Unfortunately, Islam is often portrayed negatively across various news and media outlets. Whether it’s the tragic bombings of Al-Aqsa and the death of countless Palestinians, the senseless killings of Hazara Shia school girls in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the largest current humanitarian crisis of the world in Yemen, the ban on hijabs in France and Quebec, the ban on halal meat in France, and countless other violations against Islam and its followers, Islam is under constant attack.
It is said that the Holy Prophet (SAW) stated: “The greatest struggle (jihad) is to speak a truthful word in the presence of a tyrannical ruler”. It is the responsibility of the Muslim ummah to take a stand against the oppression faced by the people of Palestine, Yemen, Kashmir and many others at the hands of tyrants.
We are already approaching the last third and pinnacle of the Holy Month of Ramadhan. During one of the last 10 nights of this Holy Month, the Holy Qur’an was revealed to the heart of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and that night is known as the Night of Decree, or Laylatul Qadr.
The Holy Month of Ramadhan is a month of fasting, worship, serving the less fortunate, and contemplation. Abstaining from food, drink and intimacy are well known and observed by all those who fast in this Holy Month. However, equally as important is the fast of our eyes, ears, mouth, and thoughts.
It is said that the Holy Prophet (SAW) once said about the Month of Ramadan: “The month of Allah has arrived, try to free yourself. Indeed, your souls are encumbered by your deeds, so free it with repentance, and your backs are heavy from bearing the burden of your sins. You know that sins are a heavy burden. This burden is not carried by anyone except the owner of the burden himself. Your back has become bent from this costly burden. Lighten this burden”.
