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Keeping the spirit of Ramadan alive throughout the year
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Full moon - fasting the white nights of the month
Ramadan is over, now what? Many young Muslims asked or implied this question during the 'Eid celebrations around the Bay Area. Silicon Valley mosques saw larger numbers attending the worship services and community activities during Ramadan. A decent size of the demographics were the youth. With their passion and enthusiasm, teenagers and young adults were eager to complete a full month of fasting and increase their spiritual knowledge. There is no doubt that on a universal level, Muslims around the globe feel an increase of spirituality during Ramadan. Now the question remains, how can we keep the spirit of Ramadan alive?
Here are some practical and easy ways to continue that spiritual growth we felt. Keeping in mind that Ramadan was not just a month of fasting, but also a month that emphasized charity, forbearance and compassion. Ramadan allowed us to refine our internal and external behavior.
1. The six days of fasting in Shawal (the month following Ramadan). The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of God be upon him) recommended that we perform this voluntary fast. That statement should be enough motivation with just his blessed recommendation. He also mentioned that those who perform this voluntary fast would receive the reward of fasting all the time. By completing the six days of fasting in Shawal, we would receive a reward of fasting for one year. This is clarified by the scholars in the following manner: in the month of Ramadan, spiritual rewards are multiplied by ten. The month of Ramadan equals to ten months. The six days of fasting in Shawal multiplied by ten equals to sixty days or 2 months. This brings a total of 12 months. By doing the fast of Ramadan and followed by the six days of fasting in Shawal every year, we will receive reward of fasting all the time, God willing. The scholars also recommended that the six days of fasting be completed consecutively and to start the day after 'Eid il Fitr. However, we can fast any time during Shawal.
2. Perform the voluntary weekly and monthly fasts. It is recommended to fast on Mondays and Thursdays and during the middle of the month on the 13th, 14th and 15th of the month. These are known as the "white nights" as the full moon shines brightly during these nights. By performing these fasts regularly, when Ramadan is upon us, we should feel ease as we prepare for the obligatory fast.
3. Continue to give charity on a monthly basis. You can dedicate a portion of your funds to one or two charities (or non-profit organizations) or you can diversify your charity by seeking out different organizations. By dedicating your funds, you can set up a monthly routine to assist that organization. With diversity, you can spread your assistance across a large spectrum. No amount is too small. Having a sincere intention can magnify your dollar value on a spiritual level.
4. Be cognizant of the plight of those less fortunate than us. We felt the hunger pangs that others feel on a daily basis. We felt the dryness in our throat like those who are parched every hour of their lives. We should not forget those who are suffering and do our best to assist them. Rahima Foundation is an organization that feeds the local needy population. Hidaya Foundation assists those in need around the globe. Both of these charities are based in the South Bay in Santa Clara.
5. Maintain and increase our levels of forbearance. During Ramadan, we reminded ourselves to refrain from arguments, debates and antagonizing others. We also resisted the urges of retaliation. It was a constant reminder that anger and fasting do not mix. We should have the resolve to remain patient and inculcate tolerance in our daily practices throughout the year.
Ramadan shouldn't be an on/off switch. It is one of the most sacred months of the year. Spiritual levels are elevated and acts of good deeds are increased. We should strive to maintain the benevolence of Ramadan throughout the year. Let's keep the switch ON.
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