Did you know that this was the Month of Ramadan where Muslims from around the world fast from sun rise to sun set for 30 days? This is the time of year I look forward to the most because it is filled with an abundance of special blessings and rewards for the one who fast. The month of Ramadan is when the Quran came down to Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessing be upon him) as a mercy and guide to humankind; and to confirm what was already with us (the scriptures that came down to Prophet Jesus, David, and Moses. Peace be upon them).
At the start of Ramadan, we receive Allah’s mercy, in the middle, forgiveness and at the end, deliverance from the hell fire. These blessing fill the hearts of Muslims in hope of pleasing Allah and receiving all the rewards mentioned and unmentioned for observing the fasting as prescribed from Allah in the Quran.
Muslims are excited and humbled by Ramadan and strive to complete it with the best of their efforts. Abstinence from food, drinking, and sexual intercourse with spouses during the daylight hours is prohibited until the fast has ended for the day. Throughout this month Muslims are motivated to increase their remembrance of Allah through saying and listening to words of praise (dikir), giving more in charity (sadaqah), making additional night prayers (taraweeh) and trying to read the whole Quran by the end of the month.
This special time brings family, friends, and the community closer together as we all strive towards the pleasure of Allah and achieving paradise (Jennah). Many Muslims break fast with other Muslims at their local Masjids (Place of Worship) or at the homes of family and friends. I personally enjoy going to different Masjids with my family for iftar (meal eaten after sunset) just to spend time with communities that I haven’t visited often during the year.
Being able to participate in Ramadan is an honor and it brings me hope of Allah’s mercy and a better future where my relationship with Allah grows and becomes stronger. While I appreciate the life of this world, the life of the next is what I strive for and put my effort towards. It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but the right thing pays off in the end.
As I reflect on my past Ramadan, I am grateful to make it to another one with the opportunity to improve upon the quality of my fast and to reap the benefits of this gift. It is a humbling, rewarding, and dignified time in my life that I will always cherish. Allah’s mercy overextends His wrath and I seek refuge in Him from Him.
You know, faith is such a personal experience and looks and feels different for all of us. Our journey to faith and in faith is unique to each individual being and can have an impact on our social, emotional, and mental self more than anything. What you believe shapes your perspective, your decision making, and ultimately your life. I hope this post helps you to reflect on what’s important to you and what you value the most.
We wish you complete healing!
