
First, Muslims should do everything possible to provide
adequate facilities for refrigeration so that the surplus meat
may be conserved and used by the poor in and around the
hoiy places throughout the year. Secondly, efforts should
also be made to transport the surplus meat to the needy Mus-
lims wherever they may be. The sacrifice animals can be
slaughtered in Mecca and the meat may be canned or frozen
and then transported to any part of the world where there are
needy Muslims. Thirdly, the surplus meat can be sold and
the money used for charitable purposes on a local, regional,
national or international scale. These are practicable meas-
ures which Muslims should enact jointly. In the meantime
and until such steps are taken, any Muslim who feels that the
surplus meat will go to waste may delay or advance the date
of his sacrifice. He may choose the proper time and place to
avoid any waste. Or he could pay in charity to a legitimate