Abdul Muqit Chowdhury :Welcome Holy Ramzan-the month of human struggle against inherent inhuman instincts and evil activities. Welcome the month of self-restraint, patience, discipline, physicial and mental endeavour to win over beastliness and to achieve self-purification. The Holy Ramzan, ninth month of the Arabic calendar, is the cherished period of the Muslim Ummah for the infinite Mercy of Allah Rabbul Aalameen. As the most sacred month, it is the best time for all virtuous deeds. The month-long obligatory fasting is a process of training for self-purification and perfection in Islamic way of life for the believers. The purpose of observing fasting according to the Holy Quran is “…….. that ye may (learn) self-restraint.” ( Sura Baqara 2: 183) “(He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” (Sura Baqara 2: 185) Thus, fasting offers us opportunity to learn self-restraint.Restraint is a struggle against evil instincts and forces of misdeeds. It helps us to acquire human qualities and lead virtuous life for welfare – both for ourselves and the society. Self-restraint depends on patience (Sabr). Otherwise, none can abstain from having food, drink and avoid evils. Training in fasting through patience makes one a better person. This has reward from Allah. In the Hadith-e-Qudsi Allah says : “Fasting is My own and its gift in return is I Myself. Because, those who observe fasting-refrain from taking food, drink and response to the demands of instincts, – do so only for My satisfaction.” What more a human being may seek from the Creator? Rasulullah (Sm) said, “Ramzan is the month of patience and in exchange of patience is Paradise.” The month of Ramzan and Revelation of the Holy Quran coincide. It has great significance. The Holy Ramzan is the best part of the year as the Holy Quran, the ‘Guide to mankind,’ was revealed by the Creator in this month in the ‘Lailatul Qadar’ through Hazrat Muhammad (Sm), the last and the universal Messenger of mercy and peace for humanity. The month thus conveys infinite blessings for all human beings and creatures. The Quran is the Message of Truth for protecting human being from falsehood. Fasting offers us the scope to realise that Truth. The days of Allah’s mercy, forgiveness and salvation are back again. The Muslims should respond to the Divine call of Allah to enter into a period of ‘restraint’ and to lead virtuous lives for emancipation in this world and salvation in the hereafter.
