Observing the holy month of Ramzan
The observance of the holy month of Ramzan has started off in Bangladesh from today. This country has the third largest Muslim population in the world and, therefore, there is no need to explain how or why this month is greeted so enthusiastically by the overwhelming number of its people. Ramzan is a time for self renewal, for practicing the core values and teachings of Islam as have been mandated in the Holy Koran and reflected in the practice of Prophet Mohammad (SM).
The prominent feature of Ramadan is self denial. All good Muslims who observe Ramzan usually try to deep cleanse their selves in this period. They deny themselves completely the pleasures of eating and drinking from before sunrise till dusk of the following day. They can be expected to tame all their passions specially the base ones all throughout the month. They would be kind and considerate in their conduct and found in deep prayers in their homes and mosques. They will be also seen carrying out their obligations of charity to needy people in keeping with one of the major commandments of Islam which is achieving social justice or showing due sensitivity to the needs of the poor or underprivileged in society. Thus, at the end of Ramzan, the believers may be expected to be purified in all respects. They gain very commendably in character which Almighty Allah want from them for their success in this life and the afterlife.
But it is unfortunate that all is not piety, really attained, in all cases during Ramzan. There are some who take it like a seasonal regimentation. They wade back into lustful or sinful ways as soon as the month is over. In that case, the whole purpose of Ramzan is defeated. For all who observe this month rigorously and become truly better human beings at the end of it, they should singularly aim to retain the goodness or purity thus attained all through the rest of the year. If they can do this, then not only they will be successful in the eyes of their Creator but become real assets for societys well-being which is what the Almighty wants from us.
In many homes, one may witness scenes of festivity during Ramzan as the fasting ones in day time more than make up for staying away from food after sunset with gluttonous eating habits of rich dishes. Clearly, this also is the complete antithesis of what Ramzan would like to inculcate among Muslims which is that they should opt for frugality and moderation in gratifying their cravings of any kind even outside the forbidden hours.
