[Slideshare] raffles girlssch lessonsaboutlife-madrasah-ramadhan (8-aug-2012)

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012))

Presentation by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailfor ”Ramadhan Talk – and IFTAR “ organize

by Raffles Girls School - SingaporeWednesday , 8 August 2012 –

19 Ramadhan 1433 5 pm – 6.45pm @ Raffles Girls School,

20 Anderson Road

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST MERCIFUL.

I am very much aware that I am primarily addressing Muslim I am very much aware that I am primarily addressing Muslim

audience, who are fasting in this blessed month of Ramadhan.audience, who are fasting in this blessed month of Ramadhan.

We are here to seek further bestowals from Allah SWT, especially We are here to seek further bestowals from Allah SWT, especially

to benefit from knowledge which we may have already possess, as to benefit from knowledge which we may have already possess, as

well as to gain further beneficial knowledge from Allah SWT.well as to gain further beneficial knowledge from Allah SWT.

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

ROB-BANAA- AN-FA’-NAA -BI-MAA- ‘AL-LAM-TA-NAA

O our Lord! Make us to benefit from what You have taught us.







ROB-BI –’AL-LIM- NAL- LA-DzEE- YAN-FA- ‘U-NA

O Lord! Teach us whatever that is beneficial for us.







ROB-BI –FAQ-QIH-NAA -WA -FAQ-QIH – AH-LA-NAA

O Lord! Grant upon us profound understanding,

(as also grant upon) our family members..







WA –QO-RAA-BAA-TIN-LA-NAA -FEE -DEE-NI-NAA

And also to those in the Faith who are close to us.







MA- ’A -AH-LIL- QUTw-RI- UN-THA - WA DzA-KAR

Amongst fellow citizens, the female and the male.






Indeed, before we can derive further benefit and bestowals, we Indeed, before we can derive further benefit and bestowals, we

must first recognize and be thankfully appreciative of every favors must first recognize and be thankfully appreciative of every favors

given to us by Allah SWT. For, we are not merely to be servants of given to us by Allah SWT. For, we are not merely to be servants of

Allah as Muslims (Allah as Muslims (who submit and obeywho submit and obey), but most importantly as ), but most importantly as

““GRATEFUL servants of AllahGRATEFUL servants of Allah” - ” -


““Praise belongs to Praise belongs to Allah who guided us to His praise, Allah who guided us to His praise, and and placed us placed us

among the people of praiseamong the people of praise, that , that we might be among the thankful we might be among the thankful

for His beneficence, and that for His beneficence, and that He might recompense us He might recompense us for that with for that with

the recompense of the good-doers! “the recompense of the good-doers! “

“ “ And praise belongs to Allah who And praise belongs to Allah who showed favour to us showed favour to us through His through His

religion, singled us out for His creed, and religion, singled us out for His creed, and directed us directed us onto the onto the

roads of His beneficence, in order roads of His beneficence, in order that through His kindness that through His kindness we we

might travel upon them to might travel upon them to His good pleasureHis good pleasure, a praise which He , a praise which He

will accept from us and through which will accept from us and through which He will be pleased He will be pleased with us! “with us! “

All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

““And praise belongs to Allah who appointed among those roads And praise belongs to Allah who appointed among those roads

His month His month ((SHAHRAHUSHAHRAHU), ),

the month of the month of Ramadan Ramadan ((SHAHR-AR-RAMADHANSHAHR-AR-RAMADHAN), ),

the month of the month of fasting fasting ((SHAHR-AS-SIYAMSHAHR-AS-SIYAM))

the month of the month of submission submission ((SHAHR-AL-ISLAMSHAHR-AL-ISLAM), … “), … “

“ … “ … the month of the month of puritypurity ( (SHAHR-AT-TOHURSHAHR-AT-TOHUR))

the month of putting to test (the month of putting to test (SHAHR-AL-TAM-SHAHR-AL-TAM-HHEEEESwSw))

the month of the month of standing in prayerstanding in prayer ( (SHAR-AL-QIYAAMSHAR-AL-QIYAAM))

(month) in which the (month) in which the Qur'an was sent down Qur'an was sent down as guidance to the as guidance to the

people, and as clear signs of the Guidance and the Separator! “people, and as clear signs of the Guidance and the Separator! “


““And remember! your Lord caused to be declared (publicly): And remember! your Lord caused to be declared (publicly):

"If ye are grateful ("If ye are grateful (SHAKAR-TUMSHAKAR-TUM), I will add more (favours) ), I will add more (favours)

unto you; but if ye show ingratitude (unto you; but if ye show ingratitude (KAFAR-TUMKAFAR-TUM), truly My ), truly My

punishment is terrible indeed." punishment is terrible indeed."

((Qur’an: Ibrahim:14: 7Qur’an: Ibrahim:14: 7))



YOU HAVE BEEN CREATED AS A HUMAN BEING.YOU HAVE BEEN CREATED AS A HUMAN BEING.

YOU HAVE PARENTS WHO LOVE AND CARE.YOU HAVE PARENTS WHO LOVE AND CARE.

BROUGHT UP AS MUSLIM WITHIN A FAMILY ENVIRONMENT. BROUGHT UP AS MUSLIM WITHIN A FAMILY ENVIRONMENT.

STILL GIVEN LEASE OF LIFE, GOOD HEALTH AND YOUTH.STILL GIVEN LEASE OF LIFE, GOOD HEALTH AND YOUTH.

OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY IN GOOD SCHOOL.OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY IN GOOD SCHOOL.

HAVE GOOD TEACHERS AND CARE-GIVER.HAVE GOOD TEACHERS AND CARE-GIVER.

LIVING IN PEACEFUL PROSPEROUS COUNTRY.LIVING IN PEACEFUL PROSPEROUS COUNTRY.

HAVE GOOD FRIENDS.HAVE GOOD FRIENDS.

When we can appreciate, even just one of, these as favours, When we can appreciate, even just one of, these as favours,

((NI’MAHNI’MAH) then we must strive to become a ) then we must strive to become a GRATEFULGRATEFUL person. person.


““O MANKIND! Worship (serve) your Sustainer, who has O MANKIND! Worship (serve) your Sustainer, who has

created you and those who lived before you, so that you created you and those who lived before you, so that you

might remain conscious of Him (might remain conscious of Him (TAQWATAQWA)“)“

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 21Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 21))

““The foremost in religion is the acknowledgement of Him (Allah)”The foremost in religion is the acknowledgement of Him (Allah)”

Mankind’s existence is not accidental as though without purpose,

but humans by nature are capable of knowing meanings and purpose to

his life and his special place in nature.

Unlike animals, man’s reasoning faculty is summoned to reflect upon

the higher philosophical questions as to the meaning and purpose of life

which leads to the cognition of the existence of the Divine.

There is already and innate predisposition in him towards wanting to

serve (worship) someone or something.

Imam ‘Ali bin Abi Tolib r.a. said:Imam ‘Ali bin Abi Tolib r.a. said:

Those who claimed to be “atheists” even are in reality serving or

worshipping their own Selves (their desires).

““Have you seen Have you seen he who has taken as his god his [own] desirehe who has taken as his god his [own] desire, and Allah , and Allah

has sent him astray due to knowledge and has set a seal upon his has sent him astray due to knowledge and has set a seal upon his

hearing and his heart and put over his vision a veil? So who will guide hearing and his heart and put over his vision a veil? So who will guide

him after Allah? him after Allah? Then will you not be remindedThen will you not be reminded?”?”

((Qur’an: Jathiya: 45: 24Qur’an: Jathiya: 45: 24))


““AND WORSHIP (serve) Allah [alone], and do not ascribe AND WORSHIP (serve) Allah [alone], and do not ascribe

divinity (SHIRK), divinity (SHIRK), in any way, to others beside Him. in any way, to others beside Him.

And do good unto your parents,”And do good unto your parents,”

((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 36Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 36))


And We have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents:

in travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in years

twain was his weaning: (hear the command) "Show gratitude

to Me and to thy parents: to Me is (thy final) Goal.”

(Qur’an: Luqman: 31: 14)


“ “Allah’s pleasure (acceptance) is in the pleasure (acceptance) of Allah’s pleasure (acceptance) is in the pleasure (acceptance) of

your parents (towards you), and Allah’s displeasure is in the your parents (towards you), and Allah’s displeasure is in the

displeasure of your parents (towards you).”displeasure of your parents (towards you).”(Hadith reported in Subulus Salam narrated from

the Prophet s.a.w. by ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr ibn ‘Ash r.a.)

““O YOU who have attained to faith! Ward off from O YOU who have attained to faith! Ward off from

yourselves (i.eyourselves (i.e. save yourself) and those who are . save yourself) and those who are

close to you (AHLIKUM) that fire [of the hereafter] close to you (AHLIKUM) that fire [of the hereafter]

whose fuel is human beings and stones: [lording] whose fuel is human beings and stones: [lording]

over it are angelic powers awesome [and] severe, over it are angelic powers awesome [and] severe,

who do not disobey Allah in whatever He has who do not disobey Allah in whatever He has

commanded them, but [always] do what they are commanded them, but [always] do what they are

bidden to do.”bidden to do.”

((Qur’an: Tahrim: 66: 6Qur’an: Tahrim: 66: 6))


“Every child is born in a state of Fitrah (pure innocence);

it is the parent that will make him to be a Jew, or a Christian,

or a pagan (Majusi).”

(Hadith of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.)


““From amongst the rights of a children upon their parents are, From amongst the rights of a children upon their parents are,

that they be instilled (to be educated by them) with that they be instilled (to be educated by them) with ADABADAB and and

to be given a good name.” to be given a good name.”

((Hadith of the Prophet s.a.w. reported by Baihaqy Hadith of the Prophet s.a.w. reported by Baihaqy

from Ibnu ‘Abbas r.afrom Ibnu ‘Abbas r.a.).)


Reality of the SelfReality of the Self

THE WORLDTHE WORLD

TIMETIME

SELFSELFBODYBODY

TONGUETONGUE

MINDMINDDESIREDESIRE

HEARTHEART

Initial traits Initial traits ::[1] Appetite, [1] Appetite, [2] Emotion still link to needs,[2] Emotion still link to needs,[3] curiosity, memory,[3] curiosity, memory,[4] imitative, see, listen & do,[4] imitative, see, listen & do,[5] application of[5] application ofbasic sensory feelingsbasic sensory feelings

NAFS al-AMMARAH NAFS al-AMMARAH (Commanding self)(Commanding self)

Link to various Link to various QuwwahQuwwah (powers): (powers):

[1] [1] shahwiyyashahwiyya (desires)(desires)[2] [2] ghadabiyyaghadabiyya (anger)(anger)[3] [3] WahmiyahWahmiyah (imaginative)(imaginative)[4][4] ‘aqliyya‘aqliyya (thoughts)(thoughts)

Importance of linguistics to thoughts:


Reality of the SelfReality of the Self

THE WORLDTHE WORLD

TIMETIME

SELFSELFBODYBODY

TONGUETONGUE

MINDMINDDESIREDESIRE

HEARTHEART

Initial traits Initial traits ::[1] Appetite, [1] Appetite, [2] Emotion still link to needs,[2] Emotion still link to needs,[3] curiosity, memory,[3] curiosity, memory,[4] imitative, see, listen & do,[4] imitative, see, listen & do,[5] application of[5] application ofbasic sensory feelingsbasic sensory feelings

NAFS al-AMMARAH NAFS al-AMMARAH (Commanding self)(Commanding self)

Link to various Link to various QuwwahQuwwah (powers): (powers):

[1] [1] shahwiyyashahwiyya (desires)(desires)[2] [2] ghadabiyyaghadabiyya (anger)(anger)[3] [3] WahmiyahWahmiyah (imaginative)(imaginative)[4][4] ‘aqliyya‘aqliyya (thoughts)(thoughts)

Importance of linguistics to thoughts:


““He (Allah) has created man: He has imparted He (Allah) has created man: He has imparted unto him articulate thought and speech.” (Q:55: 3-5)unto him articulate thought and speech.” (Q:55: 3-5)

Islam: to submit the entire self (body, tongue, heart and Mind) – Freeing it from desire which needs to always be guided to the Will of Allah. THE WORLDTHE WORLD

TIMETIME

SELFSELFBODY

TONGUE

MINDDESIRE

HEART

Obedience to Parents and teachersObedience to Parents and teachersBeginning of education:[1] Tarbiyya pertains to training of the soul still attached to desires, etc.

Teacher/Educator:[1] Parent[2] Teacher

Although ultimate isKnowledge, (boththeoretical and practical) – initial disciplining, rote learning, memorization, etc. may be crucial.

PARENTSPARENTSTEACHERSTEACHERS

KNOWLEDGEKNOWLEDGE

Relationship with the Parents and TeacherRelationship with the Parents and Teacher



And they will say: "And they will say: "All praise is due to Allah, who All praise is due to Allah, who has guided us unto thishas guided us unto this; for we would certainly not ; for we would certainly not have found the right path unless Allah had guided have found the right path unless Allah had guided us! Indeed, our Sustainer's Messengers have told us! Indeed, our Sustainer's Messengers have told us the truth!“us the truth!“

((Qur’an: A’-raf: 7: 43Qur’an: A’-raf: 7: 43))

The key to The key to

succeed in this test as well succeed in this test as well

as to deserve achieving as to deserve achieving

further increase of further increase of

bestowals from Allah.bestowals from Allah.

yet how does one become yet how does one become

grateful? What are the grateful? What are the

important criteria?important criteria?

1.1. Acknowledge and extol praises of Acknowledge and extol praises of

the true giver, Allah Who alone is the true giver, Allah Who alone is

God, the Bestower of all favours.God, the Bestower of all favours.

2.2. Learn the value of what is given, Learn the value of what is given,

do not take for granted any of do not take for granted any of

these favours.these favours.

3.3. Reciprocate with gratitude. Reciprocate with gratitude.

Utilize what is given in Utilize what is given in

accordance to what may please accordance to what may please

the Giver (i.e. do not abuse the the Giver (i.e. do not abuse the

gift), so as not to cause His wrath gift), so as not to cause His wrath

to befall us.to befall us.

CRITERIACRITERIA



MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION WHICH EVERYONE WILL HAVE TO ASKMOST IMPORTANT QUESTION WHICH EVERYONE WILL HAVE TO ASK


ISLAMIC WORLDVIEWISLAMIC WORLDVIEW

“ “ Hallowed be He (Allah) in whose hand all dominion rests, Hallowed be He (Allah) in whose hand all dominion rests,

since He has the power to will anything: He Who created since He has the power to will anything: He Who created

death as well as life, death as well as life, so that He might put you to a test [and so that He might put you to a test [and

thus show] which of you is best in conduct, thus show] which of you is best in conduct, andand [make you [make you

realize that] He (Allah) alone is almighty, truly forgiving.”realize that] He (Allah) alone is almighty, truly forgiving.”

((Qur’an: Surah al-Mulk: 67: 1-2Qur’an: Surah al-Mulk: 67: 1-2))


“ “ Verily! We create man from a drop of mingled sperm, in Verily! We create man from a drop of mingled sperm, in

order to test him; so We gave him (gifts of) hearing, order to test him; so We gave him (gifts of) hearing,

sight. Verily! We have shown him the Way, sight. Verily! We have shown him the Way, whether he be whether he be

grateful grateful ((SHAAKIRANSHAAKIRAN)) or ungrateful or ungrateful ((KAFUURAKAFUURA) i.e. ) i.e.

disbelieving (rests on his will).”disbelieving (rests on his will).”

((Qur’an: Al-Insan:76: 2-3Qur’an: Al-Insan:76: 2-3))

34All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

““The example of [this] worldly life The example of [this] worldly life is but like rain which We is but like rain which We

have sent down from the sky that the plants of the earth have sent down from the sky that the plants of the earth

absorb - [those] from which men and livestock eat - until, absorb - [those] from which men and livestock eat - until,

when the earth has taken on its adornment and is beautified when the earth has taken on its adornment and is beautified

and its people suppose that they have capability over it, there and its people suppose that they have capability over it, there

comes to it Our command by night or by day, and comes to it Our command by night or by day, and We make it We make it

as a harvest, as if it had not flourished yesterdayas a harvest, as if it had not flourished yesterday. Thus do We . Thus do We

explain in detail the signs for a people who give thought.”explain in detail the signs for a people who give thought.”

((Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 24Qur’an: Yunus: 10: 24))


““Halia ini tanam-tanaman, Halia ini tanam-tanaman, Ke barat juga akan rebahnya, Ke barat juga akan rebahnya,

Dunia ini pinjam-pinjaman, Dunia ini pinjam-pinjaman, Ke akhirat juga akan sudahnya”Ke akhirat juga akan sudahnya”

““Ginger is a plant that grows in clumps, Ginger is a plant that grows in clumps, Towards the west it’s shoot will turn, Towards the west it’s shoot will turn,

Life in this world is but on borrowed times, Life in this world is but on borrowed times, For the Hereafter is where all must eternally return”For the Hereafter is where all must eternally return”


English translationEnglish translation

What do you call : “A person What do you call : “A person who does not know who does not know where he is now at, where he is now at,

where he came from and, where he is going to?”where he came from and, where he is going to?”

What about : “A person who may know where he is now, What about : “A person who may know where he is now, but does but does

not knownot know where he was from and where he is suppose to be going where he was from and where he is suppose to be going

to?”to?”

What about : “A person who may know where he is now, he knows What about : “A person who may know where he is now, he knows

where was from, where was from, but he does not know but he does not know he is going to?”he is going to?”

Finally, what do you call: “A person who knows where he was from, Finally, what do you call: “A person who knows where he was from,

where is now at, and where he is supposed to be going to?”where is now at, and where he is supposed to be going to?”



A DETAILED MAP OR NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS.A DETAILED MAP OR NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS.

As Muslims, we are provided by Allah with the Qur’an and As-Sunnah.As Muslims, we are provided by Allah with the Qur’an and As-Sunnah.

A COMPASS – SEXTANT AND NAVIGATIONAL TOOLSA COMPASS – SEXTANT AND NAVIGATIONAL TOOLS

Religious classes,Religious classes, khutbah, ceramah, naseehah khutbah, ceramah, naseehah (counsel and advices); (counsel and advices);

constantly checking our position viv-a-vis our destination; always to constantly checking our position viv-a-vis our destination; always to

be striving to better ourselves; correcting ourselves to reform or be striving to better ourselves; correcting ourselves to reform or

return to the path whenever we deviate from the return to the path whenever we deviate from the SHARI’AHSHARI’AH ( (AD-AD-

DEEN AL-ISLAMDEEN AL-ISLAM).).



A MANUAL – LOG BOOK OF PREVIOUS SUCCESSFUL TRAVELLERS A MANUAL – LOG BOOK OF PREVIOUS SUCCESSFUL TRAVELLERS

This is to follow the well-established traditional path of those who went This is to follow the well-established traditional path of those who went

before us – viz. the before us – viz. the MADZAAHIBMADZAAHIB : school of thoughts transmitted : school of thoughts transmitted

through an unbroken chain of teachers-scholars, linked back to the through an unbroken chain of teachers-scholars, linked back to the

Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w., collectively scrutinized and check by Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w., collectively scrutinized and check by

the competent Islamic scholars of the community.the competent Islamic scholars of the community.

A CORRECT ATTITUDE, ADEQUATE KNOWLEDGE - PREPAREDNESS A CORRECT ATTITUDE, ADEQUATE KNOWLEDGE - PREPAREDNESS

Our education and training that ought to develop us In terms of our Our education and training that ought to develop us In terms of our

capability for capability for ‘AMAL ‘AMAL (Islam – practical), (Islam – practical), IIMANIIMAN (Faith and conviction), (Faith and conviction),

IHSANIHSAN (Righteousness) , (Righteousness) , IIKHKHLASLAS (Sincerity), many other levels until (Sincerity), many other levels until

TAQWATAQWA (Consciousness and fear of transgressing the command of (Consciousness and fear of transgressing the command of

Allah). Allah). All Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)


BE ACCOMPANIED BY KNOWLEDGABLE AND EXPERIENCED GUIDEBE ACCOMPANIED BY KNOWLEDGABLE AND EXPERIENCED GUIDE

Importance of obeying the guidance of the parents and learned teachers Importance of obeying the guidance of the parents and learned teachers

( ( MURABBI’ MURABBI’ – sustainer, nurturer, educator, nourisher,) – who may be – sustainer, nurturer, educator, nourisher,) – who may be

also the elders, husbands and leaders (those who may influence your also the elders, husbands and leaders (those who may influence your

development), etc.development), etc.

FELLOW TRAVELLERSFELLOW TRAVELLERS

In keeping with Islam’s commandment to be with community (In keeping with Islam’s commandment to be with community (UMMAHUMMAH), ),

beginning with the important family institution, strengthening beginning with the important family institution, strengthening

silatur-rahmi silatur-rahmi (bond of kith and kinship), to be vigilant and cautious (bond of kith and kinship), to be vigilant and cautious

of whom we take as intimate acquaintance and life-partners.of whom we take as intimate acquaintance and life-partners.



PROVISION FOR THE JOURNEYPROVISION FOR THE JOURNEY

Utilizing our capabilities (Utilizing our capabilities (IKHTIYARIKHTIYAR), seeking the goodness and whatever ), seeking the goodness and whatever

Allah may bestow while in this life the livelihood (Allah may bestow while in this life the livelihood (RIZQRIZQ ) through Halal ) through Halal

means, and utilizing them as an act of serving Allah by being good. A means, and utilizing them as an act of serving Allah by being good. A

good person is one who is most beneficial towards others. good person is one who is most beneficial towards others.

WHAT ‘TREASURE’ TO BE BROUGHT BACK TO THE FINAL DESTINATIONWHAT ‘TREASURE’ TO BE BROUGHT BACK TO THE FINAL DESTINATION

Surely, there must be a reason for our being put on this life journey. Thus Surely, there must be a reason for our being put on this life journey. Thus

Islam teaches us what are we suppose to seek in this world which we Islam teaches us what are we suppose to seek in this world which we

can bring back; what can benefit us when we cross-over the threshold can bring back; what can benefit us when we cross-over the threshold

of death, into the intermediary world of the grave, and inevitably be of death, into the intermediary world of the grave, and inevitably be

made to be accountable on the Day of Judgment.made to be accountable on the Day of Judgment.



““Seek instead, by means of what Allah has granted Seek instead, by means of what Allah has granted

thee, [the good of] the life to comethee, [the good of] the life to come, without forgetting, , without forgetting,

withal, thine own [rightful] share in this world; and do withal, thine own [rightful] share in this world; and do

good [unto others] as Allah has done good unto thee; good [unto others] as Allah has done good unto thee;

and and seek not to spread corruption on earthseek not to spread corruption on earth: for, verily, : for, verily,

Allah does not love the spreaders of corruption!”Allah does not love the spreaders of corruption!”

((Qur’an: Qasas: 28: 77Qur’an: Qasas: 28: 77))


Lessons regarding our life from


““O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is ordained for you as it O YOU who have attained to faith! Fasting is ordained for you as it

was ordained for those before you, so that you might learn self-was ordained for those before you, so that you might learn self-

restraint (being conscious and fear Allah - restraint (being conscious and fear Allah - TAQWATAQWA):”):”



““Allah wills that you shall have ease, and does not will you to suffer Allah wills that you shall have ease, and does not will you to suffer

hardship; but [He desires] that you complete the number [of days required], hardship; but [He desires] that you complete the number [of days required],

and and that you extol Allah for His having guided you arightthat you extol Allah for His having guided you aright, and that , and that you you

render your thanksrender your thanks [unto Him] – [unto Him] – TASH-KURUN – (SHAKUR)TASH-KURUN – (SHAKUR).”.”




This list is not exhaustive, but only my personal reflection This list is not exhaustive, but only my personal reflection as to what Ramadhan teaches me as a Muslimas to what Ramadhan teaches me as a Muslim

TA-’AHTA-’AH (Obedience) and (Obedience) and ADABADAB (Decorum) (Decorum)


Reminder of our covenant (Reminder of our covenant (SHAHADAHTAINSHAHADAHTAIN); and that we have to ); and that we have to

“walk the talk.”“walk the talk.”

A Muslim is one who obeys Allah and His Messenger – not privately A Muslim is one who obeys Allah and His Messenger – not privately

but if need be openly, to dare to show who we are without being but if need be openly, to dare to show who we are without being

apologetic.apologetic.

A Muslim is one who has A Muslim is one who has ADABADAB, most importantly to place Allah and , most importantly to place Allah and

the Prophet’s command above all else. In Ramadhan, many aspects the Prophet’s command above all else. In Ramadhan, many aspects

of our life has to be re-orientated and put in its proper order.of our life has to be re-orientated and put in its proper order.

NIYYATNIYYAT WAL IKHLASW WAL IKHLASW (Intention and Sincerity)(Intention and Sincerity)


Ramadhan teaches us that any act (Ramadhan teaches us that any act (‘AMAL‘AMAL), to be regarded as acts of ), to be regarded as acts of

merit acceptable to Allah, it must be with a resolve and sincere merit acceptable to Allah, it must be with a resolve and sincere

intention for Allah’s sake.intention for Allah’s sake.

Verbalizing to oneself, with knowledge and clear purpose of what Verbalizing to oneself, with knowledge and clear purpose of what

we are about to do, is indeed important towards forming strong we are about to do, is indeed important towards forming strong

resolve and determination towards success of any endeavor.resolve and determination towards success of any endeavor.

Despite the obvious uncertainty, yet by relying upon our faith Despite the obvious uncertainty, yet by relying upon our faith

((IIMANIIMAN) in Allah, Whom we seek to please and Who alone can grant ) in Allah, Whom we seek to please and Who alone can grant

us the us the TAUFIQTAUFIQ (success) we strive and face the ordeal of fasting. It is (success) we strive and face the ordeal of fasting. It is

after all, done as a test of our Faith and faithfulness.after all, done as a test of our Faith and faithfulness.

SAHURSAHUR (Preparation – physical & spiritual)(Preparation – physical & spiritual)


This teaches us the necessity for preparation before embarking upon This teaches us the necessity for preparation before embarking upon

whatever cause. Preparations are both physical and spiritual. The whatever cause. Preparations are both physical and spiritual. The

time for such is best made especially during occasions whence other time for such is best made especially during occasions whence other

people may be resting. Especially we are taught of the blessed time people may be resting. Especially we are taught of the blessed time

for spiritual preparation seeking Divine help is through making for spiritual preparation seeking Divine help is through making DU’A DU’A

(supplication) and (supplication) and MUNAJATMUNAJAT (intimate whispering) just before (intimate whispering) just before

Dawn.Dawn.

Knowledge of this is not merely taught theoretically, but in Knowledge of this is not merely taught theoretically, but in

Ramadhan we are made to learn and experience it practically.Ramadhan we are made to learn and experience it practically.

And the sheer ease which many of us have experienced, boost our And the sheer ease which many of us have experienced, boost our

confidence that we can indeed do it even after Ramadhan.confidence that we can indeed do it even after Ramadhan.

IMSAKIMSAK (Abstention)(Abstention)


Essentially, fasting is “Essentially, fasting is “IMSAKIMSAK ” – abstaining from everything which ” – abstaining from everything which

Allah has forbidden us to do. Therefore in requires us to take charge Allah has forbidden us to do. Therefore in requires us to take charge

and be in control over our desires.and be in control over our desires.

Thus, to be truly Thus, to be truly MUSLIMMUSLIM, we have to have the power to rein in and , we have to have the power to rein in and

discipline our base desires – submitting our will to the will of Allah.discipline our base desires – submitting our will to the will of Allah.

Many people do not know how to say “No!” to evil and wrongdoing. Many people do not know how to say “No!” to evil and wrongdoing.

Fasting in Ramadhan, effectively teaches us that in fact Fasting in Ramadhan, effectively teaches us that in fact WE CAN DO WE CAN DO

IT!IT! Even to curtail our basic needs which, normally outside fasting, Even to curtail our basic needs which, normally outside fasting,

are ‘Halal’. Ramadhan is the proof.are ‘Halal’. Ramadhan is the proof.

And the fact is, for us Muslims what Allah has forbidden (And the fact is, for us Muslims what Allah has forbidden (HARAMHARAM) )

are very few as compared to what He made lawful (are very few as compared to what He made lawful (HALALHALAL).).

SWOLAH WA QIYYAM SWOLAH WA QIYYAM (Worship – personal night devotion)(Worship – personal night devotion)


This being the Pillar ofour religion (This being the Pillar ofour religion (IMAD-DU ADDEENIMAD-DU ADDEEN), is very much ), is very much

enhanced during Ramadhan, more than any other month.enhanced during Ramadhan, more than any other month.

Congregational prayer in mosques, should become the norm in the Congregational prayer in mosques, should become the norm in the

community and ought to be reasserted. community and ought to be reasserted.

Night worship and spiritual retreat are revived and be inculcated Night worship and spiritual retreat are revived and be inculcated

throughout the month such that it can become ingrained as a throughout the month such that it can become ingrained as a

community activity, that Muslims are to be the most worshipful community activity, that Muslims are to be the most worshipful

people on earth – “people on earth – “they bow and prostrate and their faces glow with they bow and prostrate and their faces glow with

traces of (wudhu’ and) prostration”traces of (wudhu’ and) prostration”

TILAWAH - TADABBUR TILAWAH - TADABBUR (Companionship with Al-Qur’an(Companionship with Al-Qur’an))


In Ramadhan without fail, the Qur’an take centre stage. Muslims In Ramadhan without fail, the Qur’an take centre stage. Muslims

would inevitably be made to listen and experience the recitations of would inevitably be made to listen and experience the recitations of

it in it in SWOLAH TARAWIH, TILAWAH SWOLAH TARAWIH, TILAWAH and and TADBBURTADBBUR, from , from

accomplished Qur’an reciters (accomplished Qur’an reciters (MUQRI’ MUQRI’ / / QARIQARI) and even by ) and even by HUFFAZHUFFAZ

(Those who memorize the Qur’an in its entirety). With satellite (Those who memorize the Qur’an in its entirety). With satellite

technology, the prayer in technology, the prayer in Masjidil Haram Masjidil Haram (Makkah) is beamed (Makkah) is beamed

worldwide.worldwide.

This inspires many to focus upon embarking upon reciting and This inspires many to focus upon embarking upon reciting and

reading of portions of the Qur’an as a daily routine.reading of portions of the Qur’an as a daily routine.

Lectures, tadzkirah, commentaries by scholars would instill Lectures, tadzkirah, commentaries by scholars would instill

realization that the Qur’an is indeed the book of Guidance.realization that the Qur’an is indeed the book of Guidance.

MUJAAHADAHMUJAAHADAH (Striving with utmost - exertion)(Striving with utmost - exertion)


Contrary to what some may think as though life ought to become Contrary to what some may think as though life ought to become

relaxed, Ramadhan is the month in which Muslims learn the meaning relaxed, Ramadhan is the month in which Muslims learn the meaning

of of JIHAADJIHAAD (striving with utmost in the way of Allah) which focus upon (striving with utmost in the way of Allah) which focus upon

intense exertion (exhaustion)towards conquering our ego and desires.intense exertion (exhaustion)towards conquering our ego and desires.

Its day spent in Fasting does not excuse the Muslims from their daily Its day spent in Fasting does not excuse the Muslims from their daily

occupation, while their nights’ rest are shortened to increase their occupation, while their nights’ rest are shortened to increase their

devotions and prayers. devotions and prayers.

Indeed, this was the kind of life which the companions of the Prophet Indeed, this was the kind of life which the companions of the Prophet

lived daily – a diligent “worker-warrior (lived daily – a diligent “worker-warrior (MUJAHIDMUJAHID)” by day and an )” by day and an

“ascetic-devotee (“ascetic-devotee (ZAHID- ‘AABIDZAHID- ‘AABID)” by night.)” by night.

TAQWATAQWA (Reverential fear of transgression)(Reverential fear of transgression)


The reason given by Allah as to why we fast is to teach us The reason given by Allah as to why we fast is to teach us TAQWATAQWA – –

the highest virtue which every Muslim must strive for.the highest virtue which every Muslim must strive for.

The essential meaning of The essential meaning of TAQWATAQWA is to safeguard ourselves from the is to safeguard ourselves from the

wrath of Allah through our being ever consciousness of Allah’s Who wrath of Allah through our being ever consciousness of Allah’s Who

sees and ever aware of our state; with sense of awe, reverential fear sees and ever aware of our state; with sense of awe, reverential fear

of Allah’s presence in our life and being ashame of our shortcomings.of Allah’s presence in our life and being ashame of our shortcomings.

Indeed, Indeed, TAQWATAQWA is the unmatched motivation for a truly ethical and is the unmatched motivation for a truly ethical and

good person.good person.

Although, to really become a Although, to really become a MUTTAQEENMUTTAQEEN as our accomplished as our accomplished

disposition (disposition (MAQOMMAQOM –station) is not easy, yet in Ramadhan, we get –station) is not easy, yet in Ramadhan, we get

to taste and experience this spiritual state.to taste and experience this spiritual state.

USRAH WAL JAMA’AH USRAH WAL JAMA’AH (Importance of Family and Congregation)(Importance of Family and Congregation)


Ramadhan brings back family living, where many activities like Ramadhan brings back family living, where many activities like

partaking of meals and praying in partaking of meals and praying in Jama’ahJama’ah at home is revived. at home is revived.

Many may have disregarded this important family way of life that Many may have disregarded this important family way of life that

gives real value and quality to our life. When we realize and gives real value and quality to our life. When we realize and

experience how truly priceless it is, hopefully we will wish to sustain experience how truly priceless it is, hopefully we will wish to sustain

this life-style which many, in todays fast-pace and almost maddening this life-style which many, in todays fast-pace and almost maddening

existence, have lost.existence, have lost.

Indeed, “Indeed, “we may be in a rat race, but we must never become ratswe may be in a rat race, but we must never become rats.” .”

Human dignity through family and community living, must be Human dignity through family and community living, must be

cherished and upheld. cherished and upheld.

RAHMAH WAL IHSAN RAHMAH WAL IHSAN (Mercy and Compassion)(Mercy and Compassion)


One of the important lessons of Ramadhan is its teaching us mercy One of the important lessons of Ramadhan is its teaching us mercy

and compassion. We who experience what it is like to be thirsty and and compassion. We who experience what it is like to be thirsty and

hungry, should become more caring for those lacking in means to hungry, should become more caring for those lacking in means to

sustain themselves and their family. sustain themselves and their family.

Thus it is in this month, the increase in deeds of charity, the sharing Thus it is in this month, the increase in deeds of charity, the sharing

of meal and the giving of of meal and the giving of ZAKATUL-FITRAZAKATUL-FITRA, are meant to acclimatize , are meant to acclimatize

us into becoming a community who cares for others, mobilized to us into becoming a community who cares for others, mobilized to

spread mercy and compassion towards all.spread mercy and compassion towards all.

This is also accompanied with realization of our own need for Allah’s This is also accompanied with realization of our own need for Allah’s

forgiveness for our sins, which in Islam we are taught, is also by forgiveness for our sins, which in Islam we are taught, is also by

being merciful and forgiving towards others, ourselves.being merciful and forgiving towards others, ourselves.

TASHAKKUR TASHAKKUR (Gratefulness)(Gratefulness)


To become grateful, one must be taught to appreciate the favours To become grateful, one must be taught to appreciate the favours

NI’MATNI’MAT , given. , given.

Unfortunate we have dulled our senses through excesses and habits, Unfortunate we have dulled our senses through excesses and habits,

making us oblivious to even the great pleasure which we are given making us oblivious to even the great pleasure which we are given

so abundantly. Thus amongst the lesson of Ramadhan, through so abundantly. Thus amongst the lesson of Ramadhan, through

temporary deprivation, we can restore and enhanced our senses and temporary deprivation, we can restore and enhanced our senses and

sensibility thereby to re-experience those favours. sensibility thereby to re-experience those favours.

Through this month too, it ought to make us realize how excessive Through this month too, it ought to make us realize how excessive

our previous life-style has been. To be grateful is not to over-indulge our previous life-style has been. To be grateful is not to over-indulge

but to share those bounties and favours from Allah, with others in but to share those bounties and favours from Allah, with others in

our life. For being prudent must also not lead us to miserly.our life. For being prudent must also not lead us to miserly.

TAUBAH WA ISTIGHFAR TAUBAH WA ISTIGHFAR (Repentance and seeking forgiveness)(Repentance and seeking forgiveness)


The most important message of Islam is the Message of Mercy and The most important message of Islam is the Message of Mercy and

Forgiveness of Allah. This is through mankind’s returning in Forgiveness of Allah. This is through mankind’s returning in

repentance (repentance (TAUBAHTAUBAH) and seeking forgiveness of Allah () and seeking forgiveness of Allah (ISTIGHFARISTIGHFAR))

The door is never close for anyone, until the end of the world The door is never close for anyone, until the end of the world

((QIYYAMAHQIYYAMAH) or till when he experience the moment of death ) or till when he experience the moment of death

((SAKARAT-AL-MAUTSAKARAT-AL-MAUT).).

In Ramadhan especially, this message is greatly enhanced and In Ramadhan especially, this message is greatly enhanced and

opportunity to do so permeates throughout its period and occasion.opportunity to do so permeates throughout its period and occasion.

And in this month, one can even get to taste the indescribable And in this month, one can even get to taste the indescribable

feeling of Allah’s forgiveness and acceptance of our repentance feeling of Allah’s forgiveness and acceptance of our repentance

((TAUBAHTAUBAH). ).

‘‘AMR AL-MA’RUF NAH-YUL MUNKAR AMR AL-MA’RUF NAH-YUL MUNKAR (Enjoining good and forbid evil)(Enjoining good and forbid evil)


Al-ISLAMAl-ISLAM is not meant to be a ‘personal-individual’ religion to be is not meant to be a ‘personal-individual’ religion to be

only practiced privately. It is more a community living (welfare type only practiced privately. It is more a community living (welfare type

society) which places duty and responsibility collectively upon every society) which places duty and responsibility collectively upon every

of its member. They enjoy personal privileges by virtue of of its member. They enjoy personal privileges by virtue of

discharging their social obligation too, which are meant to safeguard discharging their social obligation too, which are meant to safeguard

the survival of the whole community.the survival of the whole community.

Thus ‘Thus ‘enjoining good and forbidding evilenjoining good and forbidding evil’ is an essential pillar which ’ is an essential pillar which

Muslims uphold and practice – through practical prevention, advise, Muslims uphold and practice – through practical prevention, advise,

exhortations, encouragement, etc. to one another, which keep exhortations, encouragement, etc. to one another, which keep

every members in check from deviation and waywardness.every members in check from deviation and waywardness.

‘‘AMR AL-MA’RUF NAH-YUL MUNKAR AMR AL-MA’RUF NAH-YUL MUNKAR (Enjoining good and forbid evil)(Enjoining good and forbid evil)


In In RamadhanRamadhan, the vibrancy of this spirit of collective preservation is , the vibrancy of this spirit of collective preservation is

even more pronounced. The most effective way to correcting others even more pronounced. The most effective way to correcting others

is by showing by our own example. And this would only be effective is by showing by our own example. And this would only be effective

if demonstrated by the collective majority. if demonstrated by the collective majority.

One of the most effective approach to reform society is :One of the most effective approach to reform society is :

“ “It is when good people are actively seen and conspicuously It is when good people are actively seen and conspicuously

projected, in their goodness and their doing good as a norm projected, in their goodness and their doing good as a norm

that bad people will shy away.” – ( zhulkeflee ) that bad people will shy away.” – ( zhulkeflee )

And this is possible because to every Muslim, what is permissible And this is possible because to every Muslim, what is permissible

((HALALHALAL) is already clear, and what is forbidden () is already clear, and what is forbidden (HARAMHARAM) is also ) is also

clear.clear.

EXCERPTS FROM FARDHU-’AIN COURSEEXCERPTS FROM FARDHU-’AIN COURSEAll Rights Reserved© Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2012)

““And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way

((UMMATAN WASOTANUMMATAN WASOTAN) [i.e. justly balanced], so that [with your ) [i.e. justly balanced], so that [with your

lives] you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind lives] you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind

((SHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAASSHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAAS) , and the Messenger as a witness over ) , and the Messenger as a witness over

you.“you.“

((Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143))


““And when And when Allah guides a single person (to Islam), Allah guides a single person (to Islam),

through youthrough you (with your sincere effort), (the reward) for (with your sincere effort), (the reward) for

you is better than (if you are given) the whole world you is better than (if you are given) the whole world

and whatever it contains.”and whatever it contains.”

((Hadith of the Prophet Hadith of the Prophet ))

“Whomsoever that Allah wishes for him goodness, He will

make him a FAQIH (learned) in matters of the

religion(Deen); and for everything there is a pillar, and the

pillar of this religion is AL-FIQH – (the profound

understanding of the Deen); a learned scholar (of the Deen)

is more difficult upon satan than a thousand worshippers.”

((Reported by Bukhary and MuslimReported by Bukhary and Muslim))


““Among the believers Among the believers are men who have [always] been true are men who have [always] been true

to what they have vowed before Allahto what they have vowed before Allah: Of them some have : Of them some have

fulfilled their obligations (with their lives), and some of them fulfilled their obligations (with their lives), and some of them

are still waiting (for its fulfillment) without having changed are still waiting (for its fulfillment) without having changed

[their resolve] in the least.”[their resolve] in the least.”

((Qur’an: al-Ahzab: 33: 23Qur’an: al-Ahzab: 33: 23))


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