RAMADHAAN
One of the connotations of the multi-faceted word, ‘Ramadhaan’ is to
incinerate one’s sins. This word is immortalized in the Noble Qur’an since
it is the only only month of the Islamic calendar referred to by its
specific name. Almighty Allah proclaims, ‘The month of Ramadhaan is that in
which the Qur’an was revealed.’ (Baqarah 85)
Almighty Allah says, ‘O you who believe, fasting is prescribed upon you as
it was prescribed upon those before you, so that you may inculcate Allah
consciousness.’ (Baqarah 183). This verse brings to light two important
factors, firstly, that fasting is a vehicle through which a Muslim
inculcates the quality of Taqwaa (consciousness of Allah). fasting above all
is an act of obedience and submission of Allah. This submission and
commitment is upon the love of Allah and an earnest effort to gain His
pleasure. Secondly, fasting has been used since time immemorial for this
purpose.
Nabi (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, “This month, the first part of
which brings Allah’s Mercy, the middle of which brings His forgiveness and
the last part of which brings emancipation from the fire.” (ibn Khuzaymah).
Every creation of Allah is in need of His Mercy and as a result of this
mercy one gains the forgiveness of Allah and it is through this forgiveness
one is liberated from the fire. Thus, we see in each segment of 10 days a
progression of the spiritual development of the Muslim who fasts throughout
the month of Ramadhaan.
Nabi (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, ‘Whoever stands in prayer
(Taraweeh) during Ramadhaan, with complete faith and sincere hope of
obtaining reward, his previous sins are forgiven. The word, ‘Taraweeh’
alludes to rest. The term applies to the period between every four Rakaats.
The word, ‘I’tikaaf’ refers to saying in the Musjid during the last ten days
of Ramadhaan. This seclusion demands an unreserved isolation from all
mundane activities and one seeks attachment to the Creator. The principle
aim of I’tikaaf is to seek Laylatul Qadr. May Allah Ta’ala bestow His
choicest blessings on the Ummah and invoke amongst us the ability to obtain
the maximum benefit.
Moulana Abdul-Qaadir Hoosen