The final stretch of Ramadan stands as a holy time, distinct from the rest of the year’s months and even the preceding days of this blessed period. These last ten days, adorned with divine blessings and unparalleled virtues, hold a special place in the heart of Islam.
Let us explore the exalted virtues of these concluding days and their call to heightened acts of worship and benevolence!
The Significance of Ramadan
The arrival of the sacred month of Ramadan heralds a time of profound spiritual significance and divine blessings. It is a period marked by the revelation of the Holy Qur’an, guiding humanity with clarity and wisdom.
- Allah (SWT) said in His Great Book:
“Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority. So whoever is present this month, let them fast.” [Al-Baqarah 2:185].
The virtues of this blessed month are immeasurable, offering a chance for repentance to sinners and an opportunity for the devout to draw closer to their Creator.
Ramadan demands a transformative shift, a departure from our former selves, as it invites us to engage in increased acts of obedience and righteousness.
- As Abu Hurairah reported, The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Jannah are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Understanding the Last 10 Days of Ramadan
The last 10 days of Ramadan stand unparalleled in their spiritual significance, offering an outstanding opportunity for worship, righteous deeds, and spiritual elevation.
These nights are distinguished by divine acceptance of deeds and multiplied rewards. During these nights, Allah (SWT) selects those destined for Paradise, providing freedom from the torment of Hellfire.
Characterized by profound blessings, Muslims earnestly seek to draw nearer to Allah (SWT), engaging in numerous acts of piety and Quranic recitation.
Within these ten nights lie remarkable virtues and advantages:
Seeking Laylat al-Qadr
The Quran was revealed during this blessed night when the divine decree for the upcoming year was established. It is a night enveloped in mercy and blessings, determining destinies and blessings for the year ahead.
Allah (SWT) describes it in the Holy Quran:
“Indeed, ˹it is˺ We ˹Who˺ sent this ˹Quran˺ down on the Night of Glory. And what will make you realize what the Night of Glory is? The Night of Glory is better than a thousand months. That night, the angels and the ˹holy˺ spirit descend, by the permission of their Lord, for every ˹decreed˺ matter. It is all peace until the break of dawn.” [Al-Qadr 97: 1-5]
Narrated `Aisha: Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) used to practice I`tikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan and used to say, “Look for the Night of Qadr in the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan.” [Sahih al-Bukhari 2020].
Prophet’s Practice in the Last 10 Days
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) intensified his worship during these ten days, a devotion unparalleled throughout the year. He tightened his focus on prayer, engaged in abundant remembrance and Quranic recitation, and encouraged his family to join in prayers, striving diligently in acts of worship and obedience.
‘Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: When the last ten nights (of Ramadan) would begin, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) would keep awake at night (for prayer and devotion), awaken his family and prepare himself to be more diligent in worship. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
The Prophet’s devoted practices highlight the significance of these final ten days, as he concentrated on worship, prayers, and supplications. Muslims worldwide follow his example, devoting this time to reciting extended Quranic passages, engaging in nightly prayers at the mosque (i’tikaf), and fervently making supplications.
Benefits of Helping Needy During Ramadan
Extending a helping hand to the less fortunate during Ramadan carries immense spiritual and personal significance. Giving charity, irrespective of its scale, holds tremendous value during this sacred month, manifesting one’s sincerity and devotion to Allah (SWT).
Anas narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) affirmed:
“The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [Jami` at-Tirmidhi 663].
Moreover, the generosity of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, reached its zenith during Ramadan, marked by profound kindness and giving. These acts of kindness exemplify the essence of social solidarity intrinsic to Islam, ensuring the protection and well-being of society’s vulnerable members.
Ramadan’s charitable initiatives yield transformative effects, fostering societal change that positively impacts the lives of millions in need. Through these philanthropic projects:
- Orphans and widows find solace.
- Instilling moral values and promoting social unity within communities.
- Bolster the destitute’s economic standing, advancing healthcare and medical support for those facing adversity.
Ways to Perform Good Deeds and Donate during Ramadan
During the last 10 days of Ramadan, engaging in various acts of worship and good deeds holds immense significance.
Setting personal goals and crafting a structured plan for daily worship and beneficial changes is crucial. Among the actionable ways to multiply good deeds and earn divine satisfaction include:
- Seeking forgiveness abundantly is a blessed act recorded as commendable before Allah (SWT).
- Express love and devotion to the Messenger of Allah (SWT) in daily supplications.
- Utilize the open gates of heaven and the closed gates of hell during these nights by sincerely repenting and returning to Allah (SWT).
- Show kindness and generosity to people, especially by giving charity, as the needy eagerly awaits this holy month.
The Timing of the Last 10 Days of Ramadan 2024
Ramadan 2024 corresponds to the Gregorian date of Monday, 11 March 2024.
Therefore, it is anticipated that the last 10 days of Ramadan 2024 will commence on the evening of Saturday, 30 March 2024, and conclude on the evening of Tuesday, 9 April 2024.
However, it’s crucial to emphasize that these dates for the last 10 days of Ramadan 2024 are subject to change depending on the sighting of the moon, which determines the start and end of Ramadan.
Join our charitable work this Ramadan!
Allah (SWT) said in His Noble Book:
“Take from their wealth ˹O Prophet˺ charity to purify and bless them, and pray for them—surely your prayer is a source of comfort for them. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” [Al-Tawbah 9:103].
In this blessed month of Ramadan, let us heed the divine call to charity and compassion, and there’s no better way to fulfill this than by aiding our displaced brothers and sisters residing in refugee camps.
Their dire circumstances, marked by scarcity of necessities like food and healthcare, beckoned for our support.
Your donations to “SEMA” will directly impact the lives of refugees, empowering them through various programs like:
- Constructing and renovating hospitals.
- Providing mobile medical clinics.
- Safeguarding mental health.
- Bolstering community nutrition initiatives.
Join us in making a difference this Ramadan by sharing your blessings and extending your hand of kindness to brothers in need!
FAQ
What is the significance of the last 10 days of Ramadan in Islam?
The last 10 days of Ramadan are highly significant in Islam due to their immense spiritual value. These days are a time of intensified worship, seeking Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power), as they hold exceptional blessings, culminating in the increased chances of divine acceptance of prayers and deeds.
How can I involve my family and children in charitable activities?
Engaging family and children in charitable activities can be a rewarding experience during Ramadan. Activities might include:
Organizing food drives.
Creating care packages for the less fortunate.
Visiting older people.
Participating in charity events together.
Can I donate Zakat and Sadaqah during the last 10 days of Ramadan?
Yes, donating Zakat and Sadaqah during the last 10 days of Ramadan is encouraged and holds significant merit. These acts of charity during this blessed period have amplified rewards. Muslims are urged to donate generously, as this is a time when their donations can profoundly impact the lives of those in need.
How can I maximize the impact of my donations during this time?
To maximize the impact of donations during the last 10 days of Ramadan, consider focusing on impactful charitable projects that address urgent needs. Supporting reputable organizations or charities that have transparent initiatives for aiding refugees, providing medical care, and addressing nutritional needs can ensure that your donations make a meaningful difference.
Read More:
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