As Muslims prepare for Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk (scheduled to begin Sept. 2), I am reminded of the advice of Prophet Mohammad, peace be upon him when he stated: "There is an abode in paradise prepared for those who are polite in their speech, provide food for the needy, fast frequently and stand in prayer when other people are asleep" (Al-Thirmidi. Hadith 367).
This simple hadith provides for Muslims a framework by which they can gain the ultimate reward -- namely to worship through fasting and prayer and through civic engagement that is relating with people in politeness and fulfilling one's duty towards the needy in society.
What I find intriguing in this hadith is the fact that the Prophet is not referring to the mandatory fasting during Ramadan (required by sharia of all physically able Muslims from the age of puberty), but he is referring to the practice of optional fasting to be observed frequently.
The fact that someone will bare the hardships of fasting without the obligation to do so is a mark of a person who is conscious of God and is immersed in the remembrance of the Creator. Such persons are bound to be humble and diligent in keeping in check their desires.
To be fasting frequently is to be close to the Merciful Creator and to be conscious of the suffering of the hungry. Fasting also polishes one's self-control, thereby developing discipline. Fasting heightens one's sensitivity to the spiritual self and therefore by choosing to fast frequently one is acutely increasing the likelihood of improving and cultivating a strong relationship with the Creator.
Praying while the world sleeps is also a time of the least distractions, thereby encouraging deep reflection. In the wee hours of the night when one is totally immersed in worship, sacrificing rest and slumber, the believer develops an exclusive and a special bond with God.
The communication with God while in prostration during the night was the practice of all Prophets and we know that they were the best of humans. Therefore, by following their example we also reap the spiritual, psychological and physical benefits of worship. Furthermore, we increase the probability of developing an intimate relationship with the Merciful Creator. This in turn helps sustain us in times of stress and difficulty. The second part of this hadith instructs us on being engaged in the community while encouraging extra worship above and beyond what is required by shariah.
To be promised paradise for being polite in speech to people is a beautiful way to encourage civil discourse, positive communications and good relations between people.
Prophet Mohammad then instructs us to provide food for the needy the hungry and the underprivileged. By this act of giving and sharing we create a community where people are sensitive and responsive to the needs of others. To have access to food is one of the most fundamental rights in Islam and by making this a duty for Muslims to fulfil, Islam lays the ground for a nurturing and just society.
Shahina Siddiqui of Winnipeg is president of the Islamic Social Services Association of Canada.
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