Ramadhan: a month of value judgment

The importance of Ramadhan is not in being merely ritualistic—the ritual of fasting, it is much beyond that. By fasting on fixed number of days for specified timings (dawn to dusk) the feeling of hunger and thirst dawns on the privileged sections of the society, thereby appreciation of under-privileged and dispossessed sections of the society prompts them to share resources. Besides, Ramadhan is the month, when Quranic revelations started. The Holy Quran is the Divine lesson in value judgment between right and wrong, as enshrined:

‘’Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. God intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.’’ (2:185)

Ramadhan, the month in which revelation of the Quran began shows all the humanity the clear path leading to its ultimate goal, revealing those permanent values whereby one can distinguish truth from falsehood. That is why Quran is also called Furqan-ul-Hamid, the gentle pointer to make a distinction between right and wrong. The Holy Book is programmed to keep individuals, the society as well, in a state of preparedness for upholding lofty principles. The coincidence of Quranic revelations with the holy month of Ramadhan is meant to augment the principles laid down, that is patience in the face of adversity, forbearance in whatever may tax the physique and strain the mind. Ramadhan in its essence, nourishes potentialities.