Ramadan Kareem

I had actually decided not to write anything during Ramadan because I thought it would be best to utilize all free time in prayers or dhikr. But then, I happened to come across a few people with misunderstandings about Ramadan. So I thought it better to set things right. If reading this helps anyone to correct their misconceptions about Ramadan, then I will be really happy.

First of all, Ramadan is NOT about food. Certain people seem to think that the amount of food that is avoided from dawn to dusk has to be compensated for by eating more than necessary during the remaining time. Let me tell you, Ramadan is NOT about food. Allah Subhanahu wa tha’ala asked Muslims to observe Sowm or fasting during Ramadan so that they will understand the woes of those deprived of food; so that they will spend more time in Ibadat or worshipping Allah; so that they will try to purify their selves by reflecting on their actions- in short so that they will do others, and themselves, more good than they do at other times.

The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) has said, “Whoever does not abandon false speech and acting falsely, then Allah has no need of his abandoning food and drink.” (Sahih al-Bukhari (1903))

Second, Ramadan is the month when The Holy Qur’an was sent down to the Prophet P.B.U.H. So Muslims should try to spend more time with the Qur’an- not just reciting but also understanding its message and living accordingly. Sadly, The Holy Qur’an is the only book on earth that is read widely by people who do NOT understand it. It is true that the Prophet P.B.U.H has said that reading every single letter in the Qur’an has its reward. But that does not mean that we can forget the objective with which the Qur’an was sent. The Qur’an is primarily a guide for life. It tells us how we should live if we want to be in Allah’s good books. Not just how we should worship, but how we should LIVE. 
“This is a Book We have sent down to you so that you can bring mankind from the darkness to the light, by the permission of their Lord, to the Path of the Almighty, the Praiseworthy..” (Surah Ibrahim, 1)
So dear sisters and brothers in Islam, utilize this Ramadan to learn The Holy Qur’an- by 'learn', I mean not learning the Suras by heart, but rather learning the meaning of the verses. Start with the help of a teacher or scholar in the neighbourhood who has the RIGHT knowledge in The Qur’an and Arabic language in general. If that is not possible, then refer to a Tafseer. If you have none at home and can’t buy one, then try online. Qur’an translations are available for free on many sites like Qur'an Explorer, Harun Yahya, ahadees, etc. Also try to learn a little of Arabic language, just the basics. It will also help you a lot in understanding the Qur’an. Don’t think that you can’t do it. At least try your best. Don’t wait until it is too late. You will have to answer to Allah when He asks you why you never even TRIED to understand His Holy Book. So try to learn The Qur’an along with its meaning and Tajveed. May Allah bless us all with success in all our good endeavors, and may He include us among those blessed to be united with His Prophets in Heaven.