Holy Ramadan Guide - Ezsoftech.com

Du’a (prayer) in the month of RamadanThe month of Ramadan is an opportunity givenby the gracious Creator for His servants tocome close to Him, seek forgiveness for theirsins, and fulfillment of their needs. In the HolyQur’an, amidst an important discussion on themonth of Ramadan, the following ayat (verse), whichapparently has no direct connection with Ramadan,is included: And when my servants ask youabout me, then surely I am near. I answerthe prayer of the supplicant when he callsupon me, so respond to me, and believe inme, so that they may be led right. (2:186)Commentators agree that this is the most poignantof all the verses on the Divine-human connection.The whole verse is based on the singular first personpronoun, which is repeated seven (7) times. It is aconfirmation of the close relationship between manand His creator, and an assurance that he will be listenedto when he calls upon Him.That such a verse should be included among the ayats discussing the importance of Ramadan, andsome of its rules (see 2:183-187), are an indication of the important role of Du’a in the month ofRamadan. Abstaining from fulfillment of physical desires stimulates an increase in spirituality, andcreates an inclination for prayers and worship. Believers feel close to Allah, and Allah reminds themthat He too is close, and will answer their prayers. The nights of Ramadan are spent in prayers andsupplications. Even those believers, who normally do not have much time for prayers, try to do soduring this month. This is because of the emphasis on the sanctity of the month, the promise of multipliedrewards, as well as the assurance of a favorable response. Says the Holy Prophet Muhammad(pbuh): . . . do supplicate with your hands raised . . . as these are the best of times,during which the Almighty looks at His servants with mercy, answers if they supplicate,responds if they call, grants if they ask, and accepts if they plead . . . (Prophet’ssermon welcoming the month of Ramadan).The best thing a believer can pray for during this month is forgiveness for his past sins. Many of theDu’as special to the month of Ramadan plead for forgiveness of the huge burden of sins which mancarries. Ramadan is a glorious chance given to him to have his sins erased, and gain a higher positionin the eyes of Allah. So many people are forgiven in this month that it is only the unfortunateswho are deprived. Says the Prophet in the same sermon: Indeed, miserable is he who isdeprived of Allah’s forgiveness in this great month. Other things to pray for include fulfillmentof needs, removal of afflictions, and success in the hereafter.islamicoccasions.com presents Holy Ramadan Guide - 4