Every day, we are distracted with our day-to-day routine so much that we forget to sympathize with or show mercy to those less fortunate than us. We forget to show gratitude for our blessings or share them with others. We may not even take the time to make a simple supplication (duaa) for those in need, let alone help them .The blessed month of Ramadan is a time for us to reflect on all the successes and obstacles we have encountered throughout the year. It’s also a time to appreciate what you have, and to grow closer to Allah (swt) through helping the less fortunate.
In the Holy Qur'an, Allah (swt) tells the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh):
And We have not sent you (O Muhammad) except as a mercy to the A’lamin (mankind, jinn, and all that exists). [21:107]
Through the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) life and teachings, we learn how he (pbuh) dealt with the young, the old, the rich, the poor, family, nonfamily members, and many more. Even when the Prophet (pbuh) was treated poorly, he did not seek revenge. He was loving and merciful to his enemies. His mercy sheltered all of humanity.
Among his many other teachings for mankind is that “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” That is love in every aspect; mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and more. Islam is about humanity, giving, and wanting for others what we want for ourselves even when we are also in need of help.
In another hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, whoever brings his brother out of discomfort, Allah (swt) will bring him out of the discomforts on the Day of Judgment. As we go through our journey in this world, we will all be tested. Allah (swt) states in the Holy Quran:
Surely, We will test you with a bit of fear, and hunger, and loss in wealth, lives, and fruits, and give glad tidings to those who are patient. [2:155]
All of us have been tested with hardships and could have used a helping hand during those trying times. What better feeling than having the help of our brothers and sisters? We should take the opportunity to bring comfort to those who may be struggling.
We are all brothers and sisters and we need to give from what Allah (swt) gave us. By giving, we demonstrate our gratitude to Allah (swt). As Muslims, we should not discriminate against who to help. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has superiority over an Arab, also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good actions… Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.” Allah (swt) created us as equals. In order for us to make a positive change in this world, we each have to do our part.
So, what if this Ramadan you gave a little more? What if you gave more of your time to help needy families? What if you gave more of your wealth to ensure others have their basic necessities? What if you renewed your intention and grew closer to Allah (swt) with acts of kindness and increased your prayers and supplications for yourself and all of humanity?
May Allah (swt) guide us to what is right and pleasing to Him and protect us from what is wrong and displeasing to Him…Allahuma Ameen.