Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is a time to fast for the sake of God, offer more prayers, ask for forgiveness for the sins of the past and for guidance in the future. More than anything, fasting is meant to teach people patience and humility.
The very notion behind scripting the principles for common man to lead a simple life in Koran was to bring about a visible change in the lifestyle of the people, especially during the holy month. It is the month of repentance. Believers ask for forgiveness and receive blessings from the almighty and the holy month gives us opportunity to draw closer to Allah and receive his blessings.
During these days of fasting, prayers and worship, as you reflect and remember your dependence on God, I hope this season of Ramzan also provides an occasion for each of you to strengthen family and community ties and share God's gifts with those in need.
On a deeper level, the meaning of fasting during the month goes beyond just physical deprivation and it is the manifestation of love for the divine by spreading goodness to other beings. One gets the opportunity to understand the pangs of hunger and thirst suffered by the poor and one must accordingly give generously out of one’s wealth.
In the present materialistic world, there are possibilities to lose the real essence of fasting by making it more of an ornate social ritual or an excuse for indulgence or a means to flaunt one’s wealth.
But when people start understanding the real meaning of all these rituals, it automatically makes them realise what Allah through his words were trying to communicate to its people.
(As told to Pooja P.)
