Alhamdulillah, we are now at the doorstep of Ramadhaan Shareef. Below are a few points we should bear in mind, in order to reap maximum rewards from this blessed month:
- Fasting is fardh/compulsory. It has become a trend for people to avoid fasting, by using invalid excuses. Remember we can fool people but ultimately, we will have to answer to Allah and there is no fooling Him.
- Those who take medication should alter dosage times around their fasting hours. However if they are suffering from major illnesses, proper medical advice should be sought from a Mutaqee/pious physician.
- Make taleem/Learn about the rulings of Fasting from a good Fiqh book.
- Partake in the pre-dawn meal, as this is an essential ingredient in fasting. Nabi ﷺ mentioned that the difference between our fasts and that of the Jews is that we partake in the pre-dawn meal. This meal should be eaten before Fajr, in the last portion of the night.
- Set aside some time daily, to perform Tahajjud Salah and dua just before the pre-dawn meal.
- As far as possible, pray Fajr Salah in congregation in the Masjid.
- At least for this month avoid anything, anyone or any place that distracts you from worship. Do not get involved in idle conversations over coffee, or after Taraweeh barbecues/braais. Rather, remain focused on the fact that we are in Ramadan, and we need to reap abundant rewards while this month lasts.
Lastly…be passionate about fasting and do not treat it like a burden!
– Shaykh Dawood Seedat حفظه اللّٰه
