How to benefit from the final 10 days of Ramadhan…
Another Ramadhan coming to a close and I ask myself have I done enough?
It seemed like only yesterday that we welcomed you, and now only few days left until we bid you farewell . The final 10 days of Ramadan are considered particularly significant for Muslims around the world. It is also an opportunity to get closer to God, infuse purpose into ones everyday life, and make goals to continue the positive attributes gained beyond Ramadhan. One of the aims is to seek Laylatul Qadr, which is the night when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is not specified in the Quran, but it is believed to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last ten nights. Here are some ways to make the most of these final days:
🤲Engage in acts of Worship and Devotion: Using these last few days, I have made sure, I intensify my worship and devotion. Spend more time in prayer, recitation of the Quran, and engage in acts of remembrance and supplication. This is also an opportunity to work on self-improvement both spiritually and physically.
The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “Truly I was sent as a Prophet for the purpose of perfecting human character.” This hadith alludes to a very important part of Islam, which is self-improvement through refining one’s own personal qualities.
🌙 Seek Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) falls within the last 10 days of Ramadan, and it is the night when Quran was revealed. This is the time to complete acts of worship, additional prayers and recitation of the Quran. The exact night is unknown, but it is believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last 10 days.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whosoever performs Qiyam (night vigil prayer) during Lailat Al-Qadr (Night of Decree), with faith and being hopeful of Allah’s reward, will have his former sins forgiven.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
📲Give Charity: This month is a brilliant opportunity to increase your giving, especially the last 10 nights. Support those in need by giving Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity). This can be given to local charities, mosques and supporting humanitarian causes. You can automate your donations in the last 10 nights by visiting: (https://www.islamic-relief.org.uk/giving/islamic-giving/ramadan/my-ten-nights/)
Charitable men and charitable women who have loaned Allah a good loan — it will be multiplied for them, and for them is a generous reward. (Surah al-Hadid, 18)
🫂Perform Acts of Kindness: Use this time to demonstrate generosity such as helping neighbours, checking on a friend, showing compassion and empathy to everyone you meet. Small acts of kindness can have a huge impact in this blessed month. There are opportunities in the local area as well as community centres. Some examples include: Surprising someone with a small gift, buying a friend a coffee, or leaving notes in public places to spread positivity and goodwill. There is increasing evidence of improved mental wellbeing amongst young people who engage in acts of kindness. (https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-involved/teaching-resources/kindness-resource-list)
They will meet each other and reminisce among themselves. They will say, “We used to be kind and humble among our people. God has blessed us and has spared us the agony of ill winds. “We used to implore Him; He is the Most Kind, Most Merciful.” Quran 52:25
🤝Constant Reflection, Repentance and prayers: Take some time for self-reflection and introspection. This month has made me constantly reflect on my actions, behaviours, and spirituality. I have sought to constantly seek forgiveness for my shortcomings. You can either make your own dua list or use the list provided here (https://islamicrelief.org.au/10-simple-duas-you-can-memorise-for-ramadan/)
Furthermore, it is time to promote peace, reconciliation and solidarity, within our own families, communities and around the world. In a speech given at the beginning of this month by Antonio Guterres, he highlighted the war, hostilities and destruction around the world, calling for an immediate action to “hear and heed the voices” of families and victims to avoid any further deaths. (https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/press-encounter/2024-03-11/secretary-generals-remarks-press-stakeout-the-beginning-of-ramadan)
Make a Plan for After Ramadan: As Ramadan comes to an end, make a plan for how I will continue to maintain the positive habits and spiritual growth I have attained during the month. This is a time to set goals for continuing the worship and self improvement even beyond Ramadan.
By increasing worship, charity, kindness, reflection, and gratitude, one can gain the spiritual benefits of this blessed month, draw closer to God and meet their goals of self improvement.
“NOT ALL OF US CAN DO GREAT THINGS. BUT WE CAN DO SMALL THINGS WITH GREAT LOVE.” — MOTHER TERESA
