ramadhan spectacle divine[slideshare] b

م�ض�ان� ر�RAMADHAN: RAMADHAN:

“SPECTACLE OF THE “SPECTACLE OF THE DIVINE”DIVINE”

By: Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj IsmailSat, 12 September 2009, 22 Ramadhan 1430 A.H.

@ 5.30pm OrganiserDarul Arqam (Muslim Converts Ascn. Singapore)

1AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009

MY REVISED TOPIC

MY REVISED TOPIC

REFLECTION:• Those who may not be aware should be guided to Those who may not be aware should be guided to

see, and the meanings highlighted and explained to see, and the meanings highlighted and explained to them, so that they may ponder and to consider – as them, so that they may ponder and to consider – as to the origin of these spectacular signs, which point to the origin of these spectacular signs, which point towards towards the Divinethe Divine..

• There are many such spectacles, or manifestations There are many such spectacles, or manifestations or Symbols (or Symbols (Shi’ar – “min sha’aa-iril-laah”Shi’ar – “min sha’aa-iril-laah”) – which ) – which are amongst signs of the Divine nature or origin of are amongst signs of the Divine nature or origin of this Religion of Islam (this Religion of Islam (Ad-Deenul-IslamAd-Deenul-Islam).).

• And amongst these one can find in abundance, is in And amongst these one can find in abundance, is in this noble and blessed month of “this noble and blessed month of “RamadhanRamadhan”.”.


FIRST DIVINE FIRST DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

““... one sign of Truth in a ... one sign of Truth in a DivineDivine teaching teaching is in its remaining ever unchanging and is in its remaining ever unchanging and has universal appeal... “has universal appeal... “


CONSIDER:1. “DIVINE GUIDANCE -UNCHANGING

TEACHING & PRACTICE”• Amongst the sign of a religion with Amongst the sign of a religion with DivineDivine guidance guidance

is when its teachings are able to remain unchanging is when its teachings are able to remain unchanging as it was originally instituted and are still being as it was originally instituted and are still being adhered to, in spite of changing times and adhered to, in spite of changing times and circumstance.circumstance.

• For Islam, For Islam, RamadhanRamadhan highlights one of these – i.e. highlights one of these – i.e. FASTINGFASTING, in fact it was meant to re-affirm and re-, in fact it was meant to re-affirm and re-establish the practices of earlier Prophets too.establish the practices of earlier Prophets too.



TEACHING & PRACTICE”• Thus, Muslims are told:Thus, Muslims are told:

””O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you as it as it

was prescribed to those before you was prescribed to those before you that ye may that ye may (learn (learn TAQWATAQWA and) self-restraint.―” and) self-restraint.―”

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:183Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:183))



TEACHING & PRACTICE”• This phenomena of whole community (not mere This phenomena of whole community (not mere

individuals), observing (what to modern men) a individuals), observing (what to modern men) a ‘harsh’ life-style of ‘starving’ amidst abundance of ‘harsh’ life-style of ‘starving’ amidst abundance of food – is rather a perplexing spectacle. “food – is rather a perplexing spectacle. “It’s It’s amazing! But why do they do it?amazing! But why do they do it?” is a common ” is a common remark and query.remark and query.

• Muslims do it not for dieting, nor for health nor for Muslims do it not for dieting, nor for health nor for any man-made reason. The unanimous reply when any man-made reason. The unanimous reply when asked would be that it is but “asked would be that it is but “a Divine commanda Divine command.” .”



TEACHING & PRACTICE”• Despite secular anthropologist’s contention that Despite secular anthropologist’s contention that

all religion are man-made – Muslims would all religion are man-made – Muslims would adamantly reject this preposterous suggestion adamantly reject this preposterous suggestion regarding regarding Al-IslamAl-Islam – in the most effective and – in the most effective and practical way by becoming ever more religious.practical way by becoming ever more religious.

• Observers are indeed baffled at this phenomena, Observers are indeed baffled at this phenomena, in spite of negative media reports and in spite of negative media reports and IslamaphobiaIslamaphobia raging globally, more so after “911”. raging globally, more so after “911”.



TEACHING & PRACTICE”• For Muslims, this in fact has everything to do with For Muslims, this in fact has everything to do with

DivineDivine intervention. Allah s.w.t. asserts: intervention. Allah s.w.t. asserts:

“Fain would they extinguish Allah's light with Fain would they extinguish Allah's light with their mouths but Allah will not allow but their mouths but Allah will not allow but that His light should be perfected, even that His light should be perfected, even though the unbelievers may detest (it).” though the unbelievers may detest (it).”

((Qur’an: Taubah: 9:32Qur’an: Taubah: 9:32))



TEACHING & PRACTICE”• For Muslims, this in fact has everything to do with For Muslims, this in fact has everything to do with

DivineDivine intervention. Allah s.w.t. asserts: intervention. Allah s.w.t. asserts:

“It is He (Allah) who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad) with Guidance and the Religion of Truth (Al-Islam), to proclaim it over all religion: and enough is Allah for a Witness.”

(Qur’an: Fath: 48:28)9

AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009

““... only a ... only a DivineDivine force is capable of force is capable of mobilizing the faithful hearts ... “mobilizing the faithful hearts ... “


SECOND DIVINE SECOND DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

CONSIDER:

2. “ANNUAL GLOBAL DIVINE CAMPAIGN OF SELF-RESTRAIN”

• Mankind has never been able to promote a Mankind has never been able to promote a campaign of global magnitude prior to the campaign of global magnitude prior to the availability of communication technology. availability of communication technology.

• Yet, Yet, RamadhanRamadhan for Muslims, everywhere even in for Muslims, everywhere even in remote places, marks the time for a one-month remote places, marks the time for a one-month long campaign of daily fasting, of increase charity, long campaign of daily fasting, of increase charity, of upgrading devotions, of self-restrain, etc. And it of upgrading devotions, of self-restrain, etc. And it would be ushered, in synchrony, without fail as it would be ushered, in synchrony, without fail as it has been observed since over 1400 years ago. And, has been observed since over 1400 years ago. And, without the advantage of modern technology.without the advantage of modern technology.


CONSIDER:

2. “ANNUAL GLOBAL DIVINE CAMPAIGN OF SELF-RESTRAIN”

• What manner of organizing is capable of such feat? What manner of organizing is capable of such feat? When people marvel at the ability for organizing When people marvel at the ability for organizing campaign, spending vast sums of money and campaign, spending vast sums of money and resource to promote, such as “resource to promote, such as “to save Gaiato save Gaia”, “”, “World World Aids dayAids day” etc. but with minimal success.” etc. but with minimal success.

• Yet when Yet when RamadhanRamadhan comes, the observance and comes, the observance and support; the righteous acts which it promotes; support; the righteous acts which it promotes; never cease to fail - yet without the need for fanfare never cease to fail - yet without the need for fanfare and costly campaigning – only relying upon the and costly campaigning – only relying upon the faithful Muslims’ attachment to faithful Muslims’ attachment to the Divinethe Divine..


CONSIDER:2. “ANNUAL GLOBAL DIVINE CAMPAIGN

OF SELF-RESTRAIN”• And when any campaign ultimately would highlight And when any campaign ultimately would highlight

its organizer, thus forits organizer, thus for RamadhanRamadhan it all points to the it all points to the DivineDivine,, AllahAllah – there is no other divinity save – there is no other divinity save AllahAllah Who alone is god. And those who believe in Him Who alone is god. And those who believe in Him would manifest unity in purpose, brotherhood and would manifest unity in purpose, brotherhood and worship / servitude. And those who acknowledge worship / servitude. And those who acknowledge Him would strive towards being conscious of His Him would strive towards being conscious of His Presence, by restraining their desire and passion- Presence, by restraining their desire and passion- except to submit fully to except to submit fully to His Divine Will His Divine Will (in Islam). (in Islam). This would be the unwritten slogan for other nations This would be the unwritten slogan for other nations to see in this month of “to see in this month of “RamadhanRamadhan””


CONSIDER:2. “ANNUAL GLOBAL DIVINE CAMPAIGN

OF SELF-RESTRAIN”• And the Muslims are And the Muslims are DivinelyDivinely inspired and guided inspired and guided

with:with:

“ “And be ye not like those who forgot Allah; and He And be ye not like those who forgot Allah; and He made them forget their own souls! such are the made them forget their own souls! such are the rebellious transgressors! Not equal are the rebellious transgressors! Not equal are the Companions of the Fire and the Companions of the Companions of the Fire and the Companions of the Garden: it is the Companions of the Garden, that will Garden: it is the Companions of the Garden, that will achieve Felicity.” achieve Felicity.”

((Qur’an: Hashr: 49: 19-20Qur’an: Hashr: 49: 19-20))14


THIRD DIVINE THIRD DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

“ “ ... Muslims are still the most ... Muslims are still the most worshipful and faithful community in worshipful and faithful community in our time whereas doubts of the our time whereas doubts of the Divine Divine infect hearts of most of the people of infect hearts of most of the people of the other faiths ...”the other faiths ...”


CONSIDER:3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY• Muslim may not realize it, but one of the Muslim may not realize it, but one of the

admiration shown by non-Muslim towards admiration shown by non-Muslim towards the Islamic community is that they see the Islamic community is that they see Muslims, generally (even amongst ordinary Muslims, generally (even amongst ordinary ‘lay’ people) to manifest great religiosity ‘lay’ people) to manifest great religiosity and devotion in their everyday life, as and devotion in their everyday life, as compared to those of other faith.compared to those of other faith.

• For others, to worship one day in a week For others, to worship one day in a week would already be regarded as religious – would already be regarded as religious – whereas for all Muslims, 5 times daily!!whereas for all Muslims, 5 times daily!!


CONSIDER:3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY• And the manner of Muslim worship (And the manner of Muslim worship (SwolahSwolah), ),

is simply astonishing to non-Muslims – is simply astonishing to non-Muslims – especially when they observe Muslims especially when they observe Muslims engaging in congregational prayers.engaging in congregational prayers.

• In In RamadhanRamadhan, this symbol (spectacle) of , this symbol (spectacle) of connecting to the connecting to the DivineDivine, is replicated every , is replicated every night wherever there are Muslims, not just in night wherever there are Muslims, not just in mosques but even void-decks, community mosques but even void-decks, community halls and open spaces. It is even telecasted via halls and open spaces. It is even telecasted via TV and satellite.TV and satellite.


CONSIDER:

3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY• In a secular, materialist, irreligious age, the In a secular, materialist, irreligious age, the

Muslims certainly stand out – especially in Muslims certainly stand out – especially in RamadhanRamadhan - as the most conspicuous group - as the most conspicuous group of people to express, collectively and in a of people to express, collectively and in a most spectacular way, the existence and their most spectacular way, the existence and their reliance and devotion to the reliance and devotion to the DivineDivine..

• During the day they fasted, and its nights During the day they fasted, and its nights their devotional worship would evoke their devotional worship would evoke imagery of ‘monastic life-style’, but yet Islam imagery of ‘monastic life-style’, but yet Islam forbid Muslims to become monks or nuns.forbid Muslims to become monks or nuns.


CONSIDER:3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY• And although there are religious people in And although there are religious people in

other faiths too, yet these would only consist other faiths too, yet these would only consist of the exceptional minority – their clerics, of the exceptional minority – their clerics, priests, monks, nuns or leaders, whereas for priests, monks, nuns or leaders, whereas for the Muslims this (worshiping 5 times daily) the Muslims this (worshiping 5 times daily) and Ramadhan fasting, is the rule to the and Ramadhan fasting, is the rule to the general majority, not an exception. Those general majority, not an exception. Those who are discerning would have to admit to who are discerning would have to admit to some some Divine handiwork Divine handiwork in all these – for no in all these – for no other reason can reasonably explain. other reason can reasonably explain.


CONSIDER:• 3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY

Allah s.w.t. alludes to this:Allah s.w.t. alludes to this:


““Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; and those who are with him are strong against those who are with him are strong against Unbelievers, (but) compassionate amongst Unbelievers, (but) compassionate amongst each other. each other.

Thou wilt see them bow and prostrate Thou wilt see them bow and prostrate themselves (in prayer) seeking Grace from themselves (in prayer) seeking Grace from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. On their faces Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. On their faces are their marks, (being) the traces of their are their marks, (being) the traces of their prostration.”prostration.” ((Qur’an: Saff: 48: 29Qur’an: Saff: 48: 29))

CONSIDER:• 3. A WORSHIPFUL COMMUNITY

Allah s.w.t. alludes to this:Allah s.w.t. alludes to this:


““Such is their likeness in the Torah and their Such is their likeness in the Torah and their likeness in the Gospel - like as sown corn that likeness in the Gospel - like as sown corn that sends forth its shoot and strengthens it and sends forth its shoot and strengthens it and rises firm upon its stalk, delighting the sowers rises firm upon its stalk, delighting the sowers - that He may enrage the disbelievers with (the - that He may enrage the disbelievers with (the sight of) them. Allah hath promised, unto such sight of) them. Allah hath promised, unto such of them as believe and do good works, of them as believe and do good works, forgiveness and immense reward.” forgiveness and immense reward.”

((Qur’an: Saff: 48: 29Qur’an: Saff: 48: 29))

FOURTH DIVINE FOURTH DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

“ “ ... Muslims’ attachment to the ... Muslims’ attachment to the DivineDivine makes them able to be detached from makes them able to be detached from the effect of the materialistic world, the effect of the materialistic world, yet not forsaking the goodness in it ... “yet not forsaking the goodness in it ... “


CONSIDER:

4. “BE IN THE WORLD BUT ARE NOT OF THIS WORLD”

• A true Muslim will always remember that A true Muslim will always remember that ““we are from Allah, and unto Allah we shall we are from Allah, and unto Allah we shall be made to return tobe made to return to.” .” We all belong to the We all belong to the Divine.Divine.

• Thus he may be Thus he may be ““in this worldin this world” ” but he would but he would certainly know that certainly know that ““he is not of this worldhe is not of this world.”.”

• Others may not be significantly aware of this Others may not be significantly aware of this until they interact with them in until they interact with them in RamadhanRamadhan. .


CONSIDER:

4. “BE IN THE WORLD BUT ARE NOT OF THIS WORLD”

• A Muslim observing the fast would exude an A Muslim observing the fast would exude an extra-ordinary but a conscious detachment to extra-ordinary but a conscious detachment to worldly needs and physical desire.worldly needs and physical desire.

• Certainly he is undergoing a “great battle” Certainly he is undergoing a “great battle” within himself, for to be “within himself, for to be “MuslimMuslim“ is to to “ is to to “subdue our will and desire and submit it to “subdue our will and desire and submit it to the Divine Will”. the Divine Will”. A common feat for Muslims.A common feat for Muslims.

• So, understand this O people who can reflect !So, understand this O people who can reflect !


FIFTH DIVINE FIFTH DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

“ “ ... though some of the ways of Muslims ... though some of the ways of Muslims seem strange today, but it does resemble seem strange today, but it does resemble practices of such past personalities underpractices of such past personalities under Divine Divine guidance (Prophets) ... Abraham, guidance (Prophets) ... Abraham, Moses, Jesus ....”Moses, Jesus ....”


CONSIDER:

5. “RE-LIVING THE WAYS OF THE PROPHETS”

• Muslims are told that fasting is not Muslims are told that fasting is not something new, but was ordained also in something new, but was ordained also in the past:the past:

””O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you ...”as it was prescribed to those before you ...”



CONSIDER:

5. “RE-LIVING THE WAYS OF THE PROPHETS”

CONFIRMATION:CONFIRMATION:• ““Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and

hold a fast on my behalf, and neither eat nor drink hold a fast on my behalf, and neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day ...” for three days, night or day ...” ((O.T. Esther:4:16O.T. Esther:4:16))

• And they said to him (Jesus): “The disciples of John And they said to him (Jesus): “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees ...” of the Pharisees ...” ((N.T. Gospel of Luke: 5: 33N.T. Gospel of Luke: 5: 33))


CONSIDER:5. “RE-LIVING THE WAYS OF THE

PROPHETS”• Although fasting is acknowledged in other Although fasting is acknowledged in other

scriptures, yet it has been almost forgotten - scriptures, yet it has been almost forgotten - relegated as a rare practice only amongst relegated as a rare practice only amongst very few of their religious elites – as an very few of their religious elites – as an exception rather than as a rule.exception rather than as a rule.

• Through the Muslims in Through the Muslims in RamadhanRamadhan, one , one cannot but notice this practice – perhaps cannot but notice this practice – perhaps surprised as it seem strange, or react with surprised as it seem strange, or react with cynicism, or some may even react with awe.cynicism, or some may even react with awe.



PROPHETS”• Muslims, in Muslims, in RamadhanRamadhan is re-asserting this is re-asserting this

practice of past sages, Prophets and indeed practice of past sages, Prophets and indeed demonstrate, that even ordinary laity demonstrate, that even ordinary laity amongst the people even can emulate them amongst the people even can emulate them in this righteousness. More so in today’s in this righteousness. More so in today’s Secular and irreligious era, Muslims as a Secular and irreligious era, Muslims as a community, are reminding those with similar community, are reminding those with similar traditions, to re-assume a worthy practice in traditions, to re-assume a worthy practice in devotion to the devotion to the DivineDivine through self-restrain. through self-restrain.



PROPHETS”• This also re-iterate that the message brought This also re-iterate that the message brought

by Last Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is not by Last Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is not something new, but only as culmination of something new, but only as culmination of what had already been brought by previous what had already been brought by previous Prophets from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses Prophets from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses and Jesus (may Peace & blessings be upon all and Jesus (may Peace & blessings be upon all of them). i.e. The message of Pure of them). i.e. The message of Pure Monotheism – Monotheism – TAUHIIDTAUHIID – “ – “Attestation to the Attestation to the Absolute Absolute Oneness of the DivineOneness of the Divine”.”.


SIXTH DIVINE SIXTH DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

“ “ ... Do good to others, as Allah (the ... Do good to others, as Allah (the One True DivineOne True Divine) has been good to you; ) has been good to you; and seek not to create mischief on this and seek not to create mischief on this earth, for Allah loves not the wrong-earth, for Allah loves not the wrong-doer.” (doer.” (Qur’an: Qasas: 77Qur’an: Qasas: 77))


CONSIDER:

6. SERVING GOD THROUGH SERVING MANKIND

• Muslims are taught to express gratitude Muslims are taught to express gratitude towards Allah s.w.t. by fulfilling the needs of towards Allah s.w.t. by fulfilling the needs of others, for the sake of love for Allah s.w.t.others, for the sake of love for Allah s.w.t.

• Prophet Muhammad said:Prophet Muhammad said: “The best of “The best of mankind are those who benefits others”mankind are those who benefits others”

• Thus, amongst the lessons learnt by Muslim Thus, amongst the lessons learnt by Muslim in fasting is to experience the suffering of the in fasting is to experience the suffering of the poor and needy – to develop empathy.poor and needy – to develop empathy.


CONSIDER:


• Appreciation of Allah’s favour must be Appreciation of Allah’s favour must be reciprocated through helping others. Thus, reciprocated through helping others. Thus, in in RamadhanRamadhan, the spirit of sharing, , the spirit of sharing, neighbourliness, of strengthening bonds of neighbourliness, of strengthening bonds of kinship, of giving to those in need and kinship, of giving to those in need and charity of all kinds, etc, are much enhanced.charity of all kinds, etc, are much enhanced.

• Especially in providing the simple basic Especially in providing the simple basic needs which many have taken for granted, needs which many have taken for granted, like sharing a meal.like sharing a meal.


CONSIDER:


• Islam emphasise that devotion to Allah, must Islam emphasise that devotion to Allah, must also include being good to His creations.also include being good to His creations.

• Muslims are taught to strive towards being Muslims are taught to strive towards being people of Righteousness.people of Righteousness.

• But what is “But what is “RighteousnessRighteousness”?”?• In the Qur’an, Allah s.w.t. elaborates and In the Qur’an, Allah s.w.t. elaborates and

teaches the Muslims:teaches the Muslims:


RIGHTEOUSNESS:RIGHTEOUSNESS:


““It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces towards East or West; but it is righteousness―to towards East or West; but it is righteousness―to believe in Allah and the Last Day and the Angels and believe in Allah and the Last Day and the Angels and the Book and the Messengers; to spend of your the Book and the Messengers; to spend of your substance out of love for Him, for your kin, for substance out of love for Him, for your kin, for orphans for the needy, for the wayfarer for those orphans for the needy, for the wayfarer for those who ask and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast who ask and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer and practise regular charity; to fulfil the in prayer and practise regular charity; to fulfil the contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and patient in pain (or suffering) and adversity and patient in pain (or suffering) and adversity and throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth the Allah-fearing.” of truth the Allah-fearing.” ((Qur’an: Baqarah:177Qur’an: Baqarah:177) )

RIGHTEOUSNESS:RIGHTEOUSNESS:


“ “It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces towards East or West; but it is righteousness―to towards East or West; but it is righteousness―to believe in Allah and the Last Day and the Angels and believe in Allah and the Last Day and the Angels and the Book and the Messengers; to spend of your the Book and the Messengers; to spend of your substance out of love for Him, for your kin, for substance out of love for Him, for your kin, for orphans for the needy, for the wayfarer for those orphans for the needy, for the wayfarer for those who ask and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast who ask and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer and practise regular charity; to fulfil the in prayer and practise regular charity; to fulfil the contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and patient in pain (or suffering) and adversity and patient in pain (or suffering) and adversity and throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth the Allah-fearing.” (of truth the Allah-fearing.” (Qur’an: Baqarah:177Qur’an: Baqarah:177) )

RAMADHAN – MONTH OF TESTRAMADHAN – MONTH OF TESTTHESE QUALITIES ARE BEING INCULCATED THESE QUALITIES ARE BEING INCULCATED

THROUGHOUT THIS MONTH OF RAMADHAN -THROUGHOUT THIS MONTH OF RAMADHAN -TO TEACH EVERY MUSLIM THAT - WITH ALLAH’S TO TEACH EVERY MUSLIM THAT - WITH ALLAH’S

GUIDANCE, THIS CAN BE THEIR STANDARD OF LIFE GUIDANCE, THIS CAN BE THEIR STANDARD OF LIFE THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE YEAR – UNTIL THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE YEAR – UNTIL

ANOTHER RAMADHAN COMES.ANOTHER RAMADHAN COMES.

SEVENTH DIVINE SEVENTH DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

“This Qur’an is not such as can be produced by other than Allah. On the contrary it is a confirmation of revelations that went before it, and a fuller explanation of the Book wherein there is no doubt - from the (Divine) Lord of the Universe”

(Surah Yunus : 10: 37)37


CONSIDER:7. FOCUS – “THE FINAL PRESERVED

DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• As asserted in the Qur’an:As asserted in the Qur’an: ””RamadanRamadan is the (month) in which was sent down the is the (month) in which was sent down the

Qur'an as a guide to mankind also clear (Signs) for Qur'an as a guide to mankind also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (criterion between right guidance and judgment (criterion between right

and wrong). and wrong). ((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 185Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 185))



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• The Qur’an – being that living The Qur’an – being that living proof of Prophet proof of Prophet

Muhammad’s claim to be the Messenger of Allah – Muhammad’s claim to be the Messenger of Allah – as the outstanding miracle of the as the outstanding miracle of the DivineDivine authorship authorship cannot be ignored. Miraculously, it is still available cannot be ignored. Miraculously, it is still available untampered. Its original recitation, preserved untampered. Its original recitation, preserved through unbroken chain of reciters (through unbroken chain of reciters (Muqri’ - HufazMuqri’ - Hufaz). ). In fact, the Muslim regard the whole of it to be In fact, the Muslim regard the whole of it to be literally the “literally the “Words” Words” ofof AllahAllah the one and only the one and only Divine BeingDivine Being, Creator and Sustainer of all the worlds., Creator and Sustainer of all the worlds.



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• Though others may not as yet believe this claim, yet Though others may not as yet believe this claim, yet

Muslims not only assert this, but manifest their Muslims not only assert this, but manifest their conviction concerning its conviction concerning its DivineDivine source with a source with a genuine display of attitude, adoration, reliance and genuine display of attitude, adoration, reliance and reverence towards it and its teachings.reverence towards it and its teachings.

• It is up to others, who sincerely seek after the Truth It is up to others, who sincerely seek after the Truth to investigate for themselves. To find out – why do to investigate for themselves. To find out – why do more than 1.3 billion Muslims (currently) so dead-more than 1.3 billion Muslims (currently) so dead-certain, nay are unanimously in agreement, regarding certain, nay are unanimously in agreement, regarding this one Book ? If not, only to satisfy this curiosity.this one Book ? If not, only to satisfy this curiosity.



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• And it is in this month of And it is in this month of RamadhanRamadhan that the that the

Muslims’ pre-occupation with the Qur’an becomes Muslims’ pre-occupation with the Qur’an becomes conspicuously evident, unlike any other months.conspicuously evident, unlike any other months.

• Special honour, respect and reverential attention Special honour, respect and reverential attention are given for its recitation; to its reciters and are given for its recitation; to its reciters and memorizers, and to the assemblies where its memorizers, and to the assemblies where its teachings are expounded. The amazing spectacle is teachings are expounded. The amazing spectacle is that there is only one Al-Qur’an – undisputed and that there is only one Al-Qur’an – undisputed and unanimously agreed- which add to its unanimously agreed- which add to its DivineDivine claim. claim.



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• Its angelic recitations are even celebrated, when Its angelic recitations are even celebrated, when

additional night prayers in some mosques would additional night prayers in some mosques would entail commitment to complete reciting the whole entail commitment to complete reciting the whole of the Qur’an in this month – whether it be of the Qur’an in this month – whether it be “TaraweeH” “TaraweeH” or or “Taddarus.”“Taddarus.”

• With satellite technology, the special prayer from With satellite technology, the special prayer from the Grand mosque in the Grand mosque in MakkahMakkah, where the, where the Imam Imam recites from memory one recites from memory one juzujuzu’ of the ’ of the Divine Divine Qur’an Qur’an each night, would be beamed worldwide.each night, would be beamed worldwide.



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”• The night in which the Qur’an was revealed (which The night in which the Qur’an was revealed (which

some believe may also be) the Night of power or some believe may also be) the Night of power or Decree (Decree (Layla-tul-QadrLayla-tul-Qadr), is much awaited in one of ), is much awaited in one of the nights of the nights of RamadhanRamadhan – indeed a special – indeed a special additional value to this month diligently waited by additional value to this month diligently waited by Muslims because Allah says:Muslims because Allah says:



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”

““We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the night of Power(Decree): And what will explain to night of Power(Decree): And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power(Decree) is? The thee what the Night of Power(Decree) is? The Night of Power(Decree) is Night of Power(Decree) is better than a thousand better than a thousand MonthsMonths. Therein come down the angels and the . Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!... This until the rise of Morn! errand: Peace!... This until the rise of Morn!

((Qur’an: al-Qadr: 97: 1-5Qur’an: al-Qadr: 97: 1-5))



DIVINE BOOK OF REVELATION”


““Do they not consider the Qur’an with care ? Do they not consider the Qur’an with care ? Had it been from other than Allah, they would Had it been from other than Allah, they would surely have found therein much discrepancy”surely have found therein much discrepancy”

((Surah An- Nisa’ : 82Surah An- Nisa’ : 82))

EIGHT DIVINE EIGHT DIVINE SPECTACLESPECTACLE

” ” ...to complete the prescribed ...to complete the prescribed period (of Fasting), and to period (of Fasting), and to glorifyglorify Him (Him (the One and only true Divinethe One and only true Divine) ) in that He has guided you ....”in that He has guided you ....”



CONSIDER:8. THE RAMADHAN FINALE :

“GLORIFICATION OF ALLAH AS THE TRUE DIVINE”

• Muslims regard their striving in every act of Muslims regard their striving in every act of devotion in devotion in RamadhanRamadhan merely as a test of their merely as a test of their Faith to the Faith to the DivineDivine..

• They are taught to be sincere by eradicating They are taught to be sincere by eradicating any self-conceit attached to their devotions. any self-conceit attached to their devotions. They are much aware of their shortcomings and They are much aware of their shortcomings and race to gain the Mercy and forgiveness from race to gain the Mercy and forgiveness from Allah s.w.t. especially in this month.Allah s.w.t. especially in this month.

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CONSIDER:8. THE RAMADHAN FINALE :

“GLORIFICATION OF ALLAH AS THE TRUE DIVINE”

• Thus their accomplishment of Thus their accomplishment of RamadhanRamadhan fasting would be measured by the degree of fasting would be measured by the degree of their being grateful to Allah s.w.t. – to be their being grateful to Allah s.w.t. – to be expressed by the Glorification of Allah (as expressed by the Glorification of Allah (as the the OneOne Divine Being Divine Being without any partner).without any partner).

• The chanting of this Glorification (The chanting of this Glorification (TakbirTakbir) is ) is the capping finale followed by open-mass the capping finale followed by open-mass prayer in the morning of prayer in the morning of EID-UL-FITRIEID-UL-FITRI..


This brief elucidation is not This brief elucidation is not exhaustive ...... hoping only exhaustive ...... hoping only to highlight some of the to highlight some of the meanings which can be meanings which can be discerned from discerned from RamadhanRamadhan – – “as a spectacle of the Divine.”“as a spectacle of the Divine.”


““O Allah! We do not deny any ... Indeed, we O Allah! We do not deny any ... Indeed, we believe with certainty there are much more ... believe with certainty there are much more ... for we would never be able to enumerate all for we would never be able to enumerate all Your favours, O Lord! ”Your favours, O Lord! ”

�ع0ل�م 5ه3 أ �ع0ل�مو�الل 5ه3 أ و�الل


And Allah knows best !And Allah knows best !

““Which is it, of the favours of your Lord, Which is it, of the favours of your Lord, that ye deny?” (that ye deny?” (Qur’an: Ar-Rahman: 55:23Qur’an: Ar-Rahman: 55:23))

AND IF YOU ASK MUSLIMS:

“WHY DO YOU DO ALL THIS?”


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And say: "Work (righteousness): soon will Allah And say: "Work (righteousness): soon will Allah observe your work, and His Messenger and the observe your work, and His Messenger and the Believers: soon will ye be brought back to the Believers: soon will ye be brought back to the knower of what is hidden and what is open: then knower of what is hidden and what is open: then will He show you the truth of all that ye did." will He show you the truth of all that ye did."

((Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 105Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 105))


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““(Say our life takes its) colour from Allah; and who (Say our life takes its) colour from Allah; and who could give a better colour (to life) than Allah? and it could give a better colour (to life) than Allah? and it is He (Alone) Whom we worship. Say: Will ye is He (Alone) Whom we worship. Say: Will ye dispute with us about Allah, seeing that He is our dispute with us about Allah, seeing that He is our Lord and your Lord; that we are responsible for our Lord and your Lord; that we are responsible for our doings and ye for yours; and that we are sincere (in doings and ye for yours; and that we are sincere (in our faith) in Him?”our faith) in Him?”

((Surah al-Baqarah: 2: 138-139Surah al-Baqarah: 2: 138-139))


REFLECT !REFLECT !


““Many are the Jinns and men We have made Many are the Jinns and men We have made for Hell: they have hearts wherewith they for Hell: they have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle nay more misguided: for they are like cattle nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning).“heedless (of warning).“

(Qur’an: A’raf: 7: 179)(Qur’an: A’raf: 7: 179) 55

O MANKIND ! O MANKIND ! OBSERVE AND THINKOBSERVE AND THINK


REMINDER FOR MUSLIMS


““So Be grateful,So Be grateful, O Muslims !” O Muslims !”

” ” Allah intends every facility for you He Allah intends every facility for you He does not want to put you to difficulties. does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful (grateful (tash-ku-runtash-ku-run).” ).”

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:185Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:185))57


““So Be grateful,So Be grateful, O Muslims !” O Muslims !”

““.... (.... (shakurshakur) the criteria as to ) the criteria as to whether Muslims have been whether Muslims have been successful or not in undergoing this successful or not in undergoing this month of test, as much as it is month month of test, as much as it is month of bestowal of of bestowal of DivineDivine gifts.” gifts.”


” ”Allah intends every facility for you He does not Allah intends every facility for you He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” grateful.” ((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 185Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 185))


ABOUT BEING GRATEFUL


• كو3ر) ( الش�BEING GRATEFUL:

This is the key to This is the key to achieving increase achieving increase bestowal from Allah.bestowal from Allah.

• yet how does one yet how does one become grateful? What become grateful? What are the important are the important criteria?criteria?

1. Acknowledge the true giver, Allah Who is the Bestower of those favours.

2. Learn the value of what is given, no matter how small it may seem to be. Do not take any of these favours for granted – reflect constantly.

3. Utilize what is given in accordance to what may please the Giver (i.e. do not abuse the gift), so as not to cause His wrath to befall us.

BEING GRATEFUL


THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MUT-TAQEENMUT-TAQEEN ““ Begin with submission (Begin with submission (IslamIslam); ); exuding meaning of being faithful (exuding meaning of being faithful (iimaniiman);); inculcating righteous conduct (inculcating righteous conduct (IhsanIhsan); ); Inculcating sincerity Inculcating sincerity ((ikhlaswikhlasw);); Learn the essentials of striving (Learn the essentials of striving (jiHaadjiHaad);); patient perseverance (patient perseverance (SwobrSwobr); ); enhancing feeling of gratefulness (enhancing feeling of gratefulness (ShakurShakur);); Compassion for the poor & needy (Compassion for the poor & needy (RuhamahRuhamah););

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THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MUT-TAQEENMUT-TAQEEN ““ Steadfastness and consistence (Steadfastness and consistence (istiqomahistiqomah););

Heightened remembrance of Allah (Heightened remembrance of Allah (Dzik-rullahDzik-rullah););

Purge and purify body and Soul (Purge and purify body and Soul (mutatohhireenmutatohhireen););

Learn the meaning of “to return & repentance” Learn the meaning of “to return & repentance” ((InaabahInaabah););

BEING GRATEFUL


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THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON IN FASTING: – MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MEANING OF HOW TO BE A “MUT-TAQEENMUT-TAQEEN ““

Increase interaction with and adherence to Al-Increase interaction with and adherence to Al-Qur’an (Qur’an (tilaawah wa tadabburtilaawah wa tadabbur););

Increase in night devotions (Increase in night devotions (QiyaamQiyaam););

Reasserting and strengthening Islamic unity and Reasserting and strengthening Islamic unity and brotherhood (brotherhood (ittihaad wa ukhuwwahittihaad wa ukhuwwah););

BEING GRATEFUL


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OUR DU’AOUR DU’A

"Our Lord! accept (all worship, supplications, "Our Lord! accept (all worship, supplications, and every acts of devotions) from us; for and every acts of devotions) from us; for thou art the All-Hearing the All-Knowing.thou art the All-Hearing the All-Knowing.


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"Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate now "Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate now after Thou hast guided us, but grant us after Thou hast guided us, but grant us mercy from Thee: for Thou art the Grantor of mercy from Thee: for Thou art the Grantor of bounties without measure.”bounties without measure.”


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O Allah! We ask that You be pleased with O Allah! We ask that You be pleased with us and (grant us) the Paradise, and we seek us and (grant us) the Paradise, and we seek refuge (in You) from Your wrath and the refuge (in You) from Your wrath and the Hell-fire.”Hell-fire.”


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““(May) Allah grant His Reward upon Muhammad, (May) Allah grant His Reward upon Muhammad, salutations of Allah and Peace be upon him and salutations of Allah and Peace be upon him and his family, in accordance with what he deserves his family, in accordance with what he deserves (in Allah’s knowledge & estimation).”(in Allah’s knowledge & estimation).”


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”Glory to thy Lord the Lord, of Honour and Power! (He is free) from what they ascribe (to Him)! And Peace on the Messengers! And praise to Allah, the Lord and Cherisher of the Worlds.”

(Qur’an : Saffat: 37 : 180-182)


5ه? ح0م�ة3الل و�ر� 3م 0ك �ي ع�ل 5ه? السFالم3 ح0م�ة3الل و�ر� 3م 0ك �ي ع�ل السFالم33ه �ات ك �ر� 3هو�ب �ات ك �ر� و�ب

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