Ramadhan, the Month of God (14)

Welcome to the 14th episode of “Ramadhan, the Month of God”. Let us first recite the special supplication for the 14th of Ramadhan:

 “O Allah, do not take me to task this day for my lapses; pardon me in it my slips and offences; and do not make me the target therein of afflictions and blights; with Your might, O Might of the Muslims!”

The fasting of the blessed month of Ramadhan has many individual and social effects. But the greatest effect is Godwariness for the faithful. Godwariness or piety and being always cognizant of the Almighty Creator, grants dignity to a person. Imam Ali (AS), the First Infallible Heir of Prophet Mohammad (SAWA), has said, "Whoever does not elevate himself, nobody will elevate him."

God has created human beings as the most superior species of the best of all creatures. The month of Ramadhan is a good opportunity to muse on this fact. Understanding this helps us stand firmly against hardships and carnal desires. The fasting of Ramadhan is an exercise in accordance with the rational commandments of God Almighty to avoid food, drinks and other lawful acts during the daylight hours, as a test and tribulation to ascertain one’s degree of faith. The fasting person thus carries out these commandments to attain higher goals. Another important point is that fasting strengthens faith in God. Basically, good deeds and faith are complement to each other and strengthen each other. Firm faith in God creates peace of mind and tranquility of heart, by removing anxiety and aimlessness. Ayah 28 of surah Ra'd reads, "Look! The hearts find rest in God's remembrance."

One of the greatest acts of worship in the month of Ramadhan is recitation of the holy Qur'an. The Prophet of Islam instructed Muslims to read this final and most comprehensive Heavenly Scripture more frequently during this month. A statement from the Prophet’s 5^th Infallible Heir, Imam Mohammad Baqer (AS), says: "Everything has a spring and the spring of the Qur'an is the month of Ramadhan."

The Qur'an is the Revealed Word of God for the guidance of all human beings, and reading it causes serenity. This divine miracle has made it clear several times that the fate of man is in his own hand. Ayah 38 of surah Muddaththir reads, "Every soul is hostage to what it has earned."

Thus, a Muslim knows that he/she should strive consciously in the way of guidance and success. Furthermore, God promises ample rewards for the doers of good deeds. Ayah 160 of surah An'am makes this clear:

"Whoever brings good deed shall receive ten times its like; but whoever brings bad deed shall not be requited except with its like, and they will not be wronged."

According to the Qur'anic teachings, a Muslim realizes that his/her salvation and misery is in his/her hand and if he/she chooses the path of guidance, he/she will receive ample reward. Naturally, such a person faces life and its vicissitudes with complete confidence. Ayah 15 of Surah Isra' says:

"Whoever is guided is guided only for his own soul, and whoever goes astray, goes astray only to its detriment. And No bearer shall bear another's burden."

A Muslim learns, especially in the month of Ramadhan, to know his real value as God has granted him the opportunity to partake of the Divine Banquet, which is indeed an honour. The human being has the potential to serve as God's vicegerent provided that he is firm and steadfast on the right path, with belief in the abilities that God has granted. Imam Ali (AS), the Prophet’s First Infallible Heir, has said: "A learned person is the one who knows his worth and value."

Furthermore, Islam warns human beings that sin degrade him/her, and if such persons die in the unrepentant state of sins, or unbelief, they will face perpetual punishment in afterlife, in contrast to the eternal bliss of paradise that awaits the pious and steadfast believers, who attain God's proximity by abstaining from what God has forbidden.

Imam Ali (AS) has said in this regard: "He who has a dignified and noble self will not debase it with the filth of sin."

The month of Ramadhan is a precious opportunity for self-building, refraining from sins and seeking forgiveness. The Messenger of Mercy, Prophet Mohammad (SAWA) says, "Satans are chained in this month."

Thus, according to the Prophet's remark, it is easier to march in the path of God during Ramadhan. Imam Ali (AS) says, "Do not be the servant of another as God has created you free."

God says in ayah 3 of surah Talaq, "Whoever puts his trust in God, He will suffice him".

The blessed month of Ramadhan is the opportunity for firming up our faith and trust in God, with unflinching hope in Divine Mercy, since it is the promise of the All-Merciful Creator which is always true, rather than the promises of others.  

AS/ME