Ramadan: The Blessed Month of Fasting
Introduction about Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims around the world. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and spiritual rejuvenation. Ramadan is not just a ritual; it is a deeply cherished and meaningful time for Muslims, marked by a deep connection to Allah, community, and self-improvement.
Importance of Ramadan in Light of Quranic Verses:
- The Revelation of the Quran: Ramadan is significant because it marks the month during which the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). This momentous event is mentioned in Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97), underscoring the significance of this blessed month.
- Fasting as an Act of Worship: The Quran commands Muslims to fast during Ramadan as an act of worship and devotion to Allah. In Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2), verse 183, Allah says, “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” Fasting serves as a means to attain taqwa (God-consciousness) and righteousness.
- Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr): One of the most important aspects of Ramadan is the Night of Decree, or Laylat al-Qadr. Allah states in Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97), “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” Muslims believe that during this night, the Quran was first revealed, and it is a time when prayers are especially accepted.
Hadith Mubarak (Sayings of Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him):
- “When Ramadan begins, the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” – Sahih al-Bukhari
- “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.” – Sahih al-Bukhari
- “Fasting is a shield; so when one of you is fasting, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise his voice in anger. If someone attacks him or insults him, let him say: ‘I am fasting!'” – Sahih al-Bukhari
Conclusion: Ramadan is a month of immense spiritual significance in Islam, where Muslims engage in fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. It is a time to draw closer to Allah, seek forgiveness, and reflect on one’s actions. The Quranic verses and Hadith Mubarak emphasize the virtues of Ramadan and its importance in the life of a Muslim. May this Ramadan bring peace, blessings, and spiritual growth to all who observe it. Ramadan Mubarak!
“Whoever establishes prayers during the nights of Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Muslim)
“When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
“Fasting is a shield; so when one of you is fasting, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise his voice in anger. If someone attacks him or insults him, let him say: ‘I am fasting!'” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183): “يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ”
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183): “يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ”