A COMPARISON

A COMPARISON For Introspection R AMAZAN—the month of fasting, is a special and blessed month for Muslims. It is a month of restraint and worship; of caring and thanksgiving; of repentance and piety. The multitude of benefits of this month inspired the Prophet to exclaim: “Welcome to the one who purifies!” It is a month of spiritual activism when believers endeavour to awaken their spirituality. It is a scheme to improve human beings; to weaken man’s dependence on material things and strengthen his spiritual resolve, so that he may enter the higher realms of piety. The month which encourages all to ask for higher things from God; to ask for His forgiveness; for His blessings and for success in the Hereafter. Ramazan is also the month of patience. One has to have patience to live a life of restraint and be self-controlled. The most important thing required to lead an Islamic life in this world is patience. Unlike other months this month provides more time and a congenial atmosphere to help the believer to contemplate on the meaning of the Quran. Therefore it is also known as the month of contemplation. Believers turn away from many activities and spend time in peace and tranquillity which creates an environment for moral rectification. The month of Ramazan serves as a training course in humility. Humility refers to fear of God which means realization of a person’s helplessness vis-a-vis God’s greatness. This ensures the spiritual growth of a person thereby cleansing him of feelings of pride and ego which lead to his being distanced from God. The above aspects of the month of fasting were fully observed by the Prophet and his Companions. Today, if we compare the culture followed in society during the month of Ramazan what do we see? One cannot deny that there are individuals who observe this worship in full earnestness in its spirit. However, the general tendency is more towards lavish food at Iftar and Sehri time. Spending more time in shopping centres, purchasing material gifts for others and for Ramazan is the month of patience. One has to have patience to live a life of restraint and be self-controlled. The most important thing required to lead an Islamic life in this world is patience.