Suhoor…Are You Awake for the Blessings?

One of the distinct memories I have growing up is, at the time of suhoor, my mom coming into my bedroom and stuffing apples and dates and water into my mouth before the time for Fajr would come in.

I remember thinking I could just tough it out for the day without having anything to eat before Fajr. But she would always quote this hadith, “Have suhoor, because in it there is blessing!“

What are some of the blessings of suhoor?

The first is that you’re listening to an advice of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him); you are expressing your love for him by waking up early to listen to him instead of just sleeping away.

Check the rest of this episode for two more hidden blessings in the video above.

Source: Brother AbdelRahman Murphy

- aboutislam.net

Forgive & Seize the Days of Forgiveness

 

Ramadan is the month in which Allah SWT blesses His people with infinite bounty and showers His blessings more than at any other time throughout the year. During this month, all Muslims seek forgiveness and repentance.

Ramadan offers us an opportunity to seek Allah SWT’s forgiveness and to wash off our sins.

Importance of Forgiveness in Islam

There are various verses of the Quran and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasizing the concept of repentance from sins by seeking forgiveness from Allah . Allah SWT says:

“Seek forgiveness from your Lord and repent to Him, [and] He will let you enjoy a good provision for a specified term and give every doer of favor his favor.

But if you turn away, then indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a great Day” [Quran, Surah Hud, 11:3].

In this verse, Allah SWT commands people to seek forgiveness and repent. The effort has dual benefits.

First, it shows that a believer is conscious of Allah (SWT). Secondly, as is evident from the above-quoted ayah, Allah SWT will grant blessings and favors to those who repent and seek forgiveness.

Allah SWT says,

“But indeed, I am the Perpetual Forgiver of whoever repents and believes and does righteousness and then continues in guidance.” [Verse 82; Surah Taha]

Allah SWT talks about one of His qualities, which is His ability to forgive. As Muslims, we must never despair or lose hope about forgiveness, which is one of the qualities of Allah SWT.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said in one hadith,

Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“If anyone continually asks pardon, Allah will appoint for him a way out of every distress, and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide for him from where he did not reckon”

[Book 8, Hadith 1513; Abu Dawood].

Here the hadith gives the benefit or virtue of seeking forgiveness.

If someone is always seeking forgiveness from Allah SWT, then He makes their life easier by removing all the troubles and distress they are going through in their lives while also providing sustenance to them.

Seeking forgiveness will help in improving their life and relationship with Allah SWT, after cleansing past sins.

In Ramadan, Muslims can strive to do the following:

Offer Regular Prayer

In Ramadan or any other month, offering regular prayers is actually the best way to seek forgiveness from Allah SWT.

All Muslims should ensure that they are offering their obligatory prayers regularly. After every prayer, it’s advised to supplicate to Allah SWT for pardon and mercy.

Muslims must never miss a prayer, especially in the blessed month of Ramadan, to make sure that no prayer goes without seeking forgiveness.

Attend Night Prayer

Qiyam prayers (optional night prayers) are special Ramadan-specific prayers. They give us an additional chance to praise Allah SWT and seek forgiveness and mercy from Him.

Qiyam prayers are a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which carries great reward and is greatly valued in the court of Allah SWT as well. Make an effort to offer Qiyam every night after the obligatory prayer of Isha.

This can be done at home or in congregation. Specifically ask for forgiveness afterwards to ensure Allah will forgive you.

Remembrance Before Asking for Forgiveness

It is imperative for a Muslim to lay a foundation of praising and worshiping Allah SWT in order to seek His pardon.

Tasbeeh (remembrance) is a form of supplication, praise, and worship that can be exercised throughout the day.

It can be done to praise Allah SWT, afterwards supplicating by seeking forgiveness.

Tasbeeh of forgiveness is another option by which a Muslim can ensure that they are seeking forgiveness from Allah SWT throughout the fasts during the holy month of Ramadan.

Read and Learn Quran

The other great way to seek forgiveness from Allah SWT is to read and recite the Holy Quran along with its meanings.

Reading the Holy Quran regularly will help us get closer to it, understand it, and most importantly, start implementing the instructions in our day-to-day lives.

This good habit automatically restricts many wrongdoings. This will also help in developing a strong connection with the Quran.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“The best among you (Muslims) are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.” [Sahih Bukhari, Hadih 545, Book 61]

Improving or Perfecting Ablution

Improving and perfecting ablution increases the chances of acceptance of all kinds of prayers. It results in a better connection with Allah SWT.

Fasting

Anyone who fasts in Ramadan with true spirit, faith, and with the firm belief to seek forgiveness and reward from Allah SWT, then Allah SWT forgives all their sins.

Thankfulness

Thankfulness means, for example, eating food or wearing clothes and thanking Allah SWT with firm belief that it is only in Allah SWT’s control to give good food and clothes, and we have no power to do it to ourselves.

Understanding this and being thankful for His blessings will make Allah SWT happy that His people have belief in Him and look forward to His blessings whenever they need anything in their lives.

The Bottom Line

A Muslim must be involved in acts of virtue throughout Ramadan.

We must also seek forgiveness from other people if we have ever hurt or harmed them, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

If we forgive others, gain their forgiveness, and seek Allah SWT’s forgiveness as well, then it is very likely that Allah SWT will forgive us so that we may enter Jannah with the believers.

After every action, ask Allah to forgive you for all the past sins.

May Allah SWT grant us forgiveness and make this world and the hereafter a better place for everyone.

This article is from our archives.

- aboutislam.net

The Triangle of Bliss: Ramadan, Quran and Taqwa

 

Would you like to get the very best out of Ramadan this year?

A better understanding of these important elements may help you achieve your goal.

Allah informs us that Ramadan is the blessed month in which the Quran was revealed and fasting prescribed.

{The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, 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…} (2:185)

We understand from the above verse what Quran is all about: “as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and a criterion (between right and wrong)…”

We also understand that it is in Ramadan that fasting was prescribed. But what is the purpose of fasting?

{O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may become righteous (achieveTaqwa).} (2:183)

So we note that the importance of the month of Ramadan is the advent of the revelation of the Quran and it is thorough understanding followed by action, the commandments in this blessed book, that we are to achieve Taqwa (God consciousness!)

{(It is) a Quran in Arabic, without any crookedness (therein): in order that they may become righteous (achieve Taqwa).} (39:28)

We see a very important triangle of bliss here: fasting in Ramadan, the Quran and Taqwa. This heavenly connection is possible at its highest level only in Ramadan!

One may not obtain full aspiration unless the three are interwoven together.

So, one who is interested to achieve taqwa may ask themselves: “Can I achieve this without the Quran?”

The answer is clear no.

The next question is “What if I incorporate the Quran into my life. Can I achieveTaqwa without fasting?” the answer is most likely no. And obviously the best time to fast is in the month of Ramadan.

Allah gives us clear signs how to achieve Taqwa.

{Thus does Allah make clear His Signs to men: that they may learn Taqwa(God consciousness).} (2:187)

Why Should We be so Concerned about Taqwa?

Let us use some practical examples:

George works as an actor and is a very kind, honest and decent man. He harms no one and in fact he helps others as much as he can. He adheres to no religion. People who know him, really love and respect him.

George has a few girlfriends with whom he has premarital relationships. In fact women are so attracted to his loving kind behavior and good looks, they often offer themselves to him for companionship and pleasure. He accepts when he wishes and they all seem to be winners. But are they?

Now let us look at a similar scenario with Ahmad. He has similar nature, but with one very distinct difference! He is very God conscious and will not approach any sinful activities. He has Taqwa.

Will God reward the good deeds George is doing?

We do understand that Allah rewards those who do good deeds in this world but as for the Hereafter, He informs us:

{Allah does only accept from those who are righteous (Muttaqeen).} (5:27)

Muttaqeen are those who have achieved Taqwa and are righteous by having a clear understanding of Allah’s commandments in the Quran and adhering to them. They are more concerned about the Hereafter than this world.

{That home of the Hereafter we shall give to those who intend not high-handedness or mischief on earth: and the end is (best) for the Righteous (Muttaqeen)} (28:83)

The ones who have Taqwa consider the life of this world a short journey. They do their best to prepare the proper provision for the Hereafter.

But what is that provision?

{…and take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best of provisions isTaqwa (righteousness). So fear Me, O you that are wise.} (2:197)

When Ali ibn abi Talib was asked to define Taqwa he said:

“Taqwa is to fear the Most Exalted One, work upon His revelation, become content and ascetic and always prepare for the departure from this life.”

Taqwa is an elevated level of consciousness of the Creator in all its aspects. Fearing and loving Him and having the highest hope in Him above all His creation are among the fruits of Taqwa. When a person reaches this stage, he/she is considered a righteous person. It is this stage that gains the servant the most honorable position with Allah.

{…Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is (he/she who is) the most righteous of you…} (49:13)

Attainment of the station of a Muttaqi (one who has Taqwa) is a life-long journey and not limited to the month of Ramadan only. However the most potent time of the year is Ramadan which facilitates this great opportunity. The heart and the soul is most in-tune with the Quran – the words of Allah. The soul is receptive and the mind flushes out the forbidden and impure thoughts, if Ramadan rules were observed righteously and with sincerity.

How Do I Reach this Station?

The number one element is the desire to get closer to Allah and intense longing to be in a higher spiritual station than the one we are in.

There is no book, guide, teacher or course than can help a person reach this station better than the Quran. Of course a teacher of the Quran can help explain some verses and backgrounds. A tafseer (interpretation) book can shed more light on the depth of the verses and historical background on events. Yet, most of the words of the Quran speak to the heart of the seeker without any interpretation or teacher.

Many Muslims try to read the entire Quran in the month of Ramadan. Some do so without even understanding the Arabic meaning and some try to complete the Quran so fast that they pay little attention to the spiritual depth of this Holy Book.

It is better to read one chapter with full understanding than reading the entire Quran for the sake of completing a task!

It is also highly recommended to memorize as many chapters of the Quran as possible and recite them during the daily prayers. Repetition with understanding the meaning will continue nurturing the longing soul and bring him closer to understanding Allah’s message to humankind.

One understands that fasting is not limited to abstaining from food only, but having Taqwa is the key.

Taqwa means consciousness, awe or fear of Allah, which inspires a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for actions which please Allah and stay away from those actions which displease and anger Him.

About Raya Shokatfard

Raya Shokatfard holds an MA in Journalism/Mass Communications and an M.A.D. in TV journalism. BA in Communication and BA in Islamic Studies. She has been Islamic propagator in the U.S and Egypt for many years and academic lecturer, writer, international presenter, consultant, foreign correspondent. She can be reached at: raya4peace@gmail.com

- aboutislam.net

THE HUMAN BEING WAS CREATED WEAK

 God says: "God would make the burden light for you, for the human being was created weak." (Quran 4:28)

In a state of weakness we were first created, and in a state of weakness we end our lives.  During the intervening years, we face one state of weakness after another, in both body and spirit. 

Our bodies suffer from sickness.  Even those of us who are blessed with robust health must ultimately succumb to the weakness of old age.  Our spirits are plagued with heedlessness.  Our minds can be touched with insanity.  We can see how weakness surrounds our existence from all sides.  Our own incapacity causes us to appreciate the greatness and the might of our Creator all the more. 

There is one form of weakness that we cannot hope to conceal.  It makes our deficiency and dependency all too obvious.  It is sickness – that state of being that strikes a person’s body and brings it down.  It takes its toll on the spirit as well, cutting down its arrogance and excessive pride.  All a person’s imagined power is knocked right off its foundations, causing a person to return to his original state of being, that state that is so much denied and pushed out of mind by our hubris and pride, and by our false notion of our own strength.  Sickness makes us get a taste of our weak origins all over again. 

Sickness is debilitating.  It exhausts the body.  Yet, for some people, it is a source of strength, fortifying their faith in God, restoring them to the natural relationship that they should have with their Lord.  Sickness is a wakeup call for some people, dispelling vanity and false desire from the heart, pushing aside vain passions and lusts. 

Sickness causes their hearts to become penitent, hastening to seek forgiveness.  They rush to the door of God’s mercy, that door which forever remains open, but which we are so prone to lose sight of during our years of health and prosperity.  Sickness can make those who used to shun that door most haughtily become the most ardent petitioners at its steps. 

It is no shame for a worshipper to expose his weakness at times of illness and submit himself humbly to God, beseeching God for his needs.  This is something that God loves from His servants. 

What is shameful is for that same person - who had so humbly petitioned his Lord at his time of weakness and need - to then shrug aside all of that humility once he is restored to health and deny the blessings of God.  It is a shame for him to return to his former haughtiness as if sickness had never touched him and as if he had never supplicated to his Lord for relief.  Such a person is indeed shameful and despicable. 

God says: "And when affliction touches a person, he calls on Us, whether lying on his side or sitting or standing; but when We remove his affliction from him, he passes on as though he had never called on Us on account of an affliction that touched him; thus that which they do is made fair-seeming to the extravagant." (Quran 10:12)

Few are those who recall at times of strength that there have been and will be times of weakness, times of incapacity.  A few short hours of prosperity is all that it takes to make us forget.  It takes just a bit of wealth to make us haughty. 

When misfortune falls, it is so fast that a person becomes desperate and dismayed, suddenly returning to earnest supplication and impatient for a return to prosperity.  Then, when God answers his prayer, he just as quickly turns his back and returns to his former state of heedlessness and disregard. 

Some people advocate false ideas, and push those ideas with such force that we cannot doubt the strength of their convictions for the falsehoods that they espouse.  Often, it is revealed how flimsy their convictions really are, how much they were based on personal desire and self-deception. 

We see this when that person is stricken with a fearful illness, his heart turns hard to those false ideas and seeks to return to its pure, natural state of faith in God and belief in His message.  All his false arguments and sophistries fall straight away. 

History attests to this fact.  There are many examples of people who were not mere followers of false ideologies, but leading proponents of those ideas, philosophers and intellectuals.  Their intelligence and sophistication had misguided them and cast them into confusion.  However, being touched by a frightful illness dispelled from their minds the vagaries of falsehood, and turned their hearts to God and to His mercy. 

Guidance in affliction is better than misguidance in prosperity. - islamreligion.com

The valid intention of fasting

 

All perfect praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad  is His Slave and Messenger.

 

Buying Sahoor and preparing it imply the intention of fasting the next day. Consequently, your fasting is valid, and the fact that you slept and did not eat Sahoor does not invalidate it.

Ibn Taymiyyah  said, “The intention of fasting in Ramadan, according to the consensus of scholars, does not require one to say, ‘I am fasting tomorrow’; rather, it is enough to have the intention in his heart. The intention follows knowledge. When one knows what he wants to do, he must intend it. Consequently, when the Muslim knows that Ramadan will be from the next day and he is among those required to fast, he naturally intends fasting. Likewise, when he knows that ‘Eid will be the next day, he (by default) will intend - that night - not to fast.”

 

Allah Knows best.

 

 

by: The Fatwa Center at Islamweb

Is Fasting Really About Feeling for the Poor?

 

Towards a Correct Understanding of Fasting

Many people interpret the wisdom behind fasting as follows:

When the rich suffer from hunger and thirst, they feel the agony of the poor and, thus, they rush to spend on them in charity.

In the same vein, when the poor see the rich as suffering from hunger and thirst during their fast, they comfort themselves that they are equals in one way or another; a matter which gives the poor some sort of “psychological relief”.

A superficial understanding of fasting

Indeed, this rudimentary understanding is very strange; it depicts the whole issue as if the poor gloat over the rich’s grief and rejoice at their misfortune.

Or, it depicts it as if the poor have eventually found themselves as equal to the rich as regards one thing even if it were sharing hunger, thirst and suffering!

To me, this is both superficial and weird as all the above revolve only around “the stomach” be it full or empty! Hereby, I am not denying the possibility of such wisdom and/or benefits. However, I am only against the centrality of such limited interpretations and the widespread of such materialistic understanding of a super great act of worship such as fasting.

I believe that because Muslims have been tried by misunderstanding the wisdom behind the acts of worship, they have undergone many calamities and suffered from catastrophic disasters.

To understand this and to get an idea of what I am alluding to, let us take a glance at the position of Muslims in today’s world.

An overall look reveals that Muslims are being humiliated by others in so many places on earth even within their own territories and borders at the hands of their own rulers.

The degree of enmity between some neighboring Muslim countries and vicinal peoples is beyond imagination.

The constant severe attacks against their intellect, dignity and even existence as well as being part of their enemies’ plans made them subject to the will of their rulers who are mostly tyrants and oppressors. All they can do is to protest and raise their voices with objections to these injustices then they return back to the normal life they are leading.

Nothing is better to describe them than the saying of the great earlier historian Abu Shamah who said that such people are, “only keen on fulfilling the needs of their stomachs and sexual desires!”

All these made many Muslims as humiliated in every aspect of life. Were they to hang on to understanding the real essence of Islam and the real wisdom behind its prescribed acts of worship, certainly they would find their lost dignity, respect and victory in the present life as well as the Hereafter!

Why do we fast, then?

Verily, fasting was ordained on Muslims to save them from such afflictions and trials. But, many of us have forgotten the Covenant of Allah; therefore, He made us forget our own souls until we misinterpreted the meaning of one of the greatest acts of worship, namely fasting, and started to understand it to be only revolving around food and drink.

In so doing, we eat less to make our bodies healthier; we give in charity to support the poor; we eat together to be in tune with one another. Notwithstanding, we fast the whole month of Ramadan but our bodies get no healthier; the poor get no real support except for some food and the like; our hearts do not agree. Even in case any of these meanings are really fulfilled, as soon as the month elapses, they are gone as well leaving nothing of their traces in the soul, the body or the society.

If we do justice to fasting, we would view it – as it is ordained on Muslims – as a pure act of worship and obedience between the servant and his Lord practiced by both the destitute and the rich to gain the pleasure of Allah. They practice it together during the month of Ramadan and individually in other than Ramadan. They practice fasting not to live the meanings that revolve around food and drinking only, be it through giving out or abstention, but, to rid themselves together of the rein of what follows:

• They rid themselves of the rein of food, drinking, lusts, and every drawback.
• They rid themselves of the rein of fear from anyone or anything other than Allah, the Lord of the whole world.
• They rid themselves of any form of hypocrisy as no one can be aware of the status of the fasting person except Allah the Almighty Who sees everyone and everything, Glory be His.

The real essence of fasting

Consequently, the essential meaning of fasting can be explained as follows. It is the emancipation of the human soul from all forms of slavery: from the slavery of life and its requirements; from the slavery of the body and its needs; from the slavery of the soul and its lusts; from the slavery of whims; from the slavery of fear with all its forms until the human soul finds perfect freedom, the freedom of existence, freedom of will, and freedom of action.

To me, emancipation of the Muslim soul is the objective of fasting which is ordained by Allah the Almighty be it obligatory or voluntary. Through experiencing these meanings of fasting, a Muslim should realize that Allah made him successor upon the earth to establish the right, to judge between people with justice and to refrain from being humiliated by anyone or for anything whatsoever as Allah honored him by declaring him a vicegerent to steward the earth.

Allah the Almighty guided us to an aspect of this meaning as He made fasting equal to the emancipation of slaves in three of His Ordainments in the Ever-Glorious Qur’an.

First, He, Glory be His, ordained that anyone who kills a faithful person by mistake should set a believing human being free and should hand the blood money to the victim’s family. If one cannot afford of freeing a slave, {then he shall instead fast two consecutive months as a repentance ordained by God!} (An-Nisa’ 4:92)

Second, He, Glory be His, made those who sinfully estrange themselves from their wives with the mere pronouncement: “You are prohibited to me for marital relations as is my own mother’s backside,” then they retreat what they have said, they must free a bondservant before they and their wives touch each other in intimacy,

{But for one who [commits this offense] yet cannot find such means of atonement, then he shall instead fast two consecutive months, before they touch each other in intimacy…} (Al-Mujadilah 58:4)

Third, He, Glory be His, made the expiation for one’s oath setting a slave free, {But if one of you does not find the means to make an offering, then fasting three days…} (Al-Baqarah 2:196)

 
Indeed, one should look deeply into this… why did Allah the Almighty ordain that anyone who commits any of these three offenses should set a believing slave free from slavery and in case one cannot find such means of atonement or expiation, one should set himself free from the slavery of life’s requirements, body’s needs, and soul’s lusts. Fasting is thus the worship of the free; it is a way of disciplining and educating the free!

Were Muslims keen on realizing – through fasting – the meanings of freedom, the reasons of freedom and the keys of freedom, and abstained from associating fasting with hunger and thirst only as is mentioned above, we would see all Muslim lands free from any form of injustice and aggression as a true Muslim soul is entitled to have a strength that is mightier than the strength of any aggression or injustice for it fears none but Allah and none has any power over it but Allah, the Creator of the whole universe.

Finally, the day Muslims will realize the real essence of fasting and regard it as a school for emancipating and freeing their souls from all blemishes and defects, only then we will be in the right path towards gaining Allah’s victory over all enemies and foes and being real and worthy sucessors upon the earth!

About Dr. Ali Al-Halawani

Dr. Ali Al-Halawani is Assistant Professor of Linguistics and Translation Studies. He is an author, translator, and writer based in Canada. To date, Al-Halawani authored over 400 original articles on Islam and Muslims, most of which can be accessed on www.aboutislam.net and other famous websites. He has recently started to self-publish his articles and new books, which are available on Amazon and Kindle. You can reach him at alihalawani72@hotmail.com.

- aboutislam.net

Is Ramadan about Understanding Poverty?

 

“Fasting is a way to understand what it feels like to be hungry so that we can have sympathy for the poor and be more generous.“

This is something many of us have read this time of the lunar year.

Fasting to feel sympathy and be more generous may be the outcome of Ramadan for some.

But those living in poverty are also required to fast. Is the point of their fasting to understand something they already know?

Looking at Ramadan through the lens of “cultivating sympathy for the poor and hungry” would be like looking at the universe through a pinhole. It not only gives an extremely limited view, it is a view that can only come out of a certain perspective.

What is Ramadan about?

The purpose of Ramadan is not solely about humanizing those who suffer poverty and hunger all year round; it is not just about cultivating generosity; Ramadan is not even solely about fasting, either. Ramadan is about the Quran.

Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was first revealed to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH). It was in this month that the Prophet, as he was known to do, went to the Cave of Hira’ to contemplate.

Those of us who feel weighed down by all the suffering we see in the news, corruption in politics, and the rising tide of bigotry and self-worship will understand the Prophet’s (PBUH) motivation to go to the Cave of Hira’.

He (PBUH) needed to get away and be with himself, to be introspective, to reflect on the state of his world. He saw the greed and abuse of power, the horrible treatment of the weak in his society, and the rampant idol worship, and it weighed heavily on his heart.

He (PBUH) was seeking understanding of his world through a greater lens. He was seeking God.

It is reported in Muslim that:

[…] solitude became dear to him and he used to seclude himself in the cave of Hira’, where he would engage in tahannuth (a worship for a number of nights) before returning to his family and getting provisions again for this purpose.

He would then return to Khadijah and take provisions for a like period, till the Truth came upon him while he was in the cave of Hira’. There came to him the angel and said: “Recite”.

Time to reconnect with the Quran

Ramadan for us today is our time to reflect, to contemplate, and to seek nearness to God as the Quran instructs us.

It is a time to strengthen and renew our spiritual existence; to unburden our hearts in recitation, salah, and dua; to reconnect with the revelation. Ramadan is our time to go to the cave, so to speak.

Maria Zain, an About Islam author who passed away in December 2014, wrote,

“Ramadan indicates an opportunity for a spiritual upgrade, a chance for betterment, to increase good deeds and to jointly shun those that do not benefit us, and one of the best opportunities to strengthen our relationship with God.”

Ramadan is not about fasting. Fasting is a means to an end. It is a way to facilitate our spiritual renewal.

Fasting breaks down the divide we put up in our normal lives between our physical and spiritual existences.

It forces our minds to turn in on themselves and reflect on the nature of our existence. It forces our bodies to feel their own frailty in comparison to the greatness of God.

It forces our hearts to feel gratitude for what Allah (SWT) has provided for us.

In Ramadan the mind, the body, and the heart turn toward the Quran to hear the words of its Author and our Architect.

The Quran breaks down the divide we put up between ourselves and the world in which we live; it disrupts the rift we believe time creates between ourselves and those who came before us; it breaks down the walls we put up between ourselves and our fellow creation.

The Quran directs the mind to stop thinking so much about the self. It directs the body to be in the service of others. It directs the heart to be soft and merciful to all.

Fasting is not the point of the month, showing mercy is not the point of the month, increased generosity is not the point either, nor is humility. The Quran is the point of the month.

And the Quran brings us to these conclusions: God loves those who show mercy, those who are humble, those who do good, and those who are just; and there is no greater goal than attaining the love of God.

Character development is a byproduct of a close connection to the Quran that is available all year round, but is made easier through the fasting of Ramadan.

So, if you are one of the blessed few in this world who has more than they need, and Ramadan brings you to the conclusion that you should feel empathy and be more generous, this is simply a sign that you are doing Ramadan right.

The article is from the archives.

About Theresa Corbin

Theresa Corbin is the author of The Islamic, Adult Coloring Book and co-author of The New Muslim’s Field Guide. Corbin is a French-creole American and Muslimah who converted in 2001. She holds a BA in English Lit and is a writer, editor, and graphic artist who focuses on themes of conversion to Islam, Islamophobia, women's issues, and bridging gaps between peoples of different faiths and cultures. She is a regular contributor for AboutIslam.net and Al Jumuah magazine. Her work has also been featured on CNN and Washington Post, among other publications. Visit her blog, islamwich, where she discusses the intersection of culture and religion.

-aboutislam.net

CHAPTER 24, AN-NUR (THE LIGHT)

 

Introduction

Chapter 24 of the Quran was revealed in Medina and concentrates on establishing the good manners and morals that will ultimately benefit the new Muslim society.  It establishes regulations for marriage, modesty, appropriate household behaviour, and the manners and necessity of obedience to Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him.  The title of the chapter is taken from verses 35 in which God is described as the light of the heavens and the earth.  While the central theme of this chapter is educating the Muslim community, it flows effortlessly from prescribing mandatory punishments to gently inviting us to reflect on the signs God has placed for us throughout the universe.

Verses 1 – 9 Compulsory Punishments

God has sent this chapter down from on high and contains commandments that are obligatory.  This emphatic opening is followed by an explanation of the mandatory punishment of flogging for a person who commits fornication.  The people are advised not to let compassion keep them from enforcing this rule.  Muslims carry out God’s orders without hesitation.  In this case, before the flogging is administered there must be witnesses to the crime.  And when the punishment is administered, it should be witnessed by others so that is serves as a psychological deterrent for those who have similar tendencies.

Believers do not marry a fornicator or fornicatress just as they would not marry a polytheist.   Illegal sexual intercourse is a severe crime, however anyone who makes false accusations make themselves liable for punishment.  If couples accuse each other of adultery they can be exempted from punishment by taking prescribed oaths attesting to their good behaviour.

Verses 10 – 26 A lesson

And God says that if it was not for His favour and Mercy…, and then leaves the end of the sentence up to the reader.  It is most commonly believed that it means if not for the mercy of God and the fact that He bestows favours upon humankind our lives would be much more difficult.  We would perhaps be punished or even destroyed.

Having outlined the rules about accusing women of illegal sexual intercourse, God mentions the evil incident regarding the slander against Aisha, the wife of Prophet Muhammad.  It contains a lesson for humankind; and all who took part in it will be punished accordingly, some will receive a severe punishment.  Nobody gave Aisha the benefit of the doubt and nobody produced witnesses.  Still many people passed on the gossip.  God asks why they did not hesitate to repeat a monstrous slander and warns the believers never to do this again.  This unthinking behaviour causes pain, doubt and worry.  And once again God leaves us to finish the sentence, if it were not for God’s Mercy and His favour, humankind might be severely punished.

Following in Satan’s footsteps only leads to indecency and evil.  Those who are blessed by God should not swear of not helping others, and those who accuse chaste women are cursed in this life and will face a severe punishment.  In the end the corrupt will associate with other corrupt people while good people will be with other like mined people.  It is the good people who will find forgiveness and generous provision.

Verses 27 – 34 Manners

God tells the believers not to enter homes other than their own unless they have been granted permission.  However there is no harm in entering uninhabited places if there is a good reason to do so.  Men are told to lower their gazes and guard their modesty and then women are exhorted to do the same including not revealing their charms, beauty or adornments to any men except those who are not strangers to them such as, husband, father, sons, brothers, father-in-law, stepsons and nephews.  Women should also not draw attention to themselves in such a way that will tempt another person to sin.

Men and women are encouraged to marry.   However they should abstain from sexual relations until God provides them with the means to marry.  A slave wishing to buy his or her freedom should be encouraged and aided with some of the wealth God has provided.  Do not force slave girls into prostitution.  The fate of earlier communities demonstrates what happens to those who deviate from God’s laws.

Verses 35 The verse of light

In this verse, God describes the heart of the believer by using the analogy of light. God is the light of the heavens and the earth. It is His light that illuminates the universe, without it there is nothing but darkness. Try to imagine a lamp in a niche in a wall.  It burns brightly but the light becomes even brighter when it enclosed in a crystal; so bright that it shines light like a radiant star in the sky. The light is fuelled from the oil of an olive tree, often called a blessed tree. It is an olive tree that grows in a central position able to get the light of the sun throughout the day. For this reason, the oil is pure and burns as if it has no need for the fire that keeps it alight. It is light upon light, the light of the pure oil and the light of the fire.  It is God who guides us to His light. The bright light that fills the heart of the believer glows like nothing else in this vast universe.  It is light upon light, upon light.

Verses 36 – 45 God’s radiant light…

The light God mentions can be found in the houses and mosques that have been built for God’s remembrance. God is remembered and honoured there and His name is glorified throughout the day. The people are not distracted by commerce because they fear the Day of Judgement.  They perform the prayer, give the obligatory charity and remember that they will be called to account. The people will then be rewarded for their good deeds and God will add even more to the bounty of whomever He pleases.

The deeds of the unbelievers will disappear like a mirage in the desert.  God’s reckoning will be swift.  The state of a disbeliever is like darkness in a bottomless ocean.  If God does not give light there is no light at all.  Everything in the heavens and the earth glorify God in its own way.  Each knowing how to pray and exalt Him, and God is well aware of all that they do.  God controls the heavens and earth, drives the clouds, and sends the hail, diverting it from whomever he wishes.  He alternates the night and the day, and has created every living thing from water.

Verses 46- 64 Obey the Prophet & permissions granted

God sends clear revelations and He guides whomever He pleases.  Some hypocrites declare their belief but then turn their backs.  When they are summoned to God and His Messenger they turn away as if their hearts are diseased or they fear injustice.  They are wrongdoers; the believers on the other hand, hear and obey.  Only those who do not incur God’s displeasure will be successful.  If you obey Prophet Muhammad you will be rightly guided for it is his duty to convey the message clearly.  Establish the prayer, pay the obligatory charity and obey the Messenger and you will be given mercy.  Never think the disbelievers will escape punishment, their refuge will be the Fire.

Ask permission before entering at three times: before the dawn prayer, at the midday rest and after the evening prayer.  If elderly women want to lay aside their outer garments there is no blame on them.  There is no blame laid on the blind, the lame or the sick who wish to eat and mingle with people, and there is no prohibition on eating at the houses of members of your extended family or close friends.  Remember to give greetings of peace. 

Ask permission to leave when you are meeting with Prophet Muhammad, and do not leave unless the needs are pressing.  Treat and address Prophet Muhammad with all the respect due to a man of his lofty station.  God knows all thoughts and actions and on the Day of Judgement they will be clear to see.  God knows everything. - islamreligion.com

Ramadan Duas for first 10 days

 

Ramadan Duas for first 10 days: Are you fasting today but forgot the dua of the first 10 days? No problem we have a Ramadan Dua for 10 days. The Holy month of Ramadan is the 8th month in the Islamic calendar. During Ramadan, people fast and abstain from drinking, sex, smoking, sinful attitude, and mainly from eating food from early morning till sunset for at least 29 to 30 days.

Ramadan is not just about fasting but people also offer prayers and try their best to fulfil other Islamic obligations because it is the blessed month and during Ramadan, the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad PBUH. The month comprises of 3 Ahsras with ten days in each Ashra (Ashra means ten in Arabic). So we have presented 10 Duas for the first 10 days which will help you to build value and spirituality during Ramadan. - theramadankareem.com

30 Days Ramadan Doa Guide: Ramadan Prayers With Meaning

 

Ramadan being the most important religious month in Islam, presents countless opportunities to connect with the almighty Allah. Therefore, it becomes essential to offer appropriate Ramadan dua along with fasting for the whole month from sunrise to sunset. Muslims can take help of prayer guides to perform step-by-step dua for each day of the Ramadan. The purpose of these guides is to properly utilize the month of Ramadan and fetch great rewards and blessings from Allah. The guides assist in maintaining a smooth Ramadan dua routine while getting through the daily activities amidst fasting.

Importance of Ramadan dua

Ramadan is the ninth month according to the Islamic calendar. This month is quite unique for Muslims as the month is known for doing charity, seeking forgiveness, and Allah’s mercy. Ramadan offers a great opportunity for every Muslim to mend their ways and connect spiritually with Allah. In this month, Muslims around the world fast from dawn to dusk making up for the five pillars of Islam. To increase the effects of fasting, Muslims offer Ramadan dua and prayers in a strict schedule.

Ramadan dua for Fasting

Dua before iftar

Given below is the dua for opening fast with iftar:

Iftar dua: Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa alayka tawakkaltu wa ala rizq-ika-aftartu

Meaning: O Allah! I fast for You, I trust You, I put my faith in You, and I break the fast with Your sustenance.

One must recite the dua for breaking the fast for making the meal blessed.

Suhoor dua

Sehri ki dua: Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri Ramadan

Meaning: I intend to keep this fast for tomorrow in the holy month of Ramadan.

Dua for Laylatul Qadr

The last 10 odd nights of Ramadan is highly rewarding when holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Hence, it is important one knows the right dua for these nights.

Laylatul Qadr dua: Allahumma Innaka Aafuwon Tuhibu AlAaffwa FAafu Aanni

Meaning: Oh Allah! You are hihgly forgiving, and you love to forgive people, so please forgive me.

Three Ashras of the Ramadan month

According to Hadith, fasting is not enough for enjoying Allah’s blessings. Attaining control on the amount of sina and praying most of the time is also necessary for forming a spiritual bond with Allah. Ramadan is divided into three Ashras (stages), lasting ten days. The dua recited in every Ashra is for different reasons and benefits. One can recite first Ashra dua for praising the start of Allah’s mercy, second is for seeking forgiveness and the third Ashra duas are for praying to Allah to save an individual from Hellfire.

Ramadan dua for the first Ashra

The first Ashra represents the mercy of Allah which is bestowed in many small ways in this month. Important Dua for first Ashara is as follows:

Rabbi ighfir warham wa anta khayrur raahimeen

Duas to recite during the first Ashra:

Day 1 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumaj al siyami fihi siyamasaa imina wa kiyami fihi kiyamal kaa imina wa nabhini fihi an naumatil gafilina wahabli jurmi fihi ya ilahal almina wafu anni ya afian anil mujrimin

Meaning: Allah on this day make my fasts the fasts of those who fast sincerely and my standing up in prayer of those who stand up in prayer. Awaken me from the sleep of the heedless and forgive me my sins. O God of the worlds forgive me, O one who forgives the sinners.

Day 2 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahuma karibni fihi ila mardatika wajanibni fihi min sakhatikawa nakima tika wa wafikni fihi likiraa ati ayatikabi rehmatika ya arhamar rahimin

Meaning: Allah on this day take me closer towards your pleasure, keep me away from your anger and punishment, grant me the opportunity to recite your verses by your mercy, O the most merciful.

Day 3 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumar zukani fihizzih nawat tabiha wabaidnifihi minsafahati watawihi wajaali nafsiban minkuli khairin tunzilu fihi bijudka ya ajwadal ajwadina

Meaning: Allah on this day grant me wisdom and awareness; keep me away from foolishness and pretension, grant me a share in every blessing you send down, by your generosity, or the most generous.

Day 4 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma kauwini fihi alaikamati amrica wa azikuni fihi alawati zikrika wa auzini fihi li adaai shukrika bikaramika wajfazani fihi bihifzika wasitrika ya absaran nazirin

Meaning: Allah on this day, strengthen me in carrying out your commands; let me taste the sweetness of your remembrance, grant me, through your graciousness, that I give thanks to you. Protect me, with your protection and cover, O the most discerning of those who see.

Day 5 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahuma jualni fihi minal mustagfirina wajalni fihi minibadikas salihinal kanitina wajaalni fihi min auliyaa ikalmukarrabina bira u fatika ya arhamar rahimin

Meaning: Allah, place me among those who seek forgiveness on this day. Place me among your righteous and obedient servants, and place me among your close friends, by your kindness, O most merciful.

Day 6 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma latakhzulni fihi litarrudi masiyatika walatadribni bisiyati nakimatika wazhazini fihi min mujibati sakhatika bimannika waayadika yamuntaha ragbatir ragibin

Meaning: Allah on this day, do not let me Abase myself by incurring your disobedience, and do not strike me with the whip of your punishment, keep me away from the causes of your anger. By your power, O the ultimate, fulfil the wish of those who desire.

Day 7 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahuma ainna fihi alasiyamihi wakiyamihi wajanibni fihi minhafawatihi wasamihi warzukuni fihi zikraka bidawamihi bitaufikika yahadial mudilina

Meaning: Allah on this day, help me with its fasts and prayers, and keep me away from mistakes and sins of the day, grant me that I remember you and continue through the day, by your assistance, O the Guide of those who stray.

Day 8 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumar zukani fihi rahmatal aytami waitamata amiwa ifshaa asalami wasuhbatalkira mibitau lika yamal jal amilina

Meaning: Allah on this day, let me have mercy on the orphans, and feed the hungry, and spread peace, and keep company with the noble-minded, O the shelter of the hopeful.

Day 9 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumaj alli fihi nasiban min rahmatikal wasiati wahdin fihi libarahin ikaasa tiatiwakhuz bina siyati ila mardatikal jamiati bama hadatika ya amalal mushtakina

Meaning: Allah on this day, grant me a share from your mercy which is comprehensive, guide me towards your shining proofs, lead me to your all-encompassing pleasure, by your love, O the hope of the desirous.

Day 10 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumaj alni fihi minalmutawakilina alayka wajalni fihi minal faizina ladaykawajalni fihi minalmukarabina ilayka bihsan nikaya fayatatalibina

Meaning: Allah on this day make me, among those who rely on you, from those who you consider successful, and place me among those who are near you, by your favor, O goal of the seekers.

Ramadan dua for second Ashra

The second Ashra is significant for seeking Allah’s mercy and asking him forgiveness for one’s sins. The dua that can be recited during the second Ashra is

Astagfirullaha rabbi min kulli zambiyon wa-atoobuilaiyh

Duas to recite during the second Ashara:

Day 11 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahuma habbib ilayay fihil ihsana wakariyu illaiya fihil fusukawal isyana waharrim alliya fihis sakhata wannirana biaunika yagiyasal mustagisina

Meaning: Allah on this day, make me love goodness, and dislike corruption and disobedience, bar me from anger and the fire of Hell, by your help, O the helper of those who seek help.

Day 12 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma zayini fihi bisitri walifafi wasturni fihi bilibasil kunuiwalkifa fiwajmilni fihi alla adli walinsafi waamini fihi min kulli maakhafu bismatika ya simatal kahifina

Meaning: Allah on this day, beautify me with covering and chastity, cover me with the clothes of contentment and chastity, let me adhere to justice and fairness, and keep me safe from all that I fear, by your protection, or the protector of the frightened.

Day 13 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma tahirni fihi minada nasiwal afzariwasabirni fihi alakainatil akdariwa wafikni fihi litukawasuhbatil abrari biaunika yakurata ainil masakini

Meaning: Allah on this day, purify me from uncleanliness and dirt, make me patient over the events that are decreed, grant me the ability to be pious, and keep company with the good, by your help, O the beloved of the destitute.

Day 14 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahuma latuak akhizni fihi bilasarati waakilni fihi minal khataya wal hafawati wal taj alni fihi garadan lillbala yawal afati biizatika ya izzal muslamina

Meaning: Allah on this day do not condemn me for slips, make me decrease mistakes and errors, do not make me a target for afflictions and troubles, by your honor, O the honor of the Muslims.

Day 15 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumar zukani fihi taatal khashina washraka fihi sadri biina batil mukhbitna biamanika ya amanal khaa ifina

Meaning: O Allah on this day grant me the obedience of the humble, expand my chest through the repentance of the humble, by your security, O the shelter of the fearful.

Day 16 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allhumma wafikni fihi limuwa fakatil abrariwajanibni fihi murafaktal asrariwa awini fihi birehmatikaila darilkararibi Lahiya tika ya ilahal alamina

Meaning: Allah on this day grant me compatibility with the good, keep me away from patching up from the evil, lead me in it, by your mercy, to the permanent abode, by your godship, O the God of the worlds.

Day 17 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahummahdini fihi liswalihil amaliwakudili fihil hawaiji walamali yaman layah taju ilatafsiri wasuali yaaliman bimafisuduril alamina saliala muhammadin walihitahirina

Meaning: Allah on this day, guide me towards righteous options, fulfill my needs and hopes, O one who does not need explanations nor questions, O one who knows what is in the chests of the world’s people. Bless Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) and his family, the pure.

Day 18 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma nabihni fihi libarakatias harihiwanawirfihi kalbi biyaa ianwarihi wakhuzbikulli adai ilatibai asarihibinuri kayamunavira kulubil arifina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, awaken me with the blessings of its early mornings, Illuminate my heart with the brightness of its rays, let every part of my body follow its effects, by Your light, O the illuminator of the hearts of those who know.

Day 19 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma wafer fihi hazimin barakatihi wasahil sayili ilakhairatihi walatahrimni kabula hasana tihiyahadiyan illhakal mubini

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, multiply for me its blessings, and ease my path towards its bounties, do not deprive me of the acceptance of its good deeds, O the Guide towards the clear truth.

Day 20 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumaftahli fihi abwabal jinani waglikanni fihi abwabannirani wafwafikni fihi litiwatilqurani yamunzilas sakinatifi kulubilmuminina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, open for me the doors of the heavens, and lock the doors of Hell from me, help me to recite the Qur’an, O the One who sends down tranquility into the hearts of believers.

Ramadan dua for third Ashra

The third Ashra is the last part of the month of Ramadan. In this Ashra comes the holy and essential date of Laylatul qadr. This date is unknown, but it is said by Allah it comes on either of these dates 21, 23, 25, 27, and 29. The dua for the last 10 days of Ramadan is:

Allahumma Ajirni minan naar

Duas for the third Ashra are as follows:

Day 21 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma innaka afuwun tuhibbu afwafafu anni

Also recite Surah al-Kadr as many times as possible.

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, show me the way to win Your pleasure, do not let Shaytan have a means over me, make Paradise an abode and a resting place for me, O the One who fulfills the requests of the needy.

Day 22 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allhumaf tahli fihi abwabafadlika wanzilalaiya fihi barakatika wawafikni fihi limujibati mardatika waskini fihi yuhbuhati jannatika yamuhiba dawatilmudutarina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, open for me the doors of Your Grace, send down on me its blessings, help me towards the causes of Your mercy, and give me a place in the comforts of Paradise, O the one who answers the call of the distressed.

Day 23 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma innaka afuwun tuhibbu afwafafu anni

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, wash away my sins, purify me from all flaws, examine my heart with (for) the piety of the hearts, O One who overlooks the shortcomings of the sinners.

Also, recite Surah al-Kadr as many times as possible.

Day 24 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma inni asaluka fihi mayurdika waauzubika mimma tuzika wasaluka fihi lianutika walaasika yajawadasailina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, I ask You for what pleases You, and I seek refuge in You from what displeases You, I ask You to grant me the opportunity to obey You and not disobey You, O One who is generous with those who ask.

Day 25 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma innaka afuwun tuhibbu afwafafu anni

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, make me among those who love Your friends, and hate Your enemies, following the way of Your last Prophet, O the Guardian of the hearts of the Prophets.

Also, recite Surah al-Kadr as many times as possible.

Day 26 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahummajalni sayifihi mashkuran wazanbi fihi magfuranwa amalifihi magbulan waibifihi masturan yaasmas samiina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, make my efforts worthy of appreciation, my sins forgiven, my deeds accepted, my flaws concealed, O the best of those who hear.

Day 27 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma innaka afuwun tuhibbu afwafafu anni

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, bestow on me the blessings of Laylatul Qadr, change my affairs from (being) difficult to (being) easy, accept my apologies, and decrease for me [my] sins and burdens, O the Compassionate with His righteous servants.

Also, recite Surah al-Kadr as many times as possible.

Day 28 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma wafirhazzi fihi minnanawa filiwakrimni fihibihdarilmasaa iliwakaribfihi wasilstiilayka minbaynilwasaaili yaman layashgaluhul mulihina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, grant me a share in its nawafil (recommended prayers), honor me by attending to my problems, make closer the means to approach You, from all the means, O One who is not preoccupied with the requests of the beseechers.

Day 29 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allahumma innaka afuwun tuhibbu afwafafu anni

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, cover me with Your mercy, grant me success and protection, purify my heart from the darkness of false accusations, O the Merciful to His believing servants.

Also, recite Surah al-Kadr as many times as possible.

Day 30 Ramadan dua and meaning

Allhumaj al siyamifihi bishukari walkubuli alamatardahu wayardahu rasulu mukahmatan furuhu bilusuli bihak sayidina muhamadiu walihitahirina walhamdullilahi rabilalamina

Meaning: O Allah, on this day, make my fasts worthy of appreciation and acceptance, according to what pleases You, and pleases the Messenger, the branches being strengthened by the roots, for the sake of our leader, Muhammad, and his purified family. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.

Ramadan provides an excellent opportunity to make amends with self and seek forgiveness from almighty Allah. Additionally, Muslims perform good deeds like the acts of charity, prayer, fasting and more to harvest higher levels of blessings and rewards. Ramadan dua bring closer to Allah and help in focusing on the daily activities.

Ramadan Dua FAQs

What is the dua for closing fast?

O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You and I put my trust in You and I break my fast with Your sustenance is the dua for closing the fast.

What is Ashra in Ramadan?

Ramadan is divided into 3 sections of 10 days known as Ashra.

Why is the second Ashra used?

Second Ashra should be focused on seeking mercy of Allah.

Why is Laylatul Qadr famous?

The odd last 10 nights of Ramadan are famous for celebrating Laylatul Qadr, which marks the revelation of the holy Quran.

What is the purpose of the 3rd Ashra?

One can use 3rd Ashra for getting away from the Hellfire.

- zamzam.com

Dr Omar Ayoub

Dr. Omar Ayoub is a tech enthusiast and a part time researcher and accounts authorship of several international publications. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from USA and has an experience of more than 10 years in Saudi Arabia working in tourism, hospitality, education, technology and retail sector. His interests include traveling, writing, and exploring trending technologies.