Ramadan A Meaningful Time Of Reflection

An Image that broke 1.8 BN Hearts. Ramadan meaningful time of reflection

This Ramadan may seem disheartening at first on a cursory level. However, let’s hope it arrives at an ideal time for each one of us. Too often when we think about Ramadan, we only think about Suhur, Iftar, and congregational prayers of Taraweeh. However, our daily routine has changed this time, and so has the necessity to go out to pray or do charity work the way we used to.

Introspection : Ramadan a meaningful time

The planet we live in today has been abused by corruption, pollution, and wars over hundreds of years. As a result of decisions made by human beings. Mostly in favor of economy, politics, race, religion, and sometimes even revenge. However, nature has paid the ultimate price, but we seem to be fine with it as long as our lives go on. Well not anymore. Everything about the year 2020 so far has made it very clear. Life will simply not go on like this anymore. Why else have we been locked down.?

We have the choice to focus on self-correction. Purifying our hearts and minds for the sake of life on our planet from all forms of negativity. Likewise, with people, we all have a tendency to hurt. Seldom do we realize in our daily routines at work or home. Or even with our comments on social media in the race to become socially relevant. Seeking forgiveness helps in bringing a meaningful change within. Why else have we been forced to become physically distant.?

Lockdowns & Distancing

How many of us today, will use this extra free time for self-analysis.? I believe the true spirit is one of introspection, self-discovery, and self-development. Social gatherings and Iftar Parties during this Ramadan are also suspended. However, now, without the self-induced obligation of hosting or attending one. Iftars meals can be prepared with a focus on simplicity and aligned with Islamic principles. There can be a tendency to overeat at these large iftars due to the spread of food available. The focus of Ramadan 2020 can move away from extravagance to sharing our food with the less privileged on a daily basis.

The month of Ramadan is a meaningful time of giving back to the community through generous deeds. For 1.8 billion Muslims around the world, customs will have to be altered for the safety of the community. While many spend their mandatory Zakat (charity) but the way to do this is evolving. Noticeably, distributing charity a month before Ramadan 2020. In Pakistan, where 24.3% of the population lives below the poverty line the government is leading a fundraising and Relief Campaign to fight COVID-19. Likewise, charitable organizations are also delivering food and essentials for the underprivileged on a daily basis besides shelter. Pakistan is known for one of the highest display of charitable contributions in the world. Its Prime Minister leads by the example with one such charitable institution as his legacy. A State Of The Art Cancer Hospital SKMT.

Self Discovery and Development

In this time of crisis, as Muslims, we should reconnect with our creator. In a spiritual seclusion practice known as “itikāf.” Interestingly enough, this is the authentic practice of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) who would isolate for days in a cave at the top of a mountain. Also in the last 10 days of Ramadan. To introspect, reflect, worship with a purpose to connect with Allah”Subhanahu wa ta’ala” translates as “Glory to Him, the Exalted”.

Ramadan is a meaningful time for guidance. This is the month in which the Holy Quran (Islamic scripture) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). We the Muslims place a heavy emphasis on reading and understanding the Qur’an during this month. Now we must do it more ourselves and in Isolation with a necessity for a direct connection with Allah “SWT,”.

https://www.asimqureshi.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/59842815_10157214853423936_9026368058855260160_n.jpg — Reflecting at Hagia Sophia Istanbul

Ramadan a meaningful time

This Ramadan lets practice self-discovery through seclusion. A one-on-one connection with Allah “SWT,” through prayer and reflection. After all the word Islam literally means submission, to the will of God.

For me, therefore in observing to learn, this is the essence of Ramadan 2020.