Al Khalid

In the spirit of Ramadan

O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint (Taqwa). (Quran 2:183)

Yes, Ramadan is starting in two days – the month that every Muslim looks forward to pray and embrace themselves in the arms of spirituality.

The word Ramadan has its roots in the Arabic word that means ‘parched thirst’ and ‘sun-baked ground’. The motif behind fasting is to realise & sympathise with those people who have very little or nothing to eat & drink every day. Those 4 weeks of fasting teaches to be more charitable and humble in our lives.

The verse from Quran makes it clear that fasting is the way of learning Taqwa. It is God-consciousness that helps a person to be fully aware of the presence of Allah in every second of his/her life.

Fasting also amplifies devotion and brings the person closer to Allah. It lets the person realise that everything that we have, is a blessing from Allah. Fasting also teaches us self-control and inculcates good manners, polite speech and thoughtful habits.

Fasting also stands as one of the major pillars of Islam.  It was noted when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Islam is based on (the following) five (principles):

To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah’s Apostle;

to establish the prayers;

to pay Zakat (i.e. obligatory charity);

to perform Hajj (i.e. Pilgrimage to Makkah);

to observe fast during the month of Ramadan.” [Bukhari: (narrated by) Abdullah Ibn ‘Umar]

There is a holy zone that you enter when you start praying during the month of Ramadan. The dedication & loyalty towards fasting and praying proves that you are ready to surrender in front of Him and want to take hold of your life.

It is a month that millions of people experience change that they are able to inculcate even after this month. One needs to combine good deeds like prayer, fasting and charity during this holy month and Allah promises immense rewards. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Whoever establishes prayers during the nights of Ramadan faithfully out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards (not for showing off), all his past sins will be forgiven.” [Bukhari: Abu Hurayrah]

Every Muslims craves the state of God-consciousness, through fasting where no evil can tame or hinder in this holy process. The fasting actually acts a shield and the person becomes Allah’s true servant. Confirming that he said, “When My servants ask thee (Muhammad) concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me: Let them also, with a will, Listen to My call, and believe in Me: That they may walk in the right way.” (2: 186)

Embrace this month with grace, humility and love. You will attain celestial experience. Ramadan Kareem.