Shah Abdul Hannan
Social Aspects of Ramadan
by Shah Abdul Hannan
Fasting is a matchless and unique institution of Islam. Through it, Islam has planted an ever growing tree of infinite virtue. In this short article, I will discuss the social aspects of Islam. However, in the beginning let me mention the spiritual meaning of fasting which teaches sincere love for Allah (through his obedience), equips human being with hope and optimism, imbues us genuine dedication and closeness to Allah (because fasting is done only for Allah's sake), cultivates in man a vigilant and sound conscience, it teaches man with patience. (Ref.: Islam In Focus: Hammudah Abdul Ati: The Fasting).
In Islam, most Ibadah have social aspects, fasting is no exception. Among the social aspects of fasting, one is that it helps in understanding the pains and suffering of the poor and the deprived. We know from our own fasting for 12-18 hours (in most areas of the world) the difficulties of those who go without food. This should ideally create a mindset to remove poverty from the world. Islam indeed removed poverty from Muslim world through Zakat and its economic teachings in its early phase which we later forgot for various reasons. I believe this consciousness should be brought back. Removal of poverty should be one of the prime concerns of the Muslims.
Another aspect of Ramadan is sharing of Iftar with others in our houses and various functions. This creates intense love and affection among members of the community.
Taraweeh which is mostly offered in Jamma'h or congregation in Masjids (Mosques) is also a collective program of the Muslims. We listen to the Qur'an together in Mosjid, we meet each other there and our social interaction (particularly in smaller communities) increases.
Another aspect of Ramadan is that in this month, more charity is given. Prophet (SM) used to give more charity in this month and encouraged others. This takes care of the poor and the needy. This has spiritual and social meaning.
In Suhr (late night eating) we wake up each other. We ring up one another. In many countries, small bands go round to wake-up people. All these increase social interaction and also merry-making.
Ramadan makes the societies purer because, most people desist from wrong acts in this month. If Muslims follow this in other times truly, society would be better place to live. The leaders of Islam should instill in Muslims the spirit of Ramadan.
Ramadan is a special month for children. In this month, they compete with each other to fast and even if they do not complete the fast, they achieve immense pleasure.
Ramadan is a month of blessing, social and spiritual. We only pray that the spirit of Ramadan deepens in us and in our children.
