A Time for Unity

If there is one thing for certain, it is that we, as human beings, when united can achieve almost anything; the impossible becomes possible, a great example is the 14th general election (GE14) in Malaysia, where former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Bin Mohamad once again was elected. Not only was he Malaysia’s 5th but is now also our 7th Prime Minister. Through the power and unity of the people, history was made. It is when everyone unites and sets aside their differences that major changes are realised.

Another display of unity can also be observed on a global scale in the month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. It is a period where Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad during Laylat al-Qadr (night of power) – one of the nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. It is known as the most blessed of nights for all Muslims as this night brings abundant blessings and mercy; sins are forgiven and supplications are accepted.

Although we live in a world of natural abundance, grace and providence, there is a lack of empathy, compassion and solidarity among human beings. This in turn leads to struggles of hunger, poverty and scarcity throughout the globe.

By fasting during Ramadan, sentiments of empathy and compassion are heightened. Awareness of genuine connection and oneness with all human beings regardless of borders or labels are enhanced. This results not only in the greater contribution and selflessness in the service of one another, but also restores and strengthens focus, direction, balance, purpose of life and increased prayer. Ramadan synchronises Muslims worldwide to act in their best behaviour throughout the month and serving humanity with the best of intent by actions of increased charity, spreading motivational and inspirational messages to one another, and increasing voluntary work to those in need.

In Your Shoes

During the month of Ramadan, every Muslim is obligated to fast. This obligation is a means to enable a sense of oneness with all Muslims around the globe, where all Muslims will feel hunger and thirst with those who are less fortunate. Hence, they are reminded not to take what they have for granted and be grateful for what they have. As someone who has gone through Ramadan in both Sudan and Malaysia, I have learned to appreciate the beautiful climate of rainy weather during Ramadan in Malaysia as compared to the scorching desert heat in Sudan.

By living in the same shoes as everyone for the duration of fasting, Muslims grow to appreciate everything around them. They come together, in unison, at the Azan of Maghrib prayer, which signifies the end of fast for the day, enjoying a well-deserved meal with families and loved ones. Thereafter, they may then head out for the Tarawih prayers – extra prayers after the Isha prayer – to join other Muslims in a night of prayer and supplication. Only those who are unfit to fast (ill, pregnant, elderly, etc.) are excused.

Ramadan Bazaar

One of the beautiful sights that can be seen during the fasting month is the Ramadan bazaars, where crowds of people gather to buy and sell all types of foods – including exotic and seasonal food and drinks that wouldn’t normally be found easily on a typical day. This is not only an attraction to Muslims but to non-Muslims as well, both sharing space, working together and buying from one another to make the best of the month with family, friends and strangers alike. My favourite thing about the Ramadan Bazaars is the sugar cane juice, which I would stack in the fridge, waiting for the breaking of fast before indulging in a cold icy smooth sugar cane juice after a lovely meal with the family.

Act Of Giving

Throughout Ramadan, a beautiful example of the benevolent power of the crowd is Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity that is given to the poor at the end of Ramadan. This is collected from all Muslims as a requirement and distributed to the poor to join in the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr (the festival of breaking the fast).

Now imagine all the other possibilities of having a crowd come together. Changes can and will be made; new innovations would be discovered; social interaction and integration are intensified. What may seem impossible to achieve individually becomes possible collectively. As we say at Ata Plus – Wealth is Infinite when the Crowd Unites.

With that, Ata Plus would like to wish all Muslims a blessed Ramadan.

By Ibrahim Nasreldin