Ramadan: A time of generosity, unity and spiritual growth
He said this period encourages Muslims to reflect on the teachings of Islam and actively seek self-improvement.
DANIAL HAKIM
RAMADAN is a month of immense generosity, spiritual enrichment and community bonding as it is a time when hearts soften, hands extend in charity and Muslims draw closer to Allah through acts of worship and self-improvement.
Islamic Chaplain at Curtin University, Australia Shaykh Yahya Ibrahim said the Prophet’s companions (Sahabah) would distribute their zakah (obligatory charity) two months in advance to ensure that those in need received their aid in time for the holy month.
"The reason for this was that it took time for their charitable donations to reach their intended destinations. Unlike today, where transactions are instantaneous, they had to plan carefully.
"For example, they needed to consider how long it would take for a camel load of dates to travel to Bahrain or how long it would take for goods to arrive in Yemen, sometimes up to six or eight weeks for the journey," he said.
Yahya who is also an imam at Al-Ameen College, Australia said this during the "Where Faith Meets Wealth" educational talk organised by CIMB Bank Berhad and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad, last week.
During the talk, Yahya also took the opportunity to shed light on the barakah (blessings) of togetherness that is experienced during the month of Ramadan.
He noted that one of the unique blessings of Ramadan is the sense of unity and togetherness it fosters.
"No one wakes up for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) alone. Families and communities come together, prepare meals for one another and help each other wake up for the pre-dawn meal.
"This togetherness is one of the key blessings of Ramadan," he added.
The shared experiences of fasting, breaking fast and performing tarawih prayers, he said reinforce the bonds between family members, friends and the wider Muslim community.
He said it is a time when relationships are strengthened and a sense of belonging flourishes among people.
He said reading, listening to and enjoying the Quran also provides an opportunity to deepen one's understanding and focus on self-improvement during the holy month.
Whether through attending religious talks, increasing acts of worship, or engaging in charitable activities, he saod Ramadan provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal and personal growth via the teachings shared through the Quran.
He also drew a parallel between the holy month and the story of Prophet Yusuf, highlighting how, despite being wronged by his brothers, they ultimately found redemption through their hardships.
"Had they not wronged Yusuf, they would not have had the opportunity to repent and return to Allah," Yahya said.
He added that life’s struggles and challenges often serve as a path towards spiritual growth and seeking Allah’s mercy.
He described Ramadan as a time for reflection, repentance and returning to Allah as well as a chance to recognise own shortcomings, seek forgiveness and renew commitment to faith.
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