Ramadan 2021: Ustaz Sadiq Ahmad Writes on the Significance of Ramadan

The month of Ramadan is the month in which Muslims all over the world abstain from eating, drinking and sexual pleasure from dawn to dusk.

It is a religious duty enjoined on every Muslim adult to observe this period to atone for their sins.

The injunction to observe this strong pillar of Islam is contained in Qur’an chapter two, verse one hundred and eighty-three where it is prescribed to all Muslim Faithfuls to fast for self restraint.

It is therefore, expected that as the Ramadan fast begins the objective of instilling the fear of Allah into their consciousness should be at the back of their minds.

This is more so that the Country is facing a lot of challenges in the areas of security, banditry, kidnapping, among others in some parts of the Country which does not augur well for our corporate existence as a nation.

The aggrieved should in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan sheath their swords and embrace peace so that together we can build a Nigeria of our dream.

It is also expected of Muslims to engage in charity as it is a most rewarding act of worship.

Also important to note is that it is a period of Universal peace, irrespective of creed.

Muslims must therefore jettison vices before, during and after the Ramadan period as this will no doubt lead to self purification and attainment of righteousness for life.

Since the Qur’an which is the guide for Islamic religion was revealed during the Ramadan, it is expedient for faithfuls to be a shining example by imbibing the virtues of humility.

Indeed, it is expected that Muslims should increase monumentally the acts that would lead to rewards from Allah especially giving out gifts, contributing to Allah inspired projects and other charitable deeds.

Muslims are also expected to seek wide knowledge on the knity gritty of fasting such as what spoils fasting, what reduces blessings and benefits, good works in Ramadan, places and talks to avoid, among others.

Among other impacts, fasting essentially give Muslims firsthand experience of the feelings of the poor and destitute whose feeding, care and general welfare have been prescribed by Allah as a duty for all Muslim faithful.

Consequently, fasting in this month of Ramadan serves as a physical as well as spiritual aid to facilitate the appreciation of Islamic values, appreciating such values and complying with Muslim teachings such as sympathy towards fellow beings, respect for life and consideration for others.

Furthermore, they must exercise patience, have a sense of forgiveness and show general kindness to fellow human and all other creatures.

Above all, they must remember the traditions of prophet Muhammad, the messenger who propelled Islam to stardom, for this is the only way the divine purpose of fasting can be achieved.

We must resolve now to ensure a holy month devoid of bloodshed, kidnappings, banditry, robbery, bribery and corruption, rancour and acrimony, and other vices in Nigeria.

Ustaz Sadiq Ahmad, writes from Lokoja, Kogi State Capital.