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• 26 Shaban 1446

The representative of the Supreme Religious Authority in Europe shares a Ramadan message about the true essence of fasting, its spiritual goals, and its deeper meanings. He quotes Imam Al-Rida (peace be upon him), who said to Abu Al-Salt Al-Harawi during the last Friday of Sha’ban: “Do not neglect any trust placed upon you without fulfilling it; do not hold hatred in your heart toward a believer without removing it; and do not persist in any sin without repenting from it…”

Some might wrongly assume that God needs our hunger and thirst during Ramadan. This overlooks the moral, social, educational, and spiritual purposes of this sacred obligation. To clarify this and more, here are key points from this Ramadan message:
The blessed month of Ramadan arrives with divine blessings and mercy, offering a precious chance for personal and societal reform—not just in our relationship with God but also in our relationships with others. It is a time for reflection, self-improvement, and renewing our commitment to living by noble Islamic values.
While much is said about Ramadan’s virtues, fasting rules, and charity (Zakat), the deeper meaning of fasting goes beyond rituals to its core purpose: shaping a Muslim’s behavior and daily interactions.
Fasting isn’t just avoiding food and drink—it means avoiding injustice and violating others’ rights. What value does fasting hold if one’s home is taken unlawfully or meals are bought with stolen money? Temporary hunger loses meaning if others are deprived of their basic rights.
Ramadan urges us to review our financial, social, and life perspectives. Restoring others’ rights comes before giving charity. How can we donate money that rightfully belongs to a sister denied her inheritance or public funds seized illegally? True charity comes from lawful earnings; ill-gotten wealth invalidates donations.
Praying and fasting mean little if we betray trust or misuse authority for personal gain. Fasting teaches us honesty in all roles—respecting God’s boundaries publicly and privately.
Ramadan shines when we strengthen family relationships, honor parents (a sacred duty), and extend kindness to neighbors, friends, and strangers. A compassionate society reflects Ramadan’s spirit. Even small acts matter: keeping public spaces clean or helping others—these too are acts of faith and charity.
We must guide those under our care—teaching youth that fasting isn’t just hunger but a system of ethics visible in every action. Ramadan also calls us to reject greed and hoarding goods for profit—actions contrary to Ramadan’s spirit of generosity.
While God’s mercy forgives sins between Him and us, injustices against people require fixing in this life. Ramadan is a golden chance to cleanse hearts: fasting from hatred, gossip, gossipers' talkback, and harming others—true fasting involves heart, tongue, and limbs.
Ramadan offers diverse ways to do good: smiling, kind words, feeding, helping, or easing burdens—all lead to one goal: attaining God-consciousness (Taqwa).
In closing, let us remember Ramadan is a rare opportunity for personal and collective reform. Let’s deepen our understanding of Islamic values, uphold righty, and improve our conduct—to truly become God-conscious people who treat others with justice. This fulfills fasting’s ultimate goal: “so that you may attain Taqwa” (Quran 2:183).
We pray: “O Allah, do not let this be our last Ramadan. If it is, grant us Your mercy. Do not deprive us, O Most Merciful. Send blessings upon Muhammad and his pure family.”