THE SPIRIT OF RAMAZAN — Patience and Self-Control

spiritual capability of a man's heart and when this capability increases, the dua which ensues is genuine, heartfelt and more precious. Real fasting is that which induces real dua. The Essence of Ramazan According to Islam, man has been brought into this world so that he may be put to the test. He has been given freedom of will so that he may make use of this freedom in following the commandments of God willingly. To pass the test of life, man has to restrict the use of this freedom: he has to promote all that is good and try to eradicate all that is bad. Self-control is needed for this and fasting is a form of annual training to gain this self-control. One has to have patience for this self-controlled life. Fasting inculcates in the individual this spirit of patience. On this ground, the month of fasting has been termed in a Hadith as the month of patience. The most important thing required to lead an Islamic life in this world is patience. For this very reason it was declared in the Quran: Those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure. THE QURAN 39: 10 The same glad news of immeasurable reward for patience is also given in a Hadith. Abu Hurairah quoted the Prophet as having said "The good deeds of a person will receive tenfold to seven-hundredfold reward. But [God, the exalted has said] fasting is [observed] for Me and I will give reward [without measure] for it." The Month of Contemplation During Ramazan a dramatic change comes over the Islamic community. Believers are seen sitting inside mosques, reciting the Quran, immersed in prayer (dua) and the remembrance of God. They become more detached and contemplative. Their boisterous and frivolous urges are curbed. Man is a social being: he is either encouraged or depressed by his surroundings. This sea change in communal life during Ramazan therefore affects the individual believer. He is encouraged by the change in his brethren and inclines more and more towards God. Believers turn away from common vices and peace and tranquillity reign in all the neighbourhoods and market places.