6 Beneficial Ramadan Tips
Ramadan is a time filled with many blessings and rewards. It’s a special month, singled out in Quran from all the others and is unlike any other.
“Ramaḍan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the standard ˹to distinguish between right and wrong˺. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful.” (Quran 2:185)
For Muslims around the world Ramadan means fasting and family. And while all that is true on one level, Ramadan is so much more for the believer.
Narrated Abu Huraira:Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven. (Sahih al-Bukhari 38)
Increasing in good actions is a great way to make sure you benefit from Ramadan. Here are six areas to focus your attention so you get the most benefit out of your Ramadan, having received the blessings and rewards it offers, InshaAllah.
-
Re-Establish Your Intention
Although we all know Ramadan is meant for fasting, we sometimes don’t give it the extra care and thought required to benefit from our fasting. Take a second to contemplate this month and the purpose behind fasting. Make your intention to fulfill your obligation before Allah, but also do it in the best of ways, such as giving up bad habits. Or being mindful of what you say and do. Your intention to fast for the Pleasure of Allah changes how you approach this blessed and wonderful month.
Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many learn piety and righteousness” (Quran 2:183)
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, ‘I am fasting.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) added, “By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. (Allah says about the fasting person), ‘He has left his food, drink and desires for My sake. The fast is for Me. So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1894)
-
Fix Your Family Relationships
Keeping a strong relationship with our family is very important for us believers. It impacts our faith and connection with Allah directly. Therefore, making sure to be in contact with family members is part of our faith (iman), especially family members that do not respond back in kindness or at all. Our duty is to keep the ties of kinship regardless of how people treat us. In doing this we strengthen our relationship with our Creator and perhaps He will be well Pleased.
‘Abdu’r-Rahman ibn ‘Awf heard the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, “Allah, the Almighty and Exalted, said, ‘I am the Merciful (ar-Rahman). I have created ties of kinship and derives a name for it from My Name. If anyone maintains ties of kinship, I maintain connection with him, and I shall cut off anyone who cuts them off.’ (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 53)
-
Take Special Care of Your Parents
Part of taking care of our family relationships is paying special attention to our parents. Days turn into months, and we may have not called or asked about their well-being. Perhaps they have needs we have not met because we have been busy with our lives. Consider Ramadan the perfect time to establish the habit of taking care of our parents.
Maybe they aren’t very old and don’t need help, but we can still show them care and love by serving them in any way we know how. Maybe your mom likes a special sweet dish, so make it for her. Or if you can’t, ship it to her. Maybe your dad is feeling lonely, so make a point of calling him every week. Small things like this are all it takes to care for our parents. It requires us to see the human side of our parents and make a point of trying to fulfill their needs even if they don’t ask for anything. May Allah bless all our parents for all that they have done/do for us, Ameen.
It is reported that al-Miqdam ibn Ma’dikarib heard the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, “Allah enjoins you to be dutiful to your mothers.
Then He enjoins you to be dutiful to your mothers. Then He enjoins you to be dutiful to your fathers.
Then He enjoins you to be dutiful to your next closest relative and then to your next closest relative.” (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 60)
-
Take Care of Your Neighbors
There are so many good actions that we can do in the month of Ramadan, and there is no reason we should not strive to do it all. Of course, some actions such as our salat, dhikr/tasbih and reading Quran are all part of our worship. It involves no one except us and our connection with Allah. However, there are also many rewards that can be attained through helping others and taking care of them.
Aisha reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Gabriel continued to instruct me to treat neighbors well until I thought he would make them my heirs.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6014, Sahih Muslim 2624)
-
Keep Your Good Actions to Yourself
In Ramadan we all strive to do better. Some decide they’ll read the entire Quran, maybe even a few times, others might want to volunteer their time doing charity work, some may be leading tarawih or be up all night in salat. The point is our good actions are for ourselves, and though we might feel happy that we’re doing what we set out to do, we spoil those actions by boasting about it. Make your intentions to do good, and go out and do it, but there’s no need to tell others. The One that Knows All, already knows what you’re doing. Speaking about our good deeds might be a means of removing the goodness from us.
Narrated Jundub: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “He who lets the people hear of his good deeds intentionally, to win their praise, Allah will let the people know his real intention (on the Day of Resurrection), and he who does good things in public to show off and win the praise of the people, Allah will disclose his real intention (and humiliate him). (Sahih al-Bukhari 6499)
-
Make Lots of Dua (Supplication)
This last point seems so obvious but sometimes we miss it because we remember dua after salat and not other times. You can always ask of Allah and not just after salat. Dua is worship:
An-Nu’man bin Bashir (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Du’a (supplication) is worship.” (Abu Dawud : Riyad as-Salihin 1465)
The youth especially have difficulty making dua because they say, “Well, what should I ask for”? While the sunnah is filled with many different types of duas that can be made, you can’t literally ask for anything. The best place to start is by asking Allah for guidance, as we do in every salat during surah Fatiha. If we are guided, we will be fine, by Allah’s Grace in this World and the hereafter. But without guidance no matter what we do, we will not be on the right path. So, ask deeply for guidance, and success in this life and the hereafter.
This is the recommended dua when breaking your fast:
Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Verily, the supplication of a fasting person is not turned away at the time of breaking fast.”
Abdullah would say when breaking fast, “O Allah, I ask You by You mercy, which encompasses all things, to forgive me.” (Sunan Ibn Mājah 1753)
![Understanding Islam: Delving Deeper into 0ther Beliefs and Practices Islam is not just a religion, but a comprehensive way of life that extends beyond the regular practice of prayers and fasting. In this blog, we venture beyond the common understanding of Islam to explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?' We delve into the multi-dimensional aspects of Islam, unpacking its spiritual, ethical, social, and legal systems, while also shedding light on its practices and beliefs that intersect with hope and inspiration. Belief in Islam: Beyond the Five Pillars Islam is commonly associated with its five pillars - the shahada (faith), salat (prayer), zakat (charity), sawm (fasting), and the Hajj (pilgrimage). However, the beliefs of Islam extend far beyond these core practices. A critical element of Islam is belief in the divine destiny or Qadr. According to a Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari, Qadr encompasses both the good and the evil, contributing to a Muslim’s resilience and hope during challenging times. "...Everything is predetermined by Allah, even laziness and intelligence." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6614) In addition, Islam emphasizes the concept of Akhlaq, or good moral conduct. As illustrated in the Quran, "...do what is beautiful. Allah loves those who do what is beautiful." (Quran, 2:195). These teachings stir inspiration and encourage a morally grounded lifestyle. Practice of Islam: An All-Encompassing Way of Life Practice in Islam goes beyond religious rituals, encapsulating every aspect of daily life. It’s a holistic approach, incorporating aspects of ethics, spirituality, and societal interactions. From business ethics to family ties and environmental stewardship, all spheres of life are governed by the principles of Islam, fostering a harmonious existence for both the individual and the community. Islamic teachings inspire Muslims to continuously strive for growth, improvement and to contribute positively to society. An example can be found in the hadith: "The best people are those most beneficial to people" (Sahih Muslim 2588). Insha'Allah, such principles nurture a sense of hope and serve as a living testament to the universality and comprehensiveness of Islam. Further Understanding Islam While this post delves into some aspects of Islam beyond the commonly understood facets, there's more to learn. Here at IQRA Network, we invite you to further explore Islam's beliefs and practices, continuing on this journey of understanding, hope, and inspiration. More sections can be added to delve into the various sub-themes and topics that arise when exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Social Aspects of Islam Islam is not just about a personal relationship with the divine but also connects Muslims socially and ethically. It promotes brotherhood and peace, with guidelines aimed at fostering respectful and caring relations within the community and beyond. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated, "None of you will truly believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself." (Sahih al-Bukhari 13). Masha'Allah, this communal spirit reflects in the way Ramadan, Eid and other Islamic events bring Muslims together, inspiring harmony and fellowship. Islam also intersects with societal obligations, creating a sense of social justice. It stipulates rights and protection for every individual, regardless of their social or economic standing. As the Quran states, "...And do not deprive people of their due..." (Quran, 26:183). Therefore, Islam fosters a holistic approach to life, encouraging mutual respect, compassion, and fairness in every walk of life. Islam and Inner Peace Beyond its outward practices, Islam also emphasizes inner peace and tranquillity. It encourages mindfulness and peace, and a divine connection fosters contentment in followers. The Quran says, "Those who believe, their hearts find rest in Allah's remembrance. Isn't it in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find rest?" (Quran, 13:28). Thus, Islam provides a constant source of comfort, allowing Muslims to remain hopeful even in times of trial and tribulation. Moreover, the soul's purification is a crucial aspect of Islamic belief, and practices like Salah (prayer) and Zakat (charity) are tools for spiritual cleansing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Prayer is a light; charity is proof [of one's faith]..." (Sahih Muslim 1). Thus, these practices not only fulfill religious duties but also infuse a sense of peace and clarity, adding a broader dimension to 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam's Emphasis on Knowledge Islam encourages its followers to be seekers of knowledge. From learning about the universe, human behaviour, to the teachings within the Quran, the pursuit of knowledge is seen as a form of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) imparted, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah 224). SubhanAllah, this teaching inspires hope, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to understanding and growth. The Quran itself is seen as the primary source of knowledge, guiding Muslims in all aspects of life. The Quran states, "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah" (Quran, 2:2). At IQRA Network, we understand how critical this guidance is, and through our various learning programs, we aim to help our students navigate through life's journey with wisdom and understanding. The Universality of Islam While born in the Arabian Peninsula, Islam's teachings are universal, transcending cultural, racial, and geographical boundaries. At its core, Islam propounds the belief in the oneness of God and the unity of mankind, exemplified by the annual Hajj pilgrimage where Muslims from around the world converge in Mecca in a display of global unity. Islam embraces cultural diversity and advocates for equality, affirming that no individual is superior over another except by virtue and piety. As emphasized in the Quran, "0 mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you." (Quran, 49:13). This principle of inclusivity and equality propels the message of unity, enriching the multilayered narrative of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam and Environmental Stewardship Within the broad spectrum of Islamic teachings, there's also a distinct emphasis on environmental stewardship. Environmental rights are embedded in Islamic principles, implying the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of natural resources. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said: "The world is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it." (Sahih Muslim 1702). Alhamdulillah, these divine guidelines encourage responsible utilization, drawing a perfect balance between man and nature. The concept of "tawheed" or the oneness of God extends to the unity of nature, reminding Muslims of their duty towards the environment. This belief is backed by the Quran, which says: "...And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you..." (Quran, 6:38). Consequently, respecting and caring for all living beings brings us a step closer to understanding 'what is Islam other beliefs?' The Role of Charity in Islam Within Islam, charity is more than a noble act; it's a fundamental pillar that shapes the believer's character and actions. Disbursing from one's wealth to support those in need creates a sense of community and solidarity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: "Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity." (Tirmidhi Vol. 6, Book 45, Hadith 2487). This notion fuels the spirit of selflessness and mutual care. The significance of charity is further reinforced in the Quran: "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills..." (Quran, 2:261). Thus, practicing charity in Islam manifests a commitment to safeguarding social justice and equality, contributing to this quest to understand 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Health and Hygiene in Islam Health and hygiene are integral parts of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to maintain a healthy body and mind to fully realize their potential and fulfill their religious and social responsibilities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6412). Insha'Allah, these teachings imbue the vital importance of health preservation, constituting a significant part of 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Hygiene also holds a prominent place in Islamic teachings. Regular ablutions, cleanliness during prayer and the call for personal hygiene underline this emphasis. As the Quran states, "... Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean." (Quran, 2:222). Thus, the coupling of health and hygiene reflects the comprehensive approach Islam adopts to ensure the well-being of its followers. Islam and Family Life Family occupies a central role in the social structure of Islam. Establishing harmonious family relations provides a secure and nurturing environment, promoting peace and stability. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The best of you is the one who is best to his family..." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3252). SubhanAllah, these teachings resonate with the values of love, respect, and care. The Quran also sheds light on the mutual rights and responsibilities of family members, contributing to a balanced family system. For instance, it emphasizes upon children's respect for parents, with the verse, "...do not say to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word." (Quran, 17:23). So, exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' unveils a comprehensive framework that guides individuals in fulfilling their familial roles effectively, creating a harmonious society. Women's Rights in Islam Contrary to popular misconceptions, Islam holds women in high esteem, offering them a balance of rights and responsibilities. The Quran highlights the importance of women's rights and their equal standing with men: "And their Lord responded to them, 'Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another...'" (Quran, 3:195). Masha'Allah, Islam promotes equality, advocating for women's participation in various aspects of life, from religious to social and economic spheres. The Prophetic tradition also underlines the respect and kindness due to women. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught, "The best among you are those who are best to their wives." (Ibn Majah Vol. 3, Book 9, Hadith 1978). These teachings of equity and respect add another layer as we explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Conclusion Providing a snapshot of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' uncovers a rich and comprehensive way of life that extends beyond prayer and fasting. Islam offers guidance on various aspects of life, encompassing belief systems and practices that inspire hope and promote spiritual, moral, and social well-being. It encourages peace, promotes knowledge and charity, respects diversity, advocates environmental stewardship, upholds family values, and emphasises health and hygiene. As we delve deeper into the teachings of Islam, we appreciate its universality and inclusiveness, recognizing how its practices nourish the mind, heart, and soul. Insha'Allah, as we study and reflect upon these teachings at IQRA Network, we navigate a path filled with wisdom, benefiting ourselves and those around us.](https://iqranetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Beliefs-and-Practices.png)
0 Comments
Oops comments are disabled