The Blessed Reward of Ramadhan!

The month of Ramadhan is a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims around the world. The purpose of fasting has been clearly stated in the Holy Quran:

"O, you who have believed, fasting has been decreed upon you as it was decreed upon those before you that you may attain piety (Taqwa)." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)

This verse signifies that the fundamental aim of fasting is to achieve Taqwa, which means piety, God-consciousness, and a life lived in the awareness of Allah’s presence. A true believer must live in obedience to Allah, avoiding everything that harms His creation and humanity. Not only should one abstain from acts that inflict harm on others, but one must also refrain from actions that are detrimental to oneself, such as consuming alcohol, gambling, and engaging in immoral behavior.

Taqwa is the essence of a righteous life, instilling in a person the fear of displeasing Allah. This fear is not one of terror but of reverence and love, leading to a disciplined and ethical life. A person who attains Taqwa ensures that their actions align with divine guidance and that they contribute positively to society. The self-restraint practiced during Ramadhan is a reminder of the importance of leading a life that upholds righteousness and justice.

After a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual cleansing, Eid-ul-Fitr arrives as a joyous celebration. However, the happiness of Eid is not just about festivity, new clothes, or delicious food; rather, it is the joy of successfully fulfilling a great spiritual obligation. It is a moment of gratitude that Muslims, as a community, were blessed with the opportunity to engage in Allah’s worship on a large scale. It also signifies a renewed commitment to pursuing Taqwa and living by the principles of Islam.

Eid is not an individual celebration but a collective one that unites the Muslim Ummah across the globe. It is a time when all Muslims, regardless of their geographical location, culture, or ethnicity, come together in the same spirit of gratitude and happiness. The very essence of Eid sends a clear message that the joy of Muslims is rooted in their faith and that their unity is an undeniable reality. The occasion serves as a reminder that, just as the happiness of Muslims is one, so too should their sorrows be shared.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully described the unity of the Muslim community by saying:

"The believers, in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy, are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever." (Sahih Muslim)

Eid, therefore, carries the message that the pain of one Muslim should be the concern of all Muslims. It highlights the bond that connects the Ummah as one entity, fostering the values of empathy, solidarity, and support for one another.

In the Kashmiri culture, Eid holds a special significance and is celebrated in a distinctive manner. A beautiful tradition that was once an essential part of Eid in Kashmir was the singing of folk songs, particularly Kashmiri Rouf. In the past, women would gather and perform Rouf as part of the Eid celebrations, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Unfortunately, due to disturbances and changes in society, this tradition has diminished, now being mostly confined to weddings. However, in earlier times, Ramadhan and Eid would see an enthusiastic participation of women, including non-Muslim women, in these traditional celebrations, showcasing the cultural harmony of the region.

One concerning practice that has emerged in modern times is the use of firecrackers during Eid celebrations. While some may see it as a way to express joy, it carries potential hazards and contributes to environmental pollution. Islam emphasizes cleanliness and the protection of nature, making it essential for Muslims to be mindful of their actions. True celebration does not mean engaging in activities that cause harm to the environment or create disturbances for others. The spirit of Eid should be about spreading joy, unity, and gratitude in ways that align with Islamic principles.

Muslims must remember that Islam promotes a way of life centered on purity, kindness, and responsibility. Pollution, wastage, and harm to the environment contradict the teachings of Islam. Eid should be a time of reflection, reminding us that our joy should not come at the expense of nature or the well-being of others. True happiness lies in acts of kindness, charity, and the sharing of blessings with those in need.

Eid-ul-Fitr is a beautiful occasion that not only marks the completion of Ramadhan but also reinforces the values of unity, gratitude, and faith. It serves as a reminder that the strength of the Muslim community lies in its togetherness and that the happiness of one Muslim should be the happiness of all. By upholding the spirit of Eid, Muslims can continue to foster harmony, compassion, and a sense of belonging, making this blessed occasion a true celebration of faith and humanity.