Reflecting on Knowledge and Ramadan

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
Presentation by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
for ”Radiance of Ramadhan
Talk @ Darul Arqam Singapore
(Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore)
Saturday , 13 July 2013 / 4 Ramadhan 1434H
– 5.30 pm – ‘The Galaxy’ @ 32 Onan Road.
All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2013))
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2013)
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon you all
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

“Allah suffices me and the best to Protect!
Glory be to You (O Allah), of knowledge we have
none except what You have taught us, verily, You
are perfect in Knowledge, the Most Wise.”
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)
The topic I chose is indeed basic, as I amThe topic I chose is indeed basic, as I am
one who is concern with the knowledge ofone who is concern with the knowledge of
the basicthe basic FARDH ‘AINFARDH ‘AIN in Islam. So, pleasein Islam. So, please
bear with me if what I say may seembear with me if what I say may seem
obvious or repetitive to many of youobvious or repetitive to many of you
I am myself still struggling to learn, so thisI am myself still struggling to learn, so this
session is not meant to be class butsession is not meant to be class but
merely a reflection – Only to share themerely a reflection – Only to share the
little that I know as a perpetual Muslimlittle that I know as a perpetual Muslim
student involved in educating thestudent involved in educating the
UmmahUmmah, especially from the experience, especially from the experience
which Allah s.w.t. has favoured me thuswhich Allah s.w.t. has favoured me thus
far, in my learning journey as a servant, afar, in my learning journey as a servant, a
seeker and a traveller upon the path ofseeker and a traveller upon the path of
knowledge and wisdomknowledge and wisdom
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SHOULDN’T WE ALREADY KNOW …. ?SHOULDN’T WE ALREADY KNOW …. ?
Reflecting upon the topic :
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“Whoever traverse upon a path to seek in itWhoever traverse upon a path to seek in it
knowledge, Allah will make easy for himknowledge, Allah will make easy for him
the path to Paradise”the path to Paradise”
((Hadith reported by MuslimHadith reported by Muslim))
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Amongst the definitions:Amongst the definitions:
““ ... Knowledge is the arrival... Knowledge is the arrival ** ((huhussulul ) of the meaning) of the meaning
((ma’nama’na ) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul of the) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul of the
subject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s arrivalsubject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s arrival
((wuwussulul ) at the meaning of that thing or the object of) at the meaning of that thing or the object of
knowledge.”knowledge.”
By “By “meaningmeaning” (” (ma’nama’na ) is:) is: “the recognition of the proper“the recognition of the proper
place of anything in a system ...”place of anything in a system ...” Prof. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas
* or rather – ” attainment; existent ; etc.”

Whatever is outside of person –Whatever is outside of person –
to be regarded as informationto be regarded as information
(( ) – not knowledge () – not knowledge (
).).
Information may not necessarilyInformation may not necessarily
convey any meanings, but can beconvey any meanings, but can be
subjected to process orsubjected to process or
interpretation – by a human - tointerpretation – by a human - to
arriving at meaning.arriving at meaning.
Every one may have equal accessEvery one may have equal access
to a given information.to a given information.
Knowledge ( ) resides inKnowledge ( ) resides in
the person – and is also anthe person – and is also an
attribute (attribute (sifatsifat) of himself.) of himself.
Whereas Knowledge has to doWhereas Knowledge has to do
with “with “meaningsmeanings” – which may” – which may
include abstract concepts andinclude abstract concepts and
construct beyond the materialconstruct beyond the material
forms.forms.
Yet, there can be difference inYet, there can be difference in
levels and depths of knowledgelevels and depths of knowledge
( ) to a given information( ) to a given information
or subject, depending uponor subject, depending upon
who contemplates upon it.who contemplates upon it.
INFORMATION
KNOWLEDGEAll Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2013))
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

INFORMATION
KNOWLEDGE
Just as raw data input areJust as raw data input are
meant to be processed by themeant to be processed by the
computer; observations, news,computer; observations, news,
data and information etc. aredata and information etc. are
objects to be understood andobjects to be understood and
possible meanings from it to bepossible meanings from it to be
comprehended by man.comprehended by man.
THUS the Qur’an categorizeTHUS the Qur’an categorize
these (information) as: “Signs”these (information) as: “Signs”
–– aayataayat ( )( )
Al-Qur’an –Al-Qur’an – aayat Qawliyyahaayat Qawliyyah
Universe –Universe – aayat Kauniyahaayat Kauniyah
It is whenIt is when cognitioncognition of man areof man are
applied to processapplied to process these data orthese data or
information, that he may be saidinformation, that he may be said
to arrive at knowledge (i.e. whento arrive at knowledge (i.e. when
it becomes meaningful).it becomes meaningful).
THUS the Qur’anic approach forTHUS the Qur’anic approach for
man’s education enjoins him toman’s education enjoins him to
“Read” ( ) these signs to“Read” ( ) these signs to
arrive at the “arrive at the “meaningsmeanings ” – the” – the
REALITY.REALITY.
NoteNote: Arabic word “universe” and “a: Arabic word “universe” and “a
scholar; one who is learned andscholar; one who is learned and
knowledgeable” is spelt:knowledgeable” is spelt: ( )( )
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Knowledge of it has to do with “Knowledge of it has to do with “meaningsmeanings ” – which may” – which may
include abstract concepts and construct beyond the word,include abstract concepts and construct beyond the word,
material form or general notionmaterial form or general notion
For certainly there can be difference in levels and depths ofFor certainly there can be difference in levels and depths of
knowledge to a given information, depending upon whoknowledge to a given information, depending upon who
contemplates upon itcontemplates upon it
Some “Some “meaningsmeanings” may even be” may even be truetrue oror falsefalse;; vaguevague oror clearclear;;
significantsignificant oror insignificantinsignificant;; sensiblesensible oror insensible, etc.insensible, etc.
So, do we have knowledge or merely information ?
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What is a ‘ Zebra ‘ ?What is a ‘ Zebra ‘ ?
… a ‘horse‘ wearing pyjamas !
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O.K. ! Then, what is a ‘ Horse ‘ ?O.K. ! Then, what is a ‘ Horse ‘ ?
That’s easy … a ‘horse’ is a naked ‘zebra‘ !
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The hyped on the ”Hari Raya (The hyped on the ”Hari Raya (Eidul-FitrEidul-Fitr)” rather than Rama)” rather than Ramadhdhan inan in
fact were actually used as encouragement to children, appropriatelyfact were actually used as encouragement to children, appropriately
to appreciate fasting in Ramato appreciate fasting in Ramadhdhan – by dangling the reward ofan – by dangling the reward of
fasting.fasting.
But, are we still children? Shouldn’t we grow up and learn that it isBut, are we still children? Shouldn’t we grow up and learn that it is
the month of Ramathe month of Ramadhdhan that should be given center-stage?an that should be given center-stage?
Although the “Although the “Eidul-FitrEidul-Fitr” is a day of celebration, it is not to rejoice the” is a day of celebration, it is not to rejoice the
departure of Ramadeparture of Ramadhdhan which true believers grieve at its passing. It isan which true believers grieve at its passing. It is
only toonly to manifest gratitude for the successes gainedmanifest gratitude for the successes gained in Ramain Ramadhdhan.an.
IGNORANCE :
THE FOCUS ON “HARI RAYA” MORE THAN
‘RAMADHAN’
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ABUSE :
USING FASTING AS EXCUSE TO UNDER PERFORM
Amongst the saddest abuse perpetrated by Muslims is those whoAmongst the saddest abuse perpetrated by Muslims is those who
go about seeking excuses for being unproductive due to theirgo about seeking excuses for being unproductive due to their
fastingfasting..
Early Muslims never regard their fasting as a ‘disadvantage’Early Muslims never regard their fasting as a ‘disadvantage’ butbut
rather a privilege and as motivation to strive to even be morerather a privilege and as motivation to strive to even be more
productive in Ramaproductive in Ramadhdhanan
Facts of Muslims' Historical achievements in RamaFacts of Muslims' Historical achievements in Ramadhdhan : Victory inan : Victory in
Badr (17Badr (17thth
);); Fathul-MakkahFathul-Makkah (10(10thth
) ; conquest in Spain (28) ; conquest in Spain (28thth
) ;) ;
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DISTRACTIONS :
COMMERCIALIZATIONS AND OTHER AGENDA’S
Muslims have to be careful of the media and the commercializing ofMuslims have to be careful of the media and the commercializing of
RamaRamadhdhan for “an for “DunyaDunya” – although we do not doubt their incidental” – although we do not doubt their incidental
worldly benefits.worldly benefits.
Our concern is theirOur concern is their negation of the ‘soul’ of Ramanegation of the ‘soul’ of Ramadhdhanan – of its– of its
essential value; meanings ; the objective advocated by Islam. It beingessential value; meanings ; the objective advocated by Islam. It being
undermined by those with their own agenda hijacking it, therebyundermined by those with their own agenda hijacking it, thereby
distracting and diverting the Muslims attention away from striving todistracting and diverting the Muslims attention away from striving to
benefit from Allah’s generosity and bestowals inherent in this month.benefit from Allah’s generosity and bestowals inherent in this month.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

DO YOU HAVE A PRISONER MENTALITY ?
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From the word - - “ vehement action of the sun upon the earth ”
Also from - - “ heat of the stone ; burning of the intense heat of
summer; heat ;
RamaRamadhdhanan : The name given to the 9: The name given to the 9thth
month of the Arabic calendar,month of the Arabic calendar,
so called because, when they changed the names of the months from theso called because, when they changed the names of the months from the
ancient language, they named them according to the seasons in whichancient language, they named them according to the seasons in which
they occurred.they occurred.

THE TERM “RAMADHAN”
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””RamaRamadhdhanan is the (month) in which was sent down theis the (month) in which was sent down the
Qur'an as aQur'an as a guideguide (HUDA)to mankind also (BAYYINAT)(HUDA)to mankind also (BAYYINAT) clearclear
(Signs) for guidance(Signs) for guidance and (FURQAN)and (FURQAN) judgment (between rightjudgment (between right
and wrong)and wrong)””
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:185Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:185))

It is most significant that the first instance the wordIt is most significant that the first instance the word
(month of(month of RAMARAMADHDHANAN) is mentioned in the Qur’an is related to) is mentioned in the Qur’an is related to
it being the month in which this Qur’an was sent down.it being the month in which this Qur’an was sent down.
Then it proceed to assert the true import of Al-Qur’an, namely:Then it proceed to assert the true import of Al-Qur’an, namely:
[1] it is the[1] it is the HUDAHUDA (Guide) for the whole of mankind;(Guide) for the whole of mankind;
[2] its revelation from on high also contains with it the[2] its revelation from on high also contains with it the BAYYINAHBAYYINAH
(clarification; detail explanation of its Guidance); and(clarification; detail explanation of its Guidance); and
[3] one of the most important attribute of the Qur'an is that of being[3] one of the most important attribute of the Qur'an is that of being
thethe FURQONFURQON – (the criterion for differentiating truth and– (the criterion for differentiating truth and
falsehood; the right from the wrong)falsehood; the right from the wrong)

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”” So everyone of you who is present (at his home)So everyone of you who is present (at his home) duringduring
that monththat month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, orshould spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or
on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) byon a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by
days later”days later”

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”” Allah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for youAllah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for you
difficultydifficulty, and (He desires) that you should complete the, and (He desires) that you should complete the
number (of days in fasting) and that you shouldnumber (of days in fasting) and that you should exalt theexalt the
greatness of Allahgreatness of Allah for His having guided you and that youfor His having guided you and that you
may give thanks (andmay give thanks (and be gratefulbe grateful)”)”

After honouringAfter honouring RAMARAMADHDHANAN with highlighting the Qur’an, Allahwith highlighting the Qur’an, Allah
SWT then reminded Muslims about their obligation to FastSWT then reminded Muslims about their obligation to Fast
((SSAUMAUM) in this month (relating to an earlier verse). It is as the) in this month (relating to an earlier verse). It is as the
reminder of this great favour to be commemorated andreminder of this great favour to be commemorated and
continually being done annually on a global scalecontinually being done annually on a global scale
And then comes the assurance of Allah’s intended purpose for theAnd then comes the assurance of Allah’s intended purpose for the
Muslims’ daily obligatory fasting:Muslims’ daily obligatory fasting:
- Not to impose difficulty but ease;Not to impose difficulty but ease;
- The prescribed period to be completed;The prescribed period to be completed;
- So as to become people who glorify Allah with gratefulness for theSo as to become people who glorify Allah with gratefulness for the
guidance.guidance.

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
MONTH OF RAMAMONTH OF RAMADHDHANAN
MONTH OF FASTINGMONTH OF FASTING

Every Muslim knows that RamaEvery Muslim knows that Ramadhdhan represents the month thatan represents the month that
we are commanded ‘Fasting’ – a pillar of Al-Islam.we are commanded ‘Fasting’ – a pillar of Al-Islam.
Yet, we should further enquire: “Yet, we should further enquire: “why or what is the objective ofwhy or what is the objective of
this command?this command?””
Surely, there must be a higher wisdom to this practice rather thanSurely, there must be a higher wisdom to this practice rather than
simplistically assumed by some. What is the authentic reasoningsimplistically assumed by some. What is the authentic reasoning
for the command, which differentiate our teachings and practicefor the command, which differentiate our teachings and practice
from that of other faith, religion or culture.from that of other faith, religion or culture.
And merely to know the reason is not sufficient. We Muslims mustAnd merely to know the reason is not sufficient. We Muslims must
be convinced of its veracity which serves as our ‘driver’ , the goal,be convinced of its veracity which serves as our ‘driver’ , the goal,
motivating us towards the ‘desired outcome’.motivating us towards the ‘desired outcome’.

””O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you as it wasO ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you as it was
prescribed to those before you that ye may (learn ) self-prescribed to those before you that ye may (learn ) self-
restraint ( havingrestraint ( having TAQWATAQWA – i.e. state of consciousness of– i.e. state of consciousness of
Allah).―”Allah).―”

MUSLIMMUSLIM
Submission
TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM
MUNAFEEQINMUNAFEEQIN
FASIQEENFASIQEEN
MUJRIMEENMUJRIMEEN
ZOLIMEENZOLIMEEN GHOFILEENGHOFILEEN
MUSRIFEENMUSRIFEEN
MUFSIDEENMUFSIDEEN
IF NO EFFORT DONE TOWARDS STRIVING FOR HIGHER STATIONS,
A MUSLIM MAY END-UP BECOMING ....
MUTTAQEENMUTTAQEEN
ETC.
God-consciousness or Piety
LEVELS OF ATTAINMENTLEVELS OF ATTAINMENT
TOWARDS HIGHER STATE OFTOWARDS HIGHER STATE OF
TAQWATAQWA

MUSLIMMUSLIM
MU’MEENMU’MEEN
MUMUHHSEENSEEN
MUKHLISWEEN
MUTTAQEENMUTTAQEEN
Believer
Submission
Best or righteous conduct
Sincerity
God-consciousness or Piety
TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM
MAQOM AL-ISLAM
MAQOM AT-TAUBAHMAQOM AT-TAUBAH
MAQOM AL-WARA’MAQOM AL-WARA’
MAQOM AZ-ZUHUDMAQOM AZ-ZUHUD
MAQOM AL-’ARIFEENMAQOM AL-’ARIFEEN
LEVELS OF ATTAINMENTLEVELS OF ATTAINMENT
TOWARDS HIGHER STATE OFTOWARDS HIGHER STATE OF
TAQWATAQWA

If you are wearing an
overflowing robe, how
would you walk through
upon a road full of
bushes of thorns ?
# ۱
PARABLE
OF WALKING IN
THORNY
PATHWAY

It would not be a problem to walk upon this road this wide isn’t it?
2 metres
# ۲
Supposed you
are shown this
lighted path ….
PARABLE
OF
‘ACROPHOBIA’

But now knowing the reality of where
you really are, how would you be walking upon it?
2 metres
# ۲
PARABLE
OF
‘ACROPHOBIA’

““Whoever fast in Ramadhan with Faith (Whoever fast in Ramadhan with Faith (IIMANIIMAN) and) and
with (with (IHTISAABANIHTISAABAN) anticipation(of Allah’s Mercy),) anticipation(of Allah’s Mercy),
all his past sins will be forgiven.”all his past sins will be forgiven.”
((Hadith reported by BukharyHadith reported by Bukhary))

““There are many who Fast but do not gain anything forThere are many who Fast but do not gain anything for
their Fasting except hunger and thirst.”their Fasting except hunger and thirst.”
((Hadith of the Prophet s.a.a.w.Hadith of the Prophet s.a.a.w.))

““Fasting is a shieldFasting is a shield and so (he who fast) should not utter vulgarities,and so (he who fast) should not utter vulgarities,
nor obscenities and if a man swears (pick a quarrel) with him, he shouldnor obscenities and if a man swears (pick a quarrel) with him, he should
Just say (in response) : “I am Fasting”, (he repeated) twice.”Just say (in response) : “I am Fasting”, (he repeated) twice.”
((Hadith reported by Bukhary)Hadith reported by Bukhary)

““Fasting is a shieldFasting is a shield as long as the person (fasting) does not violate it.”as long as the person (fasting) does not violate it.”
(Abu Muhammad clarifies that what the Prophet s.a.a.w. meant by(Abu Muhammad clarifies that what the Prophet s.a.a.w. meant by
Violate here is “Violate here is “GhibahGhibah” – backbiting others)”” – backbiting others)”
((Hadith reported by DarimiyHadith reported by Darimiy))

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
MONTH OF ISLAM ( THE SUBMISSION )MONTH OF ISLAM ( THE SUBMISSION )

IfIf FRIDAYFRIDAY (called - literally :day of congregation) is(called - literally :day of congregation) is
claimed by Islam as its greatest day in the week, thenclaimed by Islam as its greatest day in the week, then RAMARAMADHDHANAN
should be known as the greatest of month for Islam.should be known as the greatest of month for Islam.
Without doubt, it is in this month which manifest to the wholeWithout doubt, it is in this month which manifest to the whole
mankind, many of the teachings and virtues of thismankind, many of the teachings and virtues of this DeenDeen (way of life)(way of life)
When “When “IslamIslam” means “” means “submission; obediencesubmission; obedience” – it is in this month that” – it is in this month that
the whole world can observe this phenomena of this religion in thethe whole world can observe this phenomena of this religion in the
lives of every Muslims. It is not mere claim, or a utopian ideal, butlives of every Muslims. It is not mere claim, or a utopian ideal, but
indeed a demonstrable reality of how through this “indeed a demonstrable reality of how through this “Deen-ul-IslamDeen-ul-Islam””
whole community has and can be transformed to submit and obeywhole community has and can be transformed to submit and obey
Allah and His Messenger Muhammad s.a.a.w.Allah and His Messenger Muhammad s.a.a.w.

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
MONTH OF PURIFICATIONMONTH OF PURIFICATION

Another important aspect ofAnother important aspect of RAMARAMADHDHANAN, is the manifestation and, is the manifestation and
constant exhortation towards the Muslims of the essential Islamicconstant exhortation towards the Muslims of the essential Islamic
teaching of Purity and purification –teaching of Purity and purification – TwTwAHAARAHAHAARAH ))
From purity in belief –From purity in belief – TAUTAUHHEEDEED (attesting to the Absolute Oneness(attesting to the Absolute Oneness
of God); to purity in worship –of God); to purity in worship – IKHLAIKHLASwSw (sincerity in doing good);(sincerity in doing good);
purity from sins –purity from sins – TAUBAHTAUBAH (repentance reparation) and(repentance reparation) and MAGHFIRAHMAGHFIRAH
(Allah’s Forgiveness); to purity in relationship with fellow humankind(Allah’s Forgiveness); to purity in relationship with fellow humankind
and others –and others – SALAAMSALAAM (Peace) ;(Peace) ; MAHABBAHMAHABBAH (love bond) and(love bond) and
RARAHHMAHMAH (Mercy) and(Mercy) and UUKHKHUWWAUWWAHH (Fellowship);(Fellowship); IIHHSANSAN
(compassionate and generosity); to general cleanliness and well-(compassionate and generosity); to general cleanliness and well-
being –being – NANAZZOFAHOFAH andand ISLAISLAHH,, etcetc. -. - (this list is not exhaustive)(this list is not exhaustive)

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
MONTH OF PUTTING TO TESTMONTH OF PUTTING TO TEST

It is in this month ofIt is in this month of RAMADHANRAMADHAN that Muslims are made tothat Muslims are made to
realise that they must strive to being a believer (realise that they must strive to being a believer (MU’MEENMU’MEEN) ,) ,
facing test, trial and tribulation is inevitable, nay necessary andfacing test, trial and tribulation is inevitable, nay necessary and
inevitable, for such higher virtues are meant for the deserving.inevitable, for such higher virtues are meant for the deserving.
Every Muslim has the potential to attain higher spiritual statesEvery Muslim has the potential to attain higher spiritual states
((MAQOMMAQOM). And in this month, especially in their ability to observe). And in this month, especially in their ability to observe
daily fasting and the accompanying lessons and experience, anydaily fasting and the accompanying lessons and experience, any
doubts and hesitation of achieving these virtues are eradicated.doubts and hesitation of achieving these virtues are eradicated.
Muslims who fast in accordance with the Sunnah, with knowledgeMuslims who fast in accordance with the Sunnah, with knowledge
and readiness as a test from Allah, will taste the sweetness ofand readiness as a test from Allah, will taste the sweetness of
IIMANIIMAN (Faith), and get to experience glimpses of state of(Faith), and get to experience glimpses of state of TAQWATAQWA

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
MONTH OF STANDING (IN PRAYER)MONTH OF STANDING (IN PRAYER)

One of the most important pillar of Islam, indeed isOne of the most important pillar of Islam, indeed is AS-AS-SWSWOLAHOLAH
(Specific devotional prayer). It is the essential personal(Specific devotional prayer). It is the essential personal
communion with Allah which must be inculcated.communion with Allah which must be inculcated.
In the month ofIn the month of RAMARAMADHDHANAN, apart from the obligatory daily, apart from the obligatory daily
prayer, Muslims strive to do much more with night prayersprayer, Muslims strive to do much more with night prayers
((TARAWEEH, TAHAJJUD, WITRTARAWEEH, TAHAJJUD, WITR;) as well as spending time in retreat;) as well as spending time in retreat
((I’TIKAFI’TIKAF).).
In no other month except INIn no other month except IN RAMARAMADHDHANAN do we see Muslims as ado we see Muslims as a
community, compete in doing this. It is indeed true that the wholecommunity, compete in doing this. It is indeed true that the whole
community, all over the world are being guided by Divine help – acommunity, all over the world are being guided by Divine help – a
demonstration of a faithful community worshipful to the One Goddemonstration of a faithful community worshipful to the One God

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
( THE MONTH IN WHICH )( THE MONTH IN WHICH )
THE QUR’A N WAS SENT DOWNTHE QUR’A N WAS SENT DOWN

The jewel, from which the radiance and honour whichThe jewel, from which the radiance and honour which RAMARAMADHDHANAN
was conferred because of it, without doubt indeed is thewas conferred because of it, without doubt indeed is the QUR’ANQUR’AN..
Thus it is also referred to asThus it is also referred to as SHAHRUL-QUR’ANSHAHRUL-QUR’AN ––
(the month of the Qur’an).(the month of the Qur’an).
Indeed, it is especially inIndeed, it is especially in RAMARAMADHDHANAN that Muslims all over thethat Muslims all over the
whole world becomes most attached throughout the whole monthwhole world becomes most attached throughout the whole month
with the Qur’an – with its recitation; its memorization; appreciationwith the Qur’an – with its recitation; its memorization; appreciation
of its teachings (of its teachings (TA’LEEMTA’LEEM) and commentaries () and commentaries (TAFSEERTAFSEER); its reciters); its reciters
((MUQRI’MUQRI’) and memorizers () and memorizers (HUFFAZHUFFAZ); etc.); etc.
Symbolically to me, Fasting and Al-Qur’an, represent “Symbolically to me, Fasting and Al-Qur’an, represent “DetachmentDetachment””
from other (especially our desires) towards “from other (especially our desires) towards “AttachmentAttachment” to our” to our
Creator; “Creator; “emptying”emptying” of the self and “of the self and “filling itfilling it ” with Divine Grace.” with Divine Grace.

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
NOBLE (GENEROUS)NOBLE (GENEROUS)
RAMARAMADHDHANAN

Allah (Azzawajall) wants us mankind to know of His Generosity, Allah (Azzawajall) wants us mankind to know of His Generosity,
Compassion and Mercy. In the first verses revealed Allah stated:Compassion and Mercy. In the first verses revealed Allah stated:
““Recite in the name of your Lord who createdRecite in the name of your Lord who created
Created man from a clinging substance.Created man from a clinging substance.
Recite, andRecite, and your Lord is the most Generous (Honourableyour Lord is the most Generous (Honourable)-)-
Who taught by the pen - Taught man that which he knew not. ”Who taught by the pen - Taught man that which he knew not. ”
((Qur’an: ‘Alaq: 96: 1-5Qur’an: ‘Alaq: 96: 1-5))

One of Allah’s beautiful name is One of Allah’s beautiful name is AL-KAREEMAL-KAREEM - from the - from the
word word K-R-MK-R-M- ( ) meaning “- ( ) meaning “the Honourable, the Noble; thethe Honourable, the Noble; the
Generous; the Most Bounteous; the Magnanimous; the Kind; etc.Generous; the Most Bounteous; the Magnanimous; the Kind; etc.
And in referring to And in referring to RAMARAMADHDHANAN, Muslims attached (or rather allude , Muslims attached (or rather allude
to Allah’s attribute in) this special name by saying as greeting –to Allah’s attribute in) this special name by saying as greeting –
Indeed Allah is the most Gracious and Compassionate, Who Indeed Allah is the most Gracious and Compassionate, Who
constantly bestow favours even among the undeserving.constantly bestow favours even among the undeserving.
And especially for Muslims, in the month of RamaAnd especially for Muslims, in the month of Ramadhdhan – the month an – the month
in which the Qur’an was revealed – we are told that His attribute of in which the Qur’an was revealed – we are told that His attribute of
Generosity and Bestowal is greatly and abundantly manifested and Generosity and Bestowal is greatly and abundantly manifested and
granted. So do not become heedless of this fact and strive to benefitgranted. So do not become heedless of this fact and strive to benefit

““Verily your Lord said: ‘The reward for every good deed will be multipliedVerily your Lord said: ‘The reward for every good deed will be multiplied
by ten up to seven hundred times, except for Fasting – for Fasting is forby ten up to seven hundred times, except for Fasting – for Fasting is for
My sake and I will reward (to multiples of my choosing) accordingly.”My sake and I will reward (to multiples of my choosing) accordingly.”
((Hadith of the Prophet s.a.a.w.Hadith of the Prophet s.a.a.w.))

And one of the most exceptional favour (bestowal) promised by And one of the most exceptional favour (bestowal) promised by
Allah, which is placed in everyAllah, which is placed in every RAMARAMADHDHANAN, never before given to , never before given to
any nation (any nation (UMMAHUMMAH) except the nation of Muhammad s.a.a.w. is ) except the nation of Muhammad s.a.a.w. is
the “Night of Power (Decree) – the “Night of Power (Decree) – LAY-LA-TUL-QADRLAY-LA-TUL-QADR : :

“Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree.
And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.
The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their
Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.”
((Qur’an: al-Qadr’ : 97: 1-5Qur’an: al-Qadr’ : 97: 1-5))
And one of the most exceptional favour (bestowal) promised by And one of the most exceptional favour (bestowal) promised by
Allah, which is placed in everyAllah, which is placed in every RAMARAMADHDHANAN, never before given to , never before given to
any nation (any nation (UMMAHUMMAH) except the nation of Muhammad s.a.a.w. is ) except the nation of Muhammad s.a.a.w. is
the “Night of Power (Decree) – the “Night of Power (Decree) – LAY-LA-TUL-QADRLAY-LA-TUL-QADR : :

TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
SO, DO NOT BETRAY THE TRUST, NOR UNDERMINE THISSO, DO NOT BETRAY THE TRUST, NOR UNDERMINE THIS
IMPORTANT LEGACY OF OUR PROPHET S.A.A.W.IMPORTANT LEGACY OF OUR PROPHET S.A.A.W.
WHICH WE AS MUSLIMS ARE MEANT TO CARRY AND FULFILLWHICH WE AS MUSLIMS ARE MEANT TO CARRY AND FULFILL
IMPORTANT REMINDER
IMPORTANT REMINDER

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
““And thus have We willed you to be a community of theAnd thus have We willed you to be a community of the
middle way (middle way (UMMATAN WASOTANUMMATAN WASOTAN) [i.e. justly balanced],) [i.e. justly balanced],
so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to theso that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the
truth before all mankind (truth before all mankind (SHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAASSHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAAS) ,) ,
and the Messenger as a witness over you.“and the Messenger as a witness over you.“
((Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143))

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
““And whenAnd when Allah guides a single person (to Islam),Allah guides a single person (to Islam),
through youthrough you (with your sincere effort), (the reward) for(with your sincere effort), (the reward) for
you is better than (if you are given) the whole world andyou is better than (if you are given) the whole world and
whatever it contains.”whatever it contains.”
((Hadith of the ProphetHadith of the Prophet ))

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
““Among theAmong the believers are men who have [always] beenbelievers are men who have [always] been
true to what they have vowed before Allahtrue to what they have vowed before Allah: Of them: Of them
some have fulfilled their obligations (with their lives),some have fulfilled their obligations (with their lives),
and some of them are still waiting (for its fulfillment)and some of them are still waiting (for its fulfillment)
without having changed [their resolve] in the least.”without having changed [their resolve] in the least.”
((Qur’an: al-Ahzab: 33: 23Qur’an: al-Ahzab: 33: 23))

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
May Allah grant us all, and all our beloved family and May Allah grant us all, and all our beloved family and
companions, the success (companions, the success (TAUFIQTAUFIQ) and the Guidance ) and the Guidance
((HIDAAYAHIDAAYA) to attain to His Acceptance, Forgiveness and ) to attain to His Acceptance, Forgiveness and
Mercy (Mercy (RAHMAHRAHMAH) and gain His Pleasure () and gain His Pleasure (MARDHA-TILLAHMARDHA-TILLAH).).

65
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http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/ http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/
http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/ http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/
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