Towards a Radical Ramadan

‘Subtlety of Tawhid can be explained, 

But what, if your mind is a house of idols.’ (Muhammad Iqbal) 

Ramadan is abstinence.

In desisting from desires that in excess debase us - food, sexual relations. 

And acts of disobedience that have distanced us from our creator. 

We break with the idols that have for a time satiated our nuffs and insecurities. 

Once emptied

We return to Allah. 

His book as our companion

And Salah as redemption. 

We are drawing close - Labayk Allah. 

The journey is short and will soon be over.

‘Fast with your entire soul.’

This is the month that sets up the rest of the year.

Ramadan is potential. What can our best be?

A heart that’s remedied can better serve. 

Plant that seed, even if the trumpet is about to be blown said the Prophet.

What is exertion, when it’s for His sake.

Or weariness if it’s in service to others. 

When we pass through.

Enter as many of us, together insha’Allah. 

(39:73) 

N Abida Ali