We’re decorating iftar tables with lavish and luxury arrangements while forgetting the poor and needy who struggle for a simple meal in our own neighbourhoods
Shoiab Mohmmad Bhat
There is no doubt that Ramadan is a month of blessings, mercy, and Barakah. It is the holiest month in Islam, given to the Ummah as a special gift. Allah has made fasting (Roza) obligatory (Farz) for every adult Muslim who is able to fast. This means it is not optional; it is a duty and an act of worship that we must take seriously in our lives. Across the Muslim world, observe fasting from dawn to sunset with devotion and sincerity.
But along with worship, Ramadan is not about staying hungry and thirsty. It is also a time for deep reflection. It is a month to purify our hearts, improve our character and strengthen our relationship with others. When we think deeply, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly living the real message of Ramadan?
Ramadan: A Month Of Worship And Self-Control
The main purpose of fasting is to develop Taqwa (consciousness towards the Almighty). When we stay hungry and thirsty for the sake of Allah, we learn patience, self-discipline, and gratitude. We realise the value of food, water, and the small blessings we often ignore. Fasting teaches us how it feels to be hungry, so that we may understand the pain of those who live in poverty every day.
During Ramadan, Muslims increase their prayers, recite the Qur’an, give charity, and seek forgiveness. Masjids are filled during Taraweeh prayers. Families gather for Suhoor and Iftar, creating a beautiful spiritual atmosphere. However, in the middle of these good actions, we must also check our intentions and habits.
The Reality We See Today
In many places, Ramadan has become a month of lavish Iftar parties, expensive meals, and special menus. Every day, new fruits, dishes, sweets, and drinks are prepared. Social media is flooded with pictures of decorated Iftar tables. Hotels and restaurants offer special Ramadan buffets. Some people even compete to prepare the most impressive spread.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying good food. Islam does not stop us from eating halal and healthy meals. But the question is: Has Ramadan become more about food than about fasting? Are we spending more time planning our Iftar menu than planning our prayers and charity?
While some of us are enjoying fresh fruits and delicious dishes, some families cannot afford even one simple meal a day. There are widows, orphans, daily wage workers, and poor neighbours who struggle silently. Some people break their fast with only water or a small piece of bread. Have we thought about them?
The Importance Of Neighbours In Islam
Islam gives great importance to the rights of neighbours. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) taught us the value of caring for those who live around us. He emphasised so strongly the rights of neighbours that he said Angel Jibreel (AS) continued to advise him about neighbours until he thought that a neighbour might even be given a share in one’s property as inheritance.
This shows how seriously Islam is about maintaining good relations with neighbours. A true Muslim cares about his own comfort while also remaining concerned for the well-being of others around him. If we are enjoying delicious food while our neighbour sleeps hungry, we must question ourselves.
Ramadan is the best time to practice this teaching. It is a month of mercy. If we cannot show kindness and care in Ramadan, then when will we?
Taking Practical Steps During Ramadan
Ramadan is about action along with intention. Families can make a small but meaningful plan during Ramadan to bring positive change in their surroundings. They should try to identify poor neighbours or relatives who may be struggling silently and offer support in a respectful and dignified way.
Preparing a little extra food every day at Iftar to share with others can spread love and strengthen community bonds. Families should also avoid food wastage and use their blessings wisely. These simple steps may seem small, but they can create a big difference in the lives of many people.
Ramadan Is Not About Showing Off
The real spirit of Ramadan is simplicity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to break his fast with dates and water. His lifestyle was simple. He did not promote luxury or show. Instead, he promoted humility, gratitude, and generosity.
Today, in some places, Iftar parties have become a way of showing status and wealth. People invite others to large gatherings with many dishes, sometimes wasting food. Leftovers are thrown away while the poor remain hungry. This is not the message of Ramadan.
Ramadan is not meant for celebration in the sense of luxury. It is a month of self-control and spiritual growth. When we reduce our desires and control our eating habits, we grow stronger in faith. When we spend less on ourselves and more on others, we gain greater reward from Allah.
The Power Of A Sincere Dua
Sometimes, we look for success in big achievements and material progress. But we forget the power of a sincere dua (prayer) from a needy person. It is possible that the heartfelt prayer of a poor mother, whose children are fed because of your help, may change your life. It may bring peace in your home, success in your work, and blessings in your wealth. In the Hereafter (Aakhirah), our wealth and status will not matter. What will matter are our good deeds, our intentions, and how we treated others.
Maybe one simple act of kindness in Ramadan can become a reason for our forgiveness. Maybe one sincere dua from someone we helped will protect us from difficulties in this world and in the life after death.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a month of blessings, forgiveness, and mercy. Fasting is Farz, and we must observe it with sincerity and seriousness. Along with hunger and thirst, we must develop compassion and responsibility.
Ramadan is a time to return to the simple and pure teachings of Islam. The message given by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) more than 1400 years ago is still clear: take care of your neighbours, support the poor, and live with kindness.
Let us make our Iftar simple. Let us look around and see who is in need. Let us share our blessings. Who knows? Maybe one dua from a hungry person we helped will save our world and our Aakhirah.
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