Eman Sakina

Islam is a comprehensive way of life that guides every aspect of a Muslim's existence. A good Muslim is someone who strives to live by the teachings of the Qur'an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.

Friday Musings

The Islamic calendar, marked by its unique months and events, offers opportunities to build faith, purify the soul, and grow spiritually throughout the year. Here's how a Muslim can spend the year meaningfully, guided by Islamic principles.

Start with a Clear Intention (Niyyah)

Begin the year with sincere intentions to improve spiritually, mentally, and physically. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Actions are judged by intentions, so each person will receive what they intended.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Maintain a Daily Connection with Allah

The foundation of a good Muslim's life is a strong connection with Allah. This is achieved through consistent acts of worship and devotion:

Perform the five daily prayers on time. Salah keeps the heart connected to Allah and helps maintain discipline in life.

Strive to perform Sunnah and Nawafil prayers for additional blessings. Engage in the remembrance of Allah (dhikr) to begin and end your day with gratitude and protection.

Dedicate time daily to read, understand, and implement the teachings of the Qur'an in your life.

Embrace the Blessings of Islamic Months

The Islamic calendar is filled with spiritually significant months and events. A good Muslim utilizes these times for enhanced worship and reflection.

Sacred Months

Muharram: Fast on the 9th and 10th (Ashura) for forgiveness of past sins.

Dhul-Hijjah: Perform good deeds during the first ten days, fast on the Day of Arafah, and celebrate Eid al-Adha.

Ramazan: Use Ramazan to rejuvenate your faith through fasting, night prayers (Taraweeh), charity, and seeking Laylatul Qadr.

Rajab: Rajab is a time for increased worship and preparation for the spiritually significant months ahead. While no specific acts of worship are legislated for Rajab, it is a good time to renew intentions.

Sha’ban: Sha’ban is a month of preparation for Ramadan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Sha’ban is a month people neglect, but it is a month in which deeds are presented to Allah, so I like my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.” (An-Nasa’)

Prioritize Charity and Kindness

Acts of kindness and generosity are integral to a Muslim's character.

Give Charity Regularly: Whether through Zakat, Sadaqah, or small daily acts, charity purifies wealth and brings blessings.

Help Others: Serve your family, neighbours, and the less fortunate. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Darimi)

Focus on Personal and Spiritual Growth

Islam encourages self-improvement and lifelong learning.

Seek Knowledge by attending Islamic lectures, reading books, and joining study circles to deepen your understanding of Islam.

Reflect and Repent: Regularly assess your actions and seek forgiveness for shortcomings. Allah is always ready to forgive those who sincerely repent.

Maintain a Balanced Life

A good Muslim strives for a balance between worship, personal well-being, and worldly responsibilities.

Take Care of Your Health: Eat well, exercise, and get adequate rest to maintain physical and mental well-being.

Fulfill Responsibilities: Be diligent in work, studies, and family obligations while keeping Allah’s pleasure as your ultimate goal.

Strengthen Relationships

Be Kind to Family: Strengthen ties with your parents, spouse, children, and extended family.

Be a Good Neighbour: Islam emphasizes the rights of neighbours. Offer support and maintain good relations.

Prepare for the Afterlife

A good Muslim keeps the Hereafter in focus while living in this world.

Perform Hajj (if able): Plan for the pilgrimage to Makkah if it is within your means.

Remember Death: Reflect on the temporary nature of life and strive to accumulate good deeds.

End the Year with Gratitude

As the year concludes, thank Allah for His countless blessings and resolve to do even better in the coming year. Gratitude opens doors to more blessings, as Allah says in the Qur'an: "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favour]." (Surah Ibrahim, 14:7)

Spending the year according to Islam involves consistent worship, personal growth, and contributing positively to society. By living with intention, balance, and purpose, a Muslim can ensure their year is filled with blessings, peace, and spiritual success.