BASMA ALTWEJRI
Ramadan is a month of spiritual growth and generosity.
Here’s how to embrace the holy season fully.
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, prayer, and deep spiritual reflection. It is a time of devotion, self-restraint, and renewal of faith. Beyond the physical act of fasting, Ramadan embodies a profound commitment to compassion, generosity, and strengthening communal bonds.
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset, instead shifting their focus to self-discipline, spiritual growth, and acts of charity.
Fundamental to the essence of Ramadan are acts of kindness, showcasing the principles of empathy and community solidarity, which are essential for many reasons. In particular:
Spiritual Growth: Engaging in good deeds helps strengthen one’s relationship with God and fosters a sense of spiritual renewal.
Compassion and Unity: As each individual fasts they experience the challenges of the less fortunate, which reinforce the values of empathy and solidarity.
Increased Rewards: Ramadan is a month where the rewards for good deeds are multiplied which encourages Muslims to engage more in acts of worship and charity.
Building Good Habits: Ramadan serves as a time to cultivate good habits that can extend beyond the month. Engaging in good deeds helps instill a sense of responsibility and encourages ongoing charitable behavior.
As we collectively strive to deepen our connection with God during this holy month of Ramadan, consider these simple yet impactful ways to truly embody its spirit:
1. Charity begins at home.
Prioritize the needs of your family, extended relatives, neighbors, close friends and those in need around you. As The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The best of you is the one who is best to his family, and I am the best of you to my family”.
Preparations
Helping the community to prepare for Ramadan can make a significant difference in their experience during this holy month. Here are some thoughtful ways to assist:
Enable less fortunate families by assembling a basket of nourished food ingredients and pantry. You can donate safely and securely through the official governmental platform https://ehsan.sa/
Support your Local Mosque by assisting with maintenance and facility cleanups. Additionally, setting up the mosque with the needed supplies and resources such as re-stocking essential items (prayer mats, Quran, and Dua Booklets). You can either coordinate directly with the mosque imam or register via https://nvg.gov.sa/public/vol-opport by selecting volunteering in the religious icon.
Food Preservation and Sustainability
While food is abundant during Ramadan, it’s crucial to avoid waste. Extending shelf life through proper storage and sharing surplus with those in need promotes sustainability. Leftovers can also be repurposed by safely feeding birds and stray animals.
2. Step forward and volunteer!
Volunteering is now easier and more effective than ever, thanks to the official Saudi governmental platform, nvg.gov.sa. This platform allows individuals to find volunteer opportunities that match their skills and experience, giving them the flexibility to choose the location, timing, and type of work that suits them best. Additionally, it enables users to track their volunteer hours and provides official certificates for their contributions.
3. Raise awareness about the importance of giving back.
According to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) “Whoever guides to a good deed will get the same reward as the doer of that deed” So, don’t hesitate to capture and share your experiences; your story can inspire others to get involved and make a meaningful difference.
4. Eid for All: Bridging hearts and unity through celebrating it with others
Ramadan is a reminder of our unity; Muslims worldwide fast at the same hours, pray for forgiveness and reconnect with our spiritually, therefore we should also support one another to celebrate the joy of Eid together!
Donate in-kind items for less fortunate families
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “none of you are truly believes, until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” When donating, reflect on what you would like to wear, how your children and loved once will enjoy celebrating Eid, and contribute to the joy of the less fortunate accordingly.
Help others celebrate
While many of us are surrounded by family and loved ones during Eid celebrations, some individuals may not have the same support system. This includes expat Muslims or those receiving long term treatment in hospitals and their families. Let’s make this Eid special by including them in our celebrations! Consider inviting them to join your festivities or visiting them with thoughtful gifts to spread joy and warmth. Together, we can create a more inclusive and joyful atmosphere for everyone.
For more inspiring ideas and opportunities to give back to your community, visit PayForwardSA on X or Instagram.
As we journey through Ramadan, let us embrace the values of peace, kindness, and generosity that define this holy month. By nurturing our spiritual growth and extending our hands, we can create a ripple effect of compassion within our communities. Whether through acts of charity, volunteering, or simply sharing the joy of Eid with others, every small effort contributes to a more harmonious society.
May this month be a source of reflection, renewal, and meaningful action.
Wishing you a blessed Ramadan filled with peace and kindness.
