SISTER: THE RAMADAN OF YOUR DREAM
As Ramadan approaches and we’re about to begin (may Allah count us among those who will experience more of it on earth), preparations are in top gear to welcome the month.
Scholars are dusting off their books, men are checking their pockets, women are rearranging their kitchens, and children are awaiting a new set of daily activities. Ramadan has something for everyone.
Obviously, for Muslims, the month comes with new experiences, spiritual reawakening, connection with Allah, soul-lifting activities, etc.
Most times we have lofty spiritual goals to achieve in Ramadan, and only very few usually actualize these goals. From completing the Qur’an recitation to waking for tahajud every night to feeding the needy, everyone has their unique list.
However, as we navigate the holy month, our sisters are usually fixated on the idea that some of their chores have taken up their time for core ibaadat. Having to cook suhur during tahajud time and preparing a tasty iftar when they’re either supposed to be reciting the Qur’an or attending a tafsir class. In the end, it usually appears that they are left out of the spiritual experiences, leading to burnout and frustration.
Should this be so?
Yes and No, depending on how you look at it.
You’ll be left out of the juicy offer if you see those things as mere chores and not as ibaadat. Also, if you don’t consider other ibaadat alternatives despite your tight schedule, then, you’ll miss out on the spiritual experiences this Ramadan.
Let me break it down.
First, we must all realize that Islam is a balanced religion, providing an opportunity for everyone to attain the lofty goals of jannah and attaining the mercy of Allah. In essence, there are different types of ibaadat that are almost of equal value, giving everyone almost equal opportunity to partake in the spiritual expedition irrespective of your status, schedule, gender, etc.
While Qur’an recitation is highly rewarding, standing up for night prayers also comes with elevated offers. How about adhkar, you can hardly quantify the amount of reward you get when you engage in them.
So, dear sisters, you also have huge opportunities. Consider the following to get the best out of Ramadan.
1. See some of your chores as ibaadat and treat them as such. If the men are busy reciting the Qur’an after Asr and you’re busy in the kitchen, making iftar, by merely changing your psyche and your intention that you’re making iftar for Muslims who are currently reciting the Qur’an will give you dual benefits of internal fulfillment and a huge reward too.
2. Choose ibaadat that suits your situation. If you’re busy managing the children, which denies you the opportunity to pick up the Qur’an and recite, why not switch to listening to the Qur’an recitation. Will you lose anything? If the kitchen will not allow you to attend the tafsir, why not switch to chanting adhkar, most of whom comes with a promise of huge reward directly from the prophet.
In conclusion, Allah has given us all an opportunity to be close to Him, earn His mercy, and gain His paradise. It’s up to you to consider your peculiar situation and intentionally make choices that align with such situations and will give you an equal amount of reward.
I wish myself and you the best Ramadan experience and may Allah accept it from us.
Ramadan Kareem.
© Abdulrafiu Arikewuyo