Ramadan has come to an end. Our eyes shed tears and our hearts ache for the departure of the month of the Qur’an, the month of mercy, solidarity, and forgiveness—the month of freedom from the Fire. However, we must continue performing good deeds after Ramadan, for the Lord of Ramadan is the Lord of the entire year.
Means of Ongoing Obedience
1. Be a Rabbani, Not a Ramadani
Pious predecessors used to say: “Try to be a Rabbani (belonging to Allah always), and do not be a Ramadani (only worshipping Allah in Ramadan).” We do not worship Almighty Allah only during one month; we are called to serve Him every day of our lives.
Muslims must continually engage in righteous actions. We must observe our daily prayers, fast during Ramadan, give zakah, and perform Hajj if we have the means. We should also speak the truth, maintain honesty, and treat all human beings with courtesy and kindness. Remember: good deeds lead to more good deeds, while bad deeds lead only to more bad deeds. As the saying goes: “One of the rewards of a good deed is the good deed that follows it, and one of the consequences of evil is the evil deed that follows it.”
2. Consistency as a Sign of Sincerity
Consistently doing good is a mark of true sincerity. When people continue their righteous actions, it indicates they truly benefited from their efforts and that Almighty Allah has accepted their deeds. Conversely, if someone prays, fasts, and gives charity only to stop once the month ends, it suggests their initial intention lacked sincerity.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized that the best deeds in the sight of Allah are those done consistently, even if they are small. Islam is a religion of purity and sincerity that applies to all seasons, not just Ramadan. We should seize every opportunity to show devotion and humbleness at all times to gain His pleasure.
3. Practical Means to Continue Good Deeds
To help remain steadfast in faith after Ramadan, consider these beneficial practices:
Seek Allah’s Support
Beseech Him to guide you and help you remain firm. Allah praises the supplication of the soundly instructed:“Our Lord! Cause not our hearts to stray after Thou hast guided us, and bestow upon us mercy from Thy Presence. Lo! Thou, only Thou art the Bestower.” (Aal `Imran 3:8)
Observe Optional Fasting
The Sunnah encourages fasting throughout the year, including:
- Six days during the month of Shawwal.
- The Day of `Arafah (Dhul-Hijjah 9) for those not performing Hajj.
- Muharram 10 (Ashura), and if possible, the 9th and 11th.
- As many days as possible during Sha`ban.
- The months of Rajab, Dhul-Qi`dah, and Dhul-Hijjah.
- Mondays and Thursdays.
- The 13th, 14th, and 15th of every lunar month.
Continue the Tahajjud Prayer
Even two rak`ahs can maintain the habit formed in Ramadan. Allah says of the devout:“Their limbs do forsake their beds of sleep, the while they call on their Lord, in Fear and Hope.” (As-Sajdah 32:16)The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) noted that Qiyam Al-Layl brings us closer to our Lord, atones for sins, and protects the body from disease.
Reflect on the Qur’an
Do not forsake the Book of Allah. The Qur’an records the Prophet’s complaint: “O Lord, indeed my people have forsaken this Qur’an” (Al-Furqan 25:30). We should strive to avoid being among those mentioned in this complaint.
Care for the Poor and Needy
Ramadan teaches us the pangs of hunger and thirst so we may sympathize with the less fortunate. A true Muslim cannot be apathetic to the suffering of others. In a hadith qudsi, Allah mentions that finding Him is tied to feeding the hungry and caring for the needy.
Perform Regular Dhikr
Regularly asking for forgiveness and remembering Allah increases faith and strengthens the heart.
Maintain Self-Discipline
Having trained ourselves to refrain from lawful food and drink during the day, we should use that discipline to continue avoiding everything Allah has prohibited.
Practical Tips for Ongoing Obedience
- Continue attending the Masjid.
- Maintain unity regarding the celebration of `Eid and all religious events.
- Attend the Khatm (completion) of the Qur’an; it is a time when supplications are answered.
- Attend `Eid prayers and gatherings.
- Do not delay Zakat al-Fitr: It must be given before the `Eid prayer to serve its purpose of purifying the faster and providing for the poor.
We ask Allah to accept our good deeds and grant us His forgiveness and mercy.
By Wa’il Shihab
