[slideshare] ramadhan-divine-spectacle(tadzkirah-8 july 2012)

UNDERSTANDING QUR’ANIC MESSAGE UNDERSTANDING QUR’ANIC MESSAGE

IN-HOUSE TALK FOR THE “MABUHAY CLUB”IN-HOUSE TALK FOR THE “MABUHAY CLUB”DARUL ARQAM SINGAPOREDARUL ARQAM SINGAPORE

BY: BY: USTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAILUSTAZ ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAIL SINGAPURASINGAPURA

8 JULY 2012 (SUNDAY)8 JULY 2012 (SUNDAY)3 PM @ THE GALAXY3 PM @ THE GALAXYMuslim Converts Assn. SporeMuslim Converts Assn. SporeGEYLANG, CHANGI ROADGEYLANG, CHANGI ROAD

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST MERCIFUL.MOST MERCIFUL.

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

SURAH AL-SURAH AL-BAQARAHBAQARAH

VERSESVERSES183-185183-185

SURAH AL-A’RAFSURAH AL-A’RAFVerse 179 Verse 179

LESSONS TO LEARN AND TO BE EXPERIENCED

"THE BEST AMONGST YOU IS ONE "THE BEST AMONGST YOU IS ONE WHO LEARNS THE QUR'AN AND WHO LEARNS THE QUR'AN AND

WHO TEACHES IT"-WHO TEACHES IT"-

((HADITH REPORTED BY BUKHARYHADITH REPORTED BY BUKHARY))


"Because Allah will never change the "Because Allah will never change the NI’MAHNI’MAH

(Divine Grace) which He hath bestowed on a (Divine Grace) which He hath bestowed on a

people until they change what is in their (own) people until they change what is in their (own)

souls: and verily Allah is He Who hears and souls: and verily Allah is He Who hears and

knows (all things)." knows (all things)."

((Qur’an: Anfal: 8: 53Qur’an: Anfal: 8: 53))

Muslim who understands and has correct worldview would already Muslim who understands and has correct worldview would already

see and acknowledge everything in this vast existence (creation) to see and acknowledge everything in this vast existence (creation) to

be “be “Signs of the DivineSigns of the Divine” to benefit mankind. ” to benefit mankind.

Yet, by ‘sign’ in requires our use of intellection and thinking; seeking Yet, by ‘sign’ in requires our use of intellection and thinking; seeking

into meanings thereby witnessing and being mesmerised by the into meanings thereby witnessing and being mesmerised by the

spectacles which these signs point to.spectacles which these signs point to.

Humans are created with the ability to know and to discern; to learn Humans are created with the ability to know and to discern; to learn

an to appreciate, anf ultimately to be connected to the Divine. an to appreciate, anf ultimately to be connected to the Divine.

Thinking (Thinking (TAFAKKURTAFAKKUR) in Islamic teaching is a higher form of devotion. ) in Islamic teaching is a higher form of devotion.


In fact Allah rebukes such attitude of failing to recognize all His favours, In fact Allah rebukes such attitude of failing to recognize all His favours,

signs and the guidance, by challenging man to realise the tremendous signs and the guidance, by challenging man to realise the tremendous

generosity of Allah’s favour upon that that they would not even be able generosity of Allah’s favour upon that that they would not even be able

simply to counting them (which would already be impossible) :simply to counting them (which would already be impossible) :



““IS, THEN, HE who creates comparable to any [being] that cannot IS, THEN, HE who creates comparable to any [being] that cannot

create? Will you not, then, bethink yourselves? For, should you try create? Will you not, then, bethink yourselves? For, should you try

to count Allah's blessings, you could never compute them! Behold, to count Allah's blessings, you could never compute them! Behold,

Allah is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace;”Allah is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace;”

((Qur’an: An-Nahlu: 16: 17-18Qur’an: An-Nahlu: 16: 17-18))

With the coming of With the coming of RamadhanRamadhan, let us ponder upon the possible , let us ponder upon the possible

‘meanings’ to be learnt thereby prepare us towards this ‘higher form’ ‘meanings’ to be learnt thereby prepare us towards this ‘higher form’

of devotions.of devotions.

Many Muslims may regard Many Muslims may regard RamadhanRamadhan only as time to observe period only as time to observe period

of fasting and other rituals, but totally neglectful that there are many of fasting and other rituals, but totally neglectful that there are many

lessons to be learnt. Sadly, they would not have gotten anything lessons to be learnt. Sadly, they would not have gotten anything

when when RamadhanRamadhan leaves them. leaves them.

Instead we should rather regard Instead we should rather regard RamadhanRamadhan as the “ as the “means; the means; the

opportunity; [Arabic – wasilah]opportunity; [Arabic – wasilah]” for, not just Muslims but all mankind ” for, not just Muslims but all mankind

to receive countless Divine gifts within it.to receive countless Divine gifts within it.


The Holy Qur'an calls upon people to think and to draw conclusions The Holy Qur'an calls upon people to think and to draw conclusions

through thought process. Only through use of thinking (thought through thought process. Only through use of thinking (thought

process) that truth can be discern – such that we realise the Divine process) that truth can be discern – such that we realise the Divine

gifts are overwhelming abundant and continuously bestowed. gifts are overwhelming abundant and continuously bestowed.

And those gifts which Allah s.w.t. bestowed or intends to bestow, And those gifts which Allah s.w.t. bestowed or intends to bestow,

firstly must be identified and clarified for them to appreciate. firstly must be identified and clarified for them to appreciate.

Even some Muslim may be ignorant or neglectful of what these are or Even some Muslim may be ignorant or neglectful of what these are or

what lessons to be learnt. what lessons to be learnt.

Allah warns:Allah warns:



““And We have certainly created for Hell many And We have certainly created for Hell many

of the jinn and mankind. They have hearts of the jinn and mankind. They have hearts

with which they do not understand, they have with which they do not understand, they have

eyes with which they do not see, and they eyes with which they do not see, and they

have ears with which they do not hear. Those have ears with which they do not hear. Those

are like livestock; rather, they are more are like livestock; rather, they are more

astray. It is they who are the heedless.”astray. It is they who are the heedless.”

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

• Those who may not be aware should be guided to see, and the Those who may not be aware should be guided to see, and the

meanings highlighted and explained to them, so that they may ponder meanings highlighted and explained to them, so that they may ponder

and to consider – as to the origin of these spectacular signs, which point and to consider – as to the origin of these spectacular signs, which point

towards towards the Divinethe Divine..

• There are many such spectacles, or manifestations or Symbols (There are many such spectacles, or manifestations or Symbols (Shi’ar – Shi’ar –

“min sha’aa-iril-laah”“min sha’aa-iril-laah”) – which are amongst signs of the Divine nature ) – which are amongst signs of the Divine nature

or origin of this Religion of Islam (or origin of this Religion of Islam (Ad-Deenul-IslamAd-Deenul-Islam).).

• And amongst these one can find in abundance, is in this noble and And amongst these one can find in abundance, is in this noble and

blessed month of “blessed month of “RamadhanRamadhan”.”.


““... one sign of Truth in a ... one sign of Truth in a DivineDivine teaching teaching

is in its remaining ever unchanging is in its remaining ever unchanging

and has universal appeal... “and has universal appeal... “


Amongst the sign of a religion with Amongst the sign of a religion with DivineDivine guidance is when its guidance is when its

teachings are able to remain unchanging as it was originally teachings are able to remain unchanging as it was originally

instituted and are still being adhered to, in spite of changing instituted and are still being adhered to, in spite of changing

times and circumstance.times and circumstance.

For Islam, For Islam, RamadhanRamadhan highlights one of these – i.e. highlights one of these – i.e. FASTINGFASTING, in , in

fact it was meant to re-affirm and re-establish the practices of fact it was meant to re-affirm and re-establish the practices of

earlier Prophets too.earlier Prophets too.


““O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is

ordained for you as it was ordained for those ordained for you as it was ordained for those

before you, so that you might remain conscious of before you, so that you might remain conscious of

Allah (TAQWA):”Allah (TAQWA):”

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


This phenomena of whole community (not mere individuals), This phenomena of whole community (not mere individuals),

observing (what to modern men) a ‘harsh’ life-style of ‘starving’ observing (what to modern men) a ‘harsh’ life-style of ‘starving’

amidst abundance of food – is rather a perplexing spectacle. “amidst abundance of 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 remark and ” is a common remark and

query.query.

Muslims do it not for dieting, nor for health nor for any man-Muslims do it not for dieting, nor for health nor for any man-

made reason. The unanimous reply when asked would be that it made reason. The unanimous reply when asked would be that it

is but “is but “a Divine commanda Divine command.” .”


Despite secular anthropologist’s contention that all religion are Despite secular anthropologist’s contention that all religion are

man-made – Muslims would adamantly reject this preposterous man-made – Muslims would adamantly reject this preposterous

suggestion regarding suggestion 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, in spite of Observers are indeed baffled at this phenomena, in spite of

negative media reports and negative media reports and IslamaphobiaIslamaphobia raging globally, more raging globally, more

so after “911”.so after “911”.


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:


““They want to extinguish Allah's [guiding] light They want to extinguish Allah's [guiding] light

with their utterances: but Allah will not allow with their utterances: but Allah will not allow

[this to pass], for He has willed to spread His [this to pass], for He has willed to spread His

light in all its fullness, however hateful this may light in all its fullness, however hateful this may

be to all who deny the truth.”be to all who deny the truth.”

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




““He it is who has sent forth His Apostle with the He it is who has sent forth His Apostle with the

[task of spreading] guidance and the religion of [task of spreading] guidance and the religion of

truth, to the end that He make it prevail over truth, to the end that He make it prevail over

every [false] religion; and none can bear witness every [false] religion; and none can bear witness

[to the truth] as God does..”[to the truth] as God does..”

((Qur’an: Fath: 48: 28Qur’an: Fath: 48: 28))




““... only a ... only a DivineDivine force is capable of force is capable of

mobilizing the faithful hearts ... “mobilizing the faithful hearts ... “


Mankind has never been able to promote a campaign of global Mankind has never been able to promote a campaign of global

magnitude prior to the availability of communication magnitude prior to the availability of communication

technology. technology.

Yet, Yet, RamadhanRamadhan for Muslims, everywhere even in remote places, for Muslims, everywhere even in remote places,

marks the time for a one-month long campaign of daily fasting, marks the time for a one-month long campaign of daily fasting,

of increase charity, of upgrading devotions, of self-restrain, etc. of increase charity, of upgrading devotions, of self-restrain, etc.

And it would be ushered, in synchrony, without fail as it has And it would be ushered, in synchrony, without fail as it has

been observed since over 1400 years ago. And, without the been observed since over 1400 years ago. And, without the

advantage of modern technology.advantage of modern technology.


What manner of organizing is capable of such feat? When What manner of organizing is capable of such feat? When

people marvel at the ability for organizing campaign, spending people marvel at the ability for organizing campaign, spending

vast sums of money and resource to promote, such as “vast sums of money and resource to promote, such as “to save to save

GaiaGaia”, “”, “World Aids dayWorld Aids day” etc. but with minimal success.” etc. but with minimal success.

Yet when Yet when RamadhanRamadhan comes, the observance and support; the comes, the observance and support; the

righteous acts which it promotes; never cease to fail - yet righteous acts which it promotes; never cease to fail - yet

without the need for fanfare and costly campaigning – only without the need for fanfare and costly campaigning – only

relying upon the faithful Muslims’ attachment to relying upon the faithful Muslims’ attachment to the Divinethe Divine..


And when any campaign ultimately would highlight its And when any campaign ultimately would highlight its

organizer, thus fororganizer, 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 Who alone is god. And

those who believe in Him would manifest unity in purpose, those who believe in Him would manifest unity in purpose,

brotherhood and worship / servitude. And those who brotherhood and worship / servitude. And those who

acknowledge Him would strive towards being conscious of His acknowledge Him would strive towards being conscious of His

Presence, by restraining their desire and passion- except to Presence, by restraining their desire and passion- except to

submit fully to submit fully to His Divine Will His Divine Will (in Islam). This would be the (in Islam). This would be the

unwritten slogan for other nations to see in this month of unwritten slogan for other nations to see in this month of

““RamadhanRamadhan””All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

And the Muslims are And the Muslims are DivinelyDivinely inspired and guided with: inspired and guided with:


And the Muslims are And the Muslims are DivinelyDivinely inspired and guided with: inspired and guided with:

“ “ .. and be not like those who are oblivious of Allah, .. and be not like those who are oblivious of Allah,

and whom He therefore causes to be oblivious of [what and whom He therefore causes to be oblivious of [what

is good for] their own selves: [for] it is they, they who is good for] their own selves: [for] it is they, they who

are truly depraved! Not equal are those who are are truly depraved! Not equal are those who are

destined for the fire and those who are destined for destined for the fire and those who are destined for

paradise: those who are destined for paradise - it is paradise: those who are destined for paradise - it is

they, they [alone] who shall triumph [on Judgment they, they [alone] who shall triumph [on Judgment

Day]!”Day]!”

((Qur’an: Hashr: 59: 19-20Qur’an: Hashr: 59: 19-20))All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

“ “ ... Muslims are still the most worshipful and ... Muslims are still the most worshipful and

faithful community in our time whereas faithful community in our time whereas

doubts of the doubts of the Divine Divine infect hearts of most of infect hearts of most of

the people of the other faiths ...”the people of the other faiths ...”


Muslim may not realize it, but one of the admiration shown by Muslim may not realize it, but one of the admiration shown by

non-Muslim towards the Islamic community is that they see non-Muslim towards the Islamic community is that they see

Muslims, generally (even amongst ordinary ‘lay’ people) to Muslims, generally (even amongst ordinary ‘lay’ people) to

manifest great religiosity and devotion in their everyday life, as manifest great religiosity 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 would already be For others, to worship one day in a week would already be

regarded as religious – whereas for all Muslims, 5 times daily!!regarded as religious – whereas for all Muslims, 5 times daily!!


And the manner of Muslim worship (And the manner of Muslim worship (SwolahSwolah), is simply ), is simply

astonishing to non-Muslims – especially when they observe astonishing to non-Muslims – especially when they observe

Muslims engaging in congregational prayers.Muslims engaging in congregational prayers.

In In RamadhanRamadhan, this symbol (spectacle) of connecting to the , this symbol (spectacle) of connecting to the DivineDivine, ,

is replicated every night wherever there are Muslims, not just in is replicated every night wherever there are Muslims, not just in

mosques but even void-decks, community halls and open spaces. mosques but even void-decks, community halls and open spaces.

It is even telecasted via TV and satellite.It is even telecasted via TV and satellite.


In a secular, materialist, irreligious age, the Muslims certainly In a secular, materialist, irreligious age, the Muslims certainly

stand out – especially in stand out – especially in RamadhanRamadhan - as the most conspicuous - as the most conspicuous

group of people to express, collectively and in a most spectacular group of people to express, collectively and in a most spectacular

way, the existence and their reliance and devotion to the way, the existence and their reliance and devotion to the DivineDivine..

During the day they fasted, and its nights their devotional worship During the day they fasted, and its nights their devotional worship

would evoke imagery of ‘monastic life-style’, but yet Islam forbid would evoke imagery of ‘monastic life-style’, but yet Islam forbid

Muslims to become monks or nuns.Muslims to become monks or nuns.


And although there are religious people in other faiths too, yet And although there are religious people in other faiths too, yet

these would only consist of the exceptional minority – their these would only consist of the exceptional minority – their

clerics, priests, monks, nuns or leaders, whereas for the Muslims clerics, priests, monks, nuns or leaders, whereas for the Muslims

this (worshiping 5 times daily) and Ramadhan fasting, is the rule this (worshiping 5 times daily) and Ramadhan fasting, is the rule

to the general majority, not an exception. Those who are to the general majority, not an exception. Those who are

discerning would have to admit to some discerning would have to admit to some Divine handiwork Divine handiwork in all in all

these – for no other reason can reasonably explain. these – for no other reason can reasonably explain.


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



MUHAMMAD is Allah’s Apostle; and those who are [truly] MUHAMMAD is Allah’s Apostle; and those who are [truly]

with him are firm and unyielding towards all deniers of the with him are firm and unyielding towards all deniers of the

truth, [yet] full of mercy towards one another. Thou canst truth, [yet] full of mercy towards one another. Thou canst

see them bowing down, pros trating themselves [in prayer], see them bowing down, pros trating themselves [in prayer],

seeking favour with Allah and [His] goodly acceptance: their seeking favour with Allah and [His] goodly acceptance: their

marks are on their faces, traced by prostration … ”marks are on their faces, traced by prostration … ”

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



“ … “ … This is their parable in the Torah as well as their parable in the This is their parable in the Torah as well as their parable in the

Gospel: [they are] like a seed that brings forth its shoot, and then Gospel: [they are] like a seed that brings forth its shoot, and then

He strengthens it, so that it grows stout, and [in the end] stands He strengthens it, so that it grows stout, and [in the end] stands

firm upon its stem, delighting the sowers [Thus will Allah cause firm upon its stem, delighting the sowers [Thus will Allah cause

the believers to grow in strength,] so that through them He might the believers to grow in strength,] so that through them He might

confound the deniers of the truth. [But] unto such of them as may confound the deniers of the truth. [But] unto such of them as may

[yet] attain to faith and do righteous deeds, Allah has promised [yet] attain to faith and do righteous deeds, Allah has promised

forgiveness and a reward supreme.”forgiveness and a reward supreme.”

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


“ “ ... Muslims’ attachment to the ... Muslims’ attachment to the DivineDivine makes makes

them able to be detached from the effect of them able to be detached from the effect of

the materialistic world, yet not forsaking the materialistic world, yet not forsaking

the goodness in it ... “the goodness in it ... “


A true Muslim will always remember that A true Muslim will always remember that ““we are from Allah, we are from Allah,

and unto Allah we shall be made to return toand unto Allah we shall be made to return to.” .” We all belong to We all belong to

the Divine.the Divine.

Thus he may be Thus he may be ““in this worldin this world” ” but he would certainly know that but he would certainly know that

““he is not of this worldhe is not of this world.”.”

Others may not be significantly aware of this until they interact Others may not be significantly aware of this until they interact

with them in with them in RamadhanRamadhan. .


A Muslim observing the fast would exude an extra-ordinary but A Muslim observing the fast would exude an extra-ordinary but

a conscious detachment to worldly needs and physical desire.a conscious detachment to worldly needs and physical desire.

Certainly he is undergoing a “great battle” within himself, for to Certainly he is undergoing a “great battle” within himself, for to

be “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 !


“ “ ... though some of the ways of Muslims seem ... though some of the ways of Muslims seem

strange today, but it does resemble 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 ....”


Muslims are told that fasting is not something new, but Muslims are told that fasting is not something new, but

was ordained also in the past:was ordained also in the past:


Muslims are told that fasting is not something new, but Muslims are told that fasting is not something new, but

was ordained also in the past:was ordained also in the past:

““O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is

ordained for you as it was ordained for those ordained for you as it was ordained for those

before you, so that you might remain before you, so that you might remain

conscious of Allah (TAQWA):”conscious of Allah (TAQWA):”



“ “Go, gather all the Jews to be found Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and neither eat nor drink for behalf, and neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day ...” three days, night or day ...”

((O.T. Esther:4:16O.T. Esther:4:16))

“ “And they said to him (Jesus): “The And they said to him (Jesus): “The disciples of John fast often and offer disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees ...” the Pharisees ...”

((N.T. Gospel of Luke: 5: 33N.T. Gospel of Luke: 5: 33))


Although fasting is acknowledged in other scriptures, yet Although fasting is acknowledged in other scriptures, yet

it has been almost forgotten - relegated as a rare practice it has been almost forgotten - relegated as a rare practice

only amongst very few of their religious elites – as an only amongst 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 cannot but notice , one cannot but notice

this practice – perhaps surprised as it seem strange, or this practice – perhaps surprised as it seem strange, or

react with cynicism, or some may be react with awe.react with cynicism, or some may be react with awe.


Muslims, in Muslims, in RamadhanRamadhan are re-asserting this practice of are re-asserting this practice of

past sages, Prophets and indeed demonstrate, that even past sages, Prophets and indeed demonstrate, that even

ordinary laity amongst the people even can emulate them ordinary laity amongst the people even can emulate them

in this righteousness. More so in today’s Secular and in this righteousness. More so in today’s Secular and

irreligious era, Muslims as a community, are reminding irreligious era, Muslims as a community, are reminding

those with similar traditions, to re-assume a worthy those with similar traditions, to re-assume a worthy

practice in devotion to the practice in devotion to the DivineDivine through self-restrain. through self-restrain.


This also re-iterate that the message brought by Last This also re-iterate that the message brought by Last

Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is not something new, but Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is not something new, but

only as culmination of what had already been brought by only as culmination of what had already been brought by

previous Prophets from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses previous Prophets from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses

and Jesus (may Peace & blessings be upon all of them). i.e. and Jesus (may Peace & blessings be upon all of them). i.e.

The message of Pure Monotheism – The message of Pure Monotheism – TAUHIIDTAUHIID – –

““Attestation to the Absolute Attestation to the Absolute Oneness of the DivineOneness of the Divine”.”.


“ “ ... Do good to others, as Allah (the ... Do good to others, as Allah (the One True DivineOne True Divine) )

has been good to you; and seek not to create has been good to you; and seek not to create

mischief on this earth, for Allah loves not the wrong-mischief on this earth, for Allah loves not the wrong-

doer.” doer.”

((Qur’an: Qasas: 77Qur’an: Qasas: 77))


Muslims are taught to express gratitude towards Allah s.w.t. by Muslims are taught to express gratitude towards Allah s.w.t. by

fulfilling the needs of others, for the sake of love for Allah s.w.t.fulfilling the needs of others, for the sake of love for Allah s.w.t.

Prophet Muhammad said:Prophet Muhammad said: “The best of mankind are those who “The best of mankind are those who

benefits others”benefits others”

Thus, amongst the lessons learnt by Muslim in fasting is to Thus, amongst the lessons learnt by Muslim in fasting is to

experience the suffering of the poor and needy – to develop experience the suffering of the poor and needy – to develop

empathy.empathy.


Appreciation of Allah’s favour must be reciprocated through Appreciation of Allah’s favour must be reciprocated through

helping others. Thus, in helping others. Thus, in RamadhanRamadhan, the spirit of sharing, , the spirit of sharing,

neighbourliness, of strengthening bonds of kinship, of giving to neighbourliness, of strengthening bonds of kinship, of giving to

those in need and charity of all kinds, etc, are much enhanced.those in need and charity of all kinds, etc, are much enhanced.

Especially in providing the simple basic needs which many have Especially in providing the simple basic needs which many have

taken for granted, like sharing a meal.taken for granted, like sharing a meal.


Islam emphasise that devotion to Allah, must also include being Islam emphasise that devotion to Allah, must also include being

good to His creations.good to His creations.

Muslims are taught to strive towards being people of Muslims are taught to strive towards being people of

Righteousness.Righteousness.

But what is “But what is “RighteousnessRighteousness”?”?

In the Qur’an, Allah s.w.t. elaborates and teaches the Muslims:In the Qur’an, Allah s.w.t. elaborates and teaches the Muslims:


““True piety does not consist in turning your faces towards True piety does not consist in turning your faces towards

the east or the west - but truly pious is he who believes in the east or the west - but truly pious is he who believes in

Allah, and the Last Day; and the angels, and revelation, and Allah, and the Last Day; and the angels, and revelation, and

the prophets; and spends his substance - however much he the prophets; and spends his substance - however much he

himself may cherish - it - upon his near of kin, and the himself may cherish - it - upon his near of kin, and the

orphans, and the needy, and the wayfarer, and the beggars, orphans, and the needy, and the wayfarer, and the beggars,

and for the freeing of human beings from bondage;.. .”and for the freeing of human beings from bondage;.. .”



“… “… and is constant in prayer, and renders the purifying and is constant in prayer, and renders the purifying

dues; and [truly pious are] they who keep their dues; and [truly pious are] they who keep their

promises whenever they promise, and are patient in promises whenever they promise, and are patient in

misfortune and hardship and in time of peril: it is they misfortune and hardship and in time of peril: it is they

that have proved themselves true, and it is they, they that have proved themselves true, and it is they, they

who are conscious of Allah.”who are conscious of Allah.”



“… “… and is constant in prayer, and renders the purifying and is constant in prayer, and renders the purifying

dues; and [truly pious are] they who keep their dues; and [truly pious are] they who keep their

promises whenever they promise, and are patient in promises whenever they promise, and are patient in

misfortune and hardship and in time of peril: it is they misfortune and hardship and in time of peril: it is they

that have proved themselves true, and it is they, they that have proved themselves true, and it is they, they

who are conscious of Allah.”who are conscious of Allah.”


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.


“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)


““It was the month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was It was the month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was

[first] bestowed from on high as a guidance unto man and a [first] bestowed from on high as a guidance unto man and a

self-evident proof of that guidance, and as the standard by self-evident proof of that guidance, and as the standard by

which to discern the true from the false.”which to discern the true from the false.”



The Qur’an – being that living The Qur’an – being that living proof of Prophet Muhammad’s proof of Prophet Muhammad’s

claim to be the Messenger of Allah – claim to be the Messenger of Allah – as the outstanding miracle as the outstanding miracle

of the of the DivineDivine authorship cannot be ignored. Miraculously, it is authorship cannot be ignored. Miraculously, it is

still available untampered. Its original recitation, preserved still available untampered. Its original recitation, preserved

through unbroken chain of reciters (through unbroken chain of reciters (Muqri’ - HufazMuqri’ - Hufaz). In fact, the ). In fact, the

Muslim regard the whole of it to be literally the “Muslim regard the whole of it to be literally the “Words” Words” ofof

AllahAllah the one and only the one and only Divine BeingDivine Being, Creator and Sustainer of all , Creator and Sustainer of all

the worlds.the worlds.


Though others may not as yet believe this claim, yet Muslims not Though others may not as yet believe this claim, yet Muslims not

only assert this, but manifest their conviction concerning its only assert this, but manifest their conviction concerning its

DivineDivine source with a genuine display of attitude, adoration, source with a genuine display of attitude, adoration,

reliance and reverence towards it and its teachings.reliance and reverence towards it and its teachings.

It is up to others, who sincerely seek after the Truth to It is up to others, who sincerely seek after the Truth to

investigate for themselves. To find out – why do more than 1.3 investigate for themselves. To find out – why do more than 1.3

billion Muslims (currently) so dead-certain, nay are unanimously billion Muslims (currently) so dead-certain, nay are unanimously

in agreement, regarding this one Book ? If not, only to satisfy this in agreement, regarding this one Book ? If not, only to satisfy this

curiosity.curiosity.


And it is in this month of And it is in this month of RamadhanRamadhan that the Muslims’ pre- that the Muslims’ pre-

occupation with the Qur’an becomes conspicuously evident, occupation with the Qur’an becomes conspicuously evident,

unlike any other months.unlike any other months.

Special honour, respect and reverential attention are given for its Special honour, respect and reverential attention are given for its

recitation; to its reciters and memorizers, and to the assemblies recitation; to its reciters and memorizers, and to the assemblies

where its teachings are expounded. The amazing spectacle is where its teachings are expounded. The amazing spectacle is

that there is only one Al-Qur’an – undisputed and unanimously that there is only one Al-Qur’an – undisputed and unanimously

agreed- which add to its agreed- which add to its DivineDivine claim. claim.


Its angelic recitations are even celebrated, when additional night Its angelic recitations are even celebrated, when additional night

prayers in some mosques would entail commitment to complete prayers in some mosques would entail commitment to complete

reciting the whole of the Qur’an in this month – whether it be reciting the whole of the Qur’an in this month – whether it be

“TaraweeH” “TaraweeH” or or “Taddarus.”“Taddarus.”

With satellite technology, the special prayer from the Grand With satellite technology, the special prayer from the Grand

mosque in mosque in MakkahMakkah, where the, where the Imam Imam recites from memory one recites from memory one

juzujuzu’ of the ’ of the Divine Qur’an Divine Qur’an each night, would be beamed each night, would be beamed

worldwide.worldwide.


The night in which the Qur’an was revealed (which some believe The night in which the Qur’an was revealed (which some believe

may also be) the Night of power or Decree (may also be) the Night of power or Decree (Layla-tul-QadrLayla-tul-Qadr), is ), is

much awaited in one of the nights of much awaited in one of the nights of RamadhanRamadhan – indeed a – indeed a

special additional value to this month diligently waited by special additional value to this month diligently waited by

Muslims because Allah says:Muslims because Allah says:


“ “We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the night We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the night

of Power(Decree): And what will explain to thee of Power(Decree): And what will explain to thee

what the Night of Power(Decree) is? The Night of what the Night of Power(Decree) is? The Night of

Power(Decree) is Power(Decree) is better than a thousand Monthsbetter than a thousand Months. .

Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by

Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!... This Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!... This

until the rise of Morn! until the rise of Morn!

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


““Will they not, then, try to understand this Qur’an? Will they not, then, try to understand this Qur’an?

Had it issued from any but Allah, they would surely Had it issued from any but Allah, they would surely

have found in it many an inner contradiction!”have found in it many an inner contradiction!”

((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 28Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 28))


” ” ...to complete the prescribed period (of Fasting), ...to complete the prescribed period (of Fasting),

and to and to glorifyglorify Him ( Him (the One and only true the One and only true

DivineDivine) in that He has guided you ....”) in that He has guided you ....”

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


Muslims regard their striving in every act of devotion in Muslims regard their striving in every act of devotion in

RamadhanRamadhan merely as a test of their Faith to the merely as a test of their Faith to the DivineDivine..

They are taught to be sincere by eradicating any self-conceit They are taught to be sincere by eradicating any self-conceit

attached to their devotions. They are much aware of their attached to their devotions. They are much aware of their

shortcomings and race to gain the Mercy and forgiveness from shortcomings and race to gain the Mercy and forgiveness from

Allah s.w.t. especially in this month.Allah s.w.t. especially in this month.


Thus their accomplishment of Thus their accomplishment of RamadhanRamadhan fasting would be fasting would be

measured by the degree of their being grateful to Allah s.w.t. – measured by the degree of their being grateful to Allah s.w.t. –

to be expressed by the Glorification of Allah (as the to be expressed by the Glorification of Allah (as the OneOne Divine Divine

Being Being without any partner).without any partner).

The chanting of this Glorification (The chanting of this Glorification (TakbirTakbir) is the capping finale ) is the capping finale

followed by open-mass prayer in the morning of followed by open-mass prayer in the morning of EID-UL-FITRIEID-UL-FITRI..


This brief elucidation is not exhaustive ...... This brief elucidation is not exhaustive ......

hoping only to highlight some of the hoping only to highlight some of the

meanings which can be discerned from meanings which can be discerned from

RamadhanRamadhan – –

“as a spectacle of the Divine.”“as a spectacle of the Divine.”


And say: "Work (righteousness): soon will Allah observe your And say: "Work (righteousness): soon will Allah observe your

work, and His Messenger and the Believers: soon will ye be work, and His Messenger and the Believers: soon will ye be

brought back to the knower of what is hidden and what is open: brought back to the knower of what is hidden and what is open:

then will He show you the truth of all that ye did." then will He show you the truth of all that ye did."

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


““(Say our life takes its) colour from Allah; and who could give a (Say our life takes its) colour from Allah; and who could give a

better colour (to life) than Allah? and it is He (Alone) Whom we better colour (to life) than Allah? and it is He (Alone) Whom we

worship. Say: Will ye dispute with us about Allah, seeing that He worship. Say: Will ye dispute with us about Allah, seeing that He

is our Lord and your Lord; that we are responsible for our doings is our Lord and your Lord; that we are responsible for our doings

and ye for yours; and that we are sincere (in our faith) in Him?”and ye for yours; and that we are sincere (in our faith) in Him?”

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


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[slideshare] ramadhan-divine-spectacle(tadzkirah-8 july 2012)

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