By Alhaji MB Jalloh
As Ramadan comes to an end, we must ensure that its spiritual essence remains with us throughout the year.
The holy month of Ramadan is a unique opportunity to draw closer to Allah Almighty, both physically and mentally. It’s essential that we maintain this closeness beyond Ramadan.
One of the most significant benefits of fasting is the cultivation of kindness and compassion towards others. As we strive to strengthen our bodies and minds during Ramadan, let’s extend this spirit of devotion and kindness throughout the year.
In a Hadith narrated by Sufyan ibn Abdallah (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of steadfastness in obeying Allah. This entails performing obligatory acts, avoiding prohibited ones, and following the right path, which is Islam.
As Muslims, we must recognize that our devotion to Allah shouldn’t be limited to Ramadan. The Allah we served during Ramadan is the same Allah who deserves our worship and obedience throughout the year. Allah Almighty is the Lord of all twelve months, and He is the All-Knowing, All-Hearing, and All-Seeing.
While Ramadan is a month of multiplied rewards, good deeds are highly valued by Allah throughout the year. It’s said that the worst people are those who only acknowledge Allah in Ramadan, neglecting their worship and obedience during the remaining months.
The true test of a successful Ramadan is the ability to maintain steadfastness in worship and good deeds beyond the holy month. Our actions and devotion should continue throughout the year, not come to an end with the conclusion of Ramadan.
As Allah Almighty states in Chapter 15, verse 99, of the Holy Qur’an: “And serve thy Lord until there come unto thee the Hour that is certain (death).”
When the fasting of Ramadan comes to an end, then indeed the voluntary fast is recommended throughout the entire year. When standing in prayer at night in Ramadan comes to an end, then indeed the entire year is a time for performing the night prayer. And if Zakat Al-Fitr comes to an end, then there is still the Zakat that is still obligatory as well as the voluntary charity that lasts the whole year. This goes the same for reciting the Qur’an and pondering over its meanings, as well as every other good deed that was sought, for these can be performed at all times. Therefore, the zeal and enthusiasm that were felt throughout Ramadan must continue through the whole year.
As we bid farewell to Ramadan, let’s commit to continuing our good deeds, praying at the correct times, giving charity, and being more patient and kind towards one another. The Lord of Ramadan is the Lord of all months, and our devotion to Him should know no bounds.
