The month of blessings, the month of forgiveness, the holy month of Ramazan is about to begin! This month is a special gift from Allah to us, and we must fully utilise it, for we do not know whether we will be privileged enough to observe with this month again or not.

But how should we ‘fully utilise’ this month? Perhaps, the easiest way is to remain busy in Allah’s glorifications, praying to Him for His blessings and for forgiveness, and asking Him for help and support. Also, we must not forget the extraordinary benefit of reciting the Holy Quran in Ramazan, considering it was revealed to the Holy Prophet (SAW) in the month of Ramazan. Thus, we must recite as much Quran as possible. Moreover, we must recite the Durood Sharif to pay respect and honour our Holy Prophet (SAW), the last messenger of Allah.

Apart from fulfilling our duties towards God, we must care for the rights of the people. Perhaps, the best way to fulfil the rights of people is to show mercy and kindness. We must be kind and generous to our parents, siblings, relatives, neighbours and even every unknown person. In addition, we must try to help the poor and needy, and should fulfil their rights by providing them financial and moral support.

For example, a little act of kindness can be that we can give a glass of water to anyone in our house, or a poor person (when he is not in state of fasting). Even a smile is an act of charity and will be rewarded on the Day of Resurrection.

Although the good deeds which we can do in such a blessed month are innumerable, I have discussed only a few and the main ones. However, remember, we should not waste this month simply by keeping ourselves busy in playing games, watching movies, going for shopping, feasting at Iftar, etc. A rising trend amongst teenagers these days is to stay awake all night from Iftar to Sahoor, and then sleep after Sahoor. In my opinion, it is better that we spend the majority of our fast in remembering God, rather than sleep or playing games.

To summarise, one must spend a majority of one’s time in asking God to shower his blessings on us and to grant forgiveness. We should try to be busy in worshipping, praying and reciting Quran during this month, hoping that God will assuredly listen to us and forgive us.

Remember, what if Ramazan passes and we still are unable to seek forgiveness from God? May God give us the strength to utilise this beneficial month and to take full advantage of it. Ameen!

Published in Dawn, Young World, April 10th, 2021