Imama Mufti – Hiba Magazine Team Writer
Ramadan is not just a month of fasting; it is a month of declaration of love for Allah (swt) and reminds us of what truly matters- our relationship with our Creator.
Allah states in the Quran: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Al Baqarah 2:183)
The goal of Ramadan is piety. In a world filled with endless distractions, from social media to work pressures, Ramadan teaches us to reform our hearts and prioritize Allah (swt) above everything else. It is a time to prove that our love for Him surpasses our love for worldly pleasures.
The daily acts of self-discipline i.e. giving up food, drink, Halal desires and other comforts, which are a necessary part of our existence, teach us that true fulfilment is found in spiritual nourishment and not only physical gratification. When we fast, we willingly give up food, drink, and other comforts, not because we cannot have them, but because we choose to put Allah (swt) first. Fasting is considered incredible for the body scientifically, but the biggest thing is understanding everything we are capable of- mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Fasting clears the noise of everyday life, helping us see the bigger picture. By removing the distractions of eating and drinking, Allah (swt) allows us to break free from the cycle of constant physical indulgence and redirect our focus towards what really matters- our devotion to Allah (swt).
Less Distractions, More Focus
When we love Allah (swt) more, we realize that our hearts were created for something greater than temporary pleasures. We create more space to think clearly and stay focused. Our minds are constantly processing information, and necessary or even unnecessary content drains our physical as well as mental energy. By consciously eliminating it, we can redirect our focus towards what deserves attention. The increased focus will allow us to make the most of Ramadan, internalizing its lessons and carrying them beyond the month itself.
Now why is this principle especially powerful during Ramadan? Because without the constant interruptions of daily life, we can experience deeper Khushu in our prayers, more meaningful Quran recitation, a deeper awareness of our spiritual growth, a clear mind and a heart that is more tranquil.
Tasting the sweetness of faith during Ramadan
- Call Allah (swt) through His names and attributes: The more you learn about Allah (swt), the more your love for Him will grow.
- Understand Allah’s (swt) creation plan: When you realize that every disturbance in your life is meant to help you grow, eliminate your sins, elevate your ranks, take you closer to your perfect home in Jannah, you won’t mind those toxic people or the so called trouble makers in your life.
- Repent: Purify yourself physically and mentally, reshape your lifestyle. Turning to Allah (swt) in repentance strengthens our relationship with Him.
- Read and reflect on the Quran: Prefer quality over quantity, fill yourself with the recitation of Quran. Reading, understanding, and implementing its teachings in your daily life will deepen lessons and develop coping skills you need.
- Strengthen your relationship through Salah: Praying on time, increasing voluntary prayers, making abundant sincere Duas will keep you uplifted.
- Engage in increased Dhikr: Constant remembrance of Allah (swt) keeps your heart connected to Him and doesn’t let you fall into despair or hopelessness.
- Express gratitude for each blessing individually and collectively: A deep sense of gratitude distinguishes a believer from one deprived of faith. Reflect on Allah’s (swt) countless blessings- upon you, your family, the Ummah, humanity, and all of creation. You have more of what you never asked for but were granted by Allah’s (swt) care.
Beyond Ramadan: Cultivating a lasting love for Allah (swt)
Attaining the love of Allah (swt) is a journey. In the beginning, a person might struggle to fully love what Allah (swt) loves because their heart is attached to personal desires. However, as they grow closer to Allah (swt) through worship and mindful thinking, they start to free themselves from these desires. Over time, their love for anything other than Allah (swt) fades, and they begin to prefer what He prefers. True love for Allah (swt) is constant. It is reflected in our daily prayers, in our efforts to follow His guidance, and in the way we treat others. The challenge is to carry this love beyond Ramadan, making it a way of life rather than a seasonal devotion. Let this month be a turning point, where we learn to live with purpose.
Ramadan is a starting point, not an endpoint—it is a training ground that prepares us to cultivate a lasting, unshakeable bond with our Creator. Instead of treating Ramadan as a temporary boost in faith, we should use it as a school that teaches us how to stay devoted to Allah (swt) all year.
”O Allah, allow us to witness Ramadan, benefit from it, use it to earn Your pleasure and mercy, and emancipation from the Fire.”
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