Embrace The True Essence Of Ramadan 2020 Despite Covid-19 Pandemic

This year Ramadan may be slightly unusual since the extraordinary case of the global epidemic corona is coinciding alongside the holy month. The extended lockdown has led people frustrated due to the necessary self-arbitrary, quarantine. Constant updates of the death toll and the on and off lockdown decisions have caused people to become sensitive and hence they fear uncertainty each day.

Amid such critical issues surrounding our environment, it is difficult to plan productive activities. However, the only way we can escalate positivity is by rejoicing the goodness Ramadan brings along. Gratitude for the holy month alongside its blessing and good vibes is exceptionally exhilarating while coping with stress.

The crux of Ramadan is to attain taqwa; consciousness of Allah. This includes the acts of performing additional prayers, reading the Quran, helping the poor, and conclusively performing all good deeds while refraining from sins.

Applying piety for the holy month we can maintain a less stressed Ramadan routine amid lockdown. Since this is the month for reconnecting with religion, family and friends there are plenty of activities we can plan at our very home.

In the past years, Ramadan must have been extremely social for most of us with the opportunity to eat out at iftari and sahur. This may not be the same this year, hence, this is a chance for us Muslims to cook simple yet nutritious meals at home. We can also engage kids to help prepare food to spread the love and blessing of the sacred month.

Offering communal prayers is not possible this Ramadan since prayers are strictly prohibited in mosques to avoid the spread of corona. This will allow families to spend time together while they pray and practice their pious aspirations.

Another good virtue is to help donate. Many times, we overspend our budgets considering grocery shopping for Ramadan. This year during the holy month let’s keep aside a certain amount for charity against the overspending since it is most needed by those who have nothing in hand and are deprived of necessary amenities such as food.

With such simple activities, we can not only support our families to get through the stress of lockdown and panic but also help people who need us the most during this outbreak. This is the right time to pray and extend a helping hand for the service of others to remember and please the Almighty.

It is difficult to stay positive during such dark days, however, if we only remember the true essence of Ramadan and embrace it by practicing taqwa we can uplift our spirits. Despite the uncertainty, we need to be persistent and practice piety alongside patience to enter the realm of spirituality this Ramadan.