School Chaplain's Message

Assalaamu Alaykum WRWB,

The Virtue of the Month of Ramadan

The month of Ramadan is one of the greatest blessings that Allah (SWT) has granted to the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (S). It is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation from the Hellfire. Ramadan is not merely a time of fasting from food and drink; rather, it is a comprehensive spiritual journey that nurtures the soul, strengthens faith, and purifies the heart.

Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an: “O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, that you may become righteous (have Taqwa).” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183). This verse highlights the main objective of Ramadan: attaining Taqwa—consciousness and awareness of Allah in every aspect of our lives. Through fasting, the believer learns self-discipline, patience, gratitude, and sincerity. By refraining from lawful things during the day for the sake of Allah, we train ourselves to stay away from what is unlawful at all times.

Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed, as mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185). This makes it a month deeply connected to the Book of Allah. Muslims increase their recitation, reflection, and understanding of the Qur’an during this blessed time. The heart becomes softer, the eyes shed tears, and the soul finds tranquility in the words of its Creator.

Among the special virtues of Ramadan is that the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained, as mentioned in the authentic hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. This creates a unique spiritual atmosphere that encourages believers to turn back to Allah in sincere repentance. It is a golden opportunity for those who seek forgiveness and wish to reform their lives.

Another immense blessing of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), which is better than a thousand months. Worship performed on this night carries the reward of more than eighty-three years of devotion. It is a night of peace, mercy, and divine decree. The Prophet Muhammad (S) would increase his worship in the last ten nights, striving in prayer and supplication.

Ramadan is also a month of generosity and compassion. The Prophet (S) was known to be the most generous of people, and he was even more generous during Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to give charity, feed the poor, support the needy, and strengthen family ties. Fasting reminds us of the struggles of those who go hungry daily, nurturing empathy and gratitude.

Furthermore, Ramadan unites the Muslim community. From the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) to the breaking of the fast (iftar), families gather, hearts connect, and masjids fill with worshippers for Taraweeh prayers. It is a month that revives brotherhood, sisterhood, and a shared sense of purpose.

In conclusion, Ramadan is a precious gift that should not be wasted. It is a month of transformation, where sins are forgiven, ranks are raised, and hearts are reconnected to Allah. Let us welcome this blessed month with sincere intentions, striving to make it a turning point in our lives. May Allah allow us to witness Ramadan, benefit from its blessings, and accept from us our fasting, prayers, and good deeds. Ameen.

Sheikh Fawaz Kamaz, School Chaplain