Main Topic
Welcoming Ramadan Sharif and understanding its immense virtues and spiritual rewards based on the sermon delivered by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) on the last day of Sha'ban.
Key Lessons
- The pious predecessors and Sahaba (Radiallahu anhum) anticipated Ramadan with joy, preparation, Istighfar, and sincere intentions (niyyat).
- Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power) is a special blessing exclusive to the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam).
- Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory (Fard), while praying 20 rak'ats of Taraweeh at night is Sunnah Mu'akkadah for both men and women.
- Good deeds are multiplied exponentially in Ramadan: a Nafl (voluntary) act carries the reward of a Fard act, while a Fard act carries the reward of 70 Fard acts outside Ramadan.
- Ramadan is the month of patience (Sabr), generosity (Muwasaat), and increased spiritual and physical provision (Rizq).
- Providing Iftar to a fasting person yields the full reward of their fast without reducing their reward in the slightest.
Quranic/Hadith References
- Surah al-Baqarah (2:185): "The month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was revealed, a guide for the people..."
- Hadith of Sayyiduna Salman al-Farsi (Radiallahu anhu): The Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) addressed the Sahaba on the last day of Sha'ban outlining the virtues, three stages (Rahmat, Maghfirah, Freedom from Jahannam), and practices of Ramadan.
Practical Advice
- Plan and set clear intentions (niyyat) before Ramadan begins to maximize daily worship and Qur'an recitation.
- Practice patience (Sabr) in all situations, including altered schedules, long queues, and controlling one's temper.
- Avoid commercial takeaway foods; consume wholesome meals prepared with love, mindfulness, and remembrance of Allah.
- Lighten the workload and responsibilities of employees, workers, and domestic helpers during the fasting month.
- Abundantly engage in four daily practices: reciting the Kalimah (La ilaha illallah), seeking forgiveness (Istighfar), begging for Jannah, and seeking protection from the Hellfire.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb