Ramadan: A holy month of turning to Allah

By, O.M Salih

The times we live in and the circumstances we go through vary greatly, each offering us a taste of sweetness or bitterness in this life. We arrive to life as tested souls, and we depart either honoured or disgraced, according to our faith and deeds. Yet, woven into human nature is an inner disposition, fitrah, to seek the Creator, especially in the darkest and most difficult moments. When all means of escape from calamity or distress are cut off, there is an instinctive surge to cry out for His help—even in those most stubborn and distant from Allah—either out of a desire for worldly salvation or to raise a white flag of submission, out of fear that life’s test may end in a way whose consequences are far from desirable. 

The Quran presents us with a parable that resonates in the personal memories of each of us: the scene of those aboard ships, calling upon Allah with sincerity for salvation, making promises to Him. Yet, when Allah’s grace brings them to safety, they did what they did.

In times of hardship, the true nature of people becomes clearer. Formalities fade, and the masks we’ve used to hide ourselves from others—and from our conscience— fall away. But the true story begins after that storm passes. It is then that more materialistic explanations for the calamity that befell us may arise, along with the best way to handle the post-crisis phase. You may find those who forget the crisis they endured, and those who deny or dismiss it.

Perhaps each of us carries a story or even stories to tell in this regard about ourselves. Since it is inherent in our nature to turn to Allah and seek refuge in Him for safety, it makes no sense to flee from our responsibilities toward Him or our devotion to Him. As long as our souls and fitrah has acknowledged—implicitly or explicitly—that all benefit and harm lie in His hands, we must feel His greatness when we resist our own desires, and feel His presence when we confront whatever stands between us and His commands.

With the arrival of the month of goodness and blessings, let us use the chance and look within ourselves and remember the covenants we made with our Creator. It is fitting for us to flee to Allah, not flee away from His commands. Likewise, it is essential to realize that there is no refuge except in Him. So let us place our trust in Him, for He is the best of protectors.

Ramadhan Mubarak!***