Shawwal

SubhaanAllah, (Glory be to Allah), the month of Shawwal is nearing end. It is sincerely hoped that most of us have taken advantage of the benefits of this month. Specifically, the six fasts of Shawwal that are essential to balance after Ramadaan. The women in our midst have had to make up for the fasts missed in Ramadaan due to haidh (mentruation). Men, together with women are encouraged to fast these 6 days for which the reward is immense both physically, mentally, psychologically and spiritually.

Physically, our bodies get another chance to acclimatise to the rigours of uncontrolled digestive demands, before finally reaching the equilibrium that is established after this second adjustment. Mentally, we are strenthened by these fasts, as there are now no safety nets as in Ramadaan. Psychologically, we are given strength of resolve as these fasts are purely voluntary. Spiritually, we advance as it gives us connection to the Holy Months of Hajj wherein we undergo training of the nafs further in that there is no obscenity, no wickedness and no arguments with our fellows in the pilgrimage. (Wala rafasa, wala fusooka, wal jidaala fil Hajj [2,197]) And where we are taught to make provisions, the best of which is piety. (wa tazawwado, fa inna khaira zaadit taqwa[2,197])

The women are able to see that they are not alone in doing any make up fasts and that, in addition, they gain access to the same rewards and benefits. That is indeed the equality engendered by our Lord, Allah and that indeed is the measuring of The Mighty, The Knowing. (Zaalika taqdeerul azeezul Aleem[36,38])

Yunous Vagh