Drawing Closer to Allah: The Path to Uniting the Ummah

As we welcome another Ramadan, let us remind ourselves that its essence goes beyond the dawn-to-sunset fasting. This holy month is a time for profound rejuvenation and an opportunity to reflect on its significant historical importance. Ramadan serves as a beacon of hope, strength, and inspiration, not just through abstaining from food and drink but as a period marked by deep devotion, reflection, and a relentless pursuit to draw closer to Allah (swt).

The historical significance of Ramadan, with events that have shaped the course of Islamic civilization, underscores its importance. The revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the Cave of Hira marks not just the beginning of divine guidance but signifies the start of an ideological revolution. This event alone highlights the role of Ramadan not as a mere month of ritual but as the inception of a transformation that would change the world.

[شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِيَ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْآنُ هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَاتٍ مِّنَ الْهُدَى وَالْفُرْقَانِ فَمَن شَهِدَ مِنكُمُ الشَّهْرَ فَلْيَصُمْهُ وَمَن كَانَ مَرِيضًا أَوْ عَلَى سَفَرٍ فَعِدَّةٌ مِّنْ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ يُرِيدُ اللّهُ بِكُمُ الْيُسْرَ وَلاَ يُرِيدُ بِكُمُ الْعُسْرَ وَلِتُكْمِلُواْ الْعِدَّةَ وَلِتُكَبِّرُواْ اللّهَ عَلَى مَا هَدَاكُمْ وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ]

“The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.” [2:185]

Emphasizing the essence of this verse, Ramadan is a time to reinforce our bond with Allah, which in turn, paves the way for success in all aspects of life. By drawing nearer to Allah, we not only foster growth but also unite the Ummah, enabling us to overcome challenges and achieve victories together. As we engage in this sacred period of fasting, prayer, and reflection, let us seek to strengthen our connection with Allah, understanding that this closeness is key to achieving broader successes and triumphs within the Ummah.

The early years of Islam witnessed how Ramadan became a symbol of both dedication and military engagement. The Battle of Badr, fought during Ramadan, is a testament to the extraordinary circumstances under which the nascent Muslim community, under the leadership of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), achieved a remarkable victory against the Quraysh. This victory, against all odds, was a clear indication of divine support and the strength of faith, setting a precedent for future generations.

The conquest of Mecca and significant victories like Tariq ibn Ziyad's conquest of Spain and the Mamluks' victory at Ain Jalut during Ramadan further illustrate the month's role in Islamic triumphs. These events are not just historical footnotes but exemplify the profound impact of faith and unity in achieving monumental success. They remind us that Ramadan is a time for both reflection and action, a period to renew our faith and to act upon it decisively.

In reflecting on these historical moments, we're reminded of the dynamic relationship between divine guidance and human effort. The victories achieved during Ramadan through history serve as powerful reminders of what is possible when unwavering faith meets determined action. These lessons are not confined to the past; they continue to inspire and guide us in facing contemporary challenges.

However, as we navigate our journey, it's crucial to recognize the broader implications of our faith. The pursuit of personal piety must be coupled with a commitment to collective obligations. The idea of re-establishing the Khilafah (Caliphate), as a means to govern by what Allah (swt) has revealed, speaks to the essential aspect of Islam that encompasses both individual and societal obligations. As we observe Ramadan, let us draw inspiration from the lessons of the past, recognizing the significance of this month not only in historical victories but also in its call to action in our lives today. Let us strive to fulfill our obligations to Allah (swt), engage in additional acts of worship, and also consider our role within the broader context of the Ummah. By doing so, we can hope to illuminate the paths of peace for all those suffering, bring forth light from darkness, and guide our community towards the Straight Path as Allah (swt) has intended.

Written for the Central Media Office of Hizb ut Tahrir by
Yasmin Malik