Issue No: 237
26th June 2015
8th Ramadhan 1435 A.H.
Salamun alaykum,
Heat wave warnings:
These days the most common comment making rounds in conversations regarding the performance of sawm-fasting- is to do with the high temperatures. It’s too hot! Oh the heat is killing!
In contrast the comments were more enjoyable in previous years when the Shahru Ramadhan occurred during the wonderful seasons of winter and autumn.
This time round, the Sharu Ramadhan is in the days where we are experiencing perhaps the hottest of the days so far this year. Forecasters warn that Britain should brace for a Mediterranean heatwave next week when temperatures could reach 30C. Tuesday, next week, could be the hottest day of the year so far.The vulnerable have been advised to take precautions and remain indoors.
Isn’t it a challenge?
In other regions such as Africa, Asia and the Arab regions the daily schedules at school or work are adjusted taking into consideration of the participation in Shahru Ramadhan. On the other hand living in our parts of the world there is very little, if any, or no change at all to the daily schedules of occupation.
With the fasting duration being almost 18 hours long we know, especially during these glorious sunny days, how difficult it is to find the energy to make the most of this blessed month of Ramadhan. One knows exactly how a long hard day of occupation whilst fasting in these moments can leave you with little or no energy to do any recommended devotion other than the fulfilment of the obligatory devotions.
Of course, not leaving out the ritual of sumptuous meals at iftari, the breaking of fast!
Divine service:
Allah SWT who is the host of the believers to the magnificent banquet of Shahru Ramadhan has set up motivation to boost His devoted servants through the heat wave as they observe sawm.
A tradition from the sixth Imam J’afar Al Sadiq a.s. states that for one observing sawm in the extreme heat and affected by thirst, 1000 angels are appointed by Allah to touch the face of one fasting and at the time of iftar convey good news of forgiveness.
What an honour for one to be pampered by none other than the angels?
Does not this touch by the angels serve to ‘fan’ the person?
Rejoice! For the ‘fanning’ by the angels is more cooling and refreshing than the best air conditioning equipment in this world.
Reflect on the above quoted infallible words of the 5th Imam. Allow them to inspire you to focus on making the best effort to reap from the Divine hospitality of Shahru Ramadhan?
After all isn’t this blessed month of Ramadhan a time for reflection? Isn’t this month a time for elevating oneself spiritually? Isn’t this a time for one to make a change, both to ourselves and those around us? Isn’t this a period to contemplate and create a positive change in our lives?
Therefore will you allow the challenge of searing heat and long hours to defeat you in the quest for attaining proximity to the Pleasure of Allah SWT? Why not strive to be from those few who enjoy this Divine Banquet by fasting truly and not get demotivated by the searing heat.?
Wa ma tawfiqi illa billah
Fazle Abbas Datoo
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Resident Alim
Wessex Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat
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