Ramadan, which will most likely start on August 1 this year, has many special characteristics in Saudi Arabia. There is a reduction of duty hours which makes it easier for one to concentrate on the true meaning of the month and expatriates working in the Kingdom can take advantage of being close to Makkah and Madina to get more benefit from the holy month. The month of Ramadan is one of the greatest blessings of Allah upon the Ummah of His beloved Prophet (peace be upon him). Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is also when the Holy Qur'an was sent down from heaven to guide Muslims. In the Qur'an it is stated: “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong).” (Suratul Baqara, 2:185). This is an important month for Muslims around the world, especially at a time when we are constantly struggling to keep up our remembrance of Allah due to the complications of life in this modern age. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) said “O people! The month of Allah has come with His mercies and blessings. This is the month that is the best of all months in the eyes of Allah. Its days are the best of days, its nights are the best of nights, its hours are the best of hours''. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said “He who spends Lailat Al-Qadr in prayer with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim). The deed in this night is better than the rewards of deeds of 1,000 months. The Night of Power is also mentioned in the Holy Qur'an where it is declared “Verily, We have sent it (this Qur'an) down in the night of Al-Qadr (Decree). The night of Power is better than a thousand months. The night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Ruh (Jibrîl) by Allah's Permission with all Decrees. (All night), there is Peace (and Goodness from Allah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.” (97:1-5) In conclusion, the blessings of this great month of fasting are too many to be counted. Besides the countless spiritual rewards to be gained, there are great physical and mental rewards as well. The month of Ramadan teaches man the principle of sincere love. It equips man with a creative sense of hope. It indoctrinates man in patience, self-assurance and self-control. It is an effective lesson in willpower. Fasting also provides man with a transparent self, a clear mind and a light body. It shows man a new way of wise savings and sound budgeting. It originates in man the real spirit of social belonging, unity and brotherhood, of equality before Allah as well as before the law. Ramadan strengthens Taqwa, which is the faith in Allah. So may Allah give you the strength to gain the wealth of blessings from this holy month of Ramadan. Aameen. __
