Ramadan- a general perspective

By:  Mohd. Nasir Ahmed, Shillong- 793001 (nasir2kman[@]yahoo.com) Ramadan- a general perspective Ramadan (Sawm) is one of the five pillars of Islam and the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. The… Read more »

By:  Mohd. Nasir Ahmed, Shillong- 793001 (nasir2kman[@]yahoo.com)

Ramadan- a general perspective

Ramadan (Sawm) is one of the five pillars of Islam and the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. The meaning of Sawm is to ‘abstain’. In this month, Allah Subhana Wa Taala (SWT) has made it compulsory that the fasting be observed by day, and he has made the ‘Taraweeh’ (Ramadan nightly prayer) a ‘Sunnah’. Fasting is to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, saying, looking, listening bad things and conjugal relations from dawn till sunset. The goal of fasting is to develop self-restrain (Taqwa).

Ramadan is an annual training programme to refresh us for carrying out our duties towards Allah (SWT). Fasting develops self-control and helps us to overcome selfishness, greed, laziness and other faults. This month of patience gives us an opportunity to experience for ourselves what it is like to have an empty stomach. This develops our feeling for the poor and hungry people. Fasting teaches us to control the love of comfort.

If difficulty is experienced in fasting, one should bear it cheerfully and not complain. Should we feel fatigued at the time of Taraweeh (Ramadan nightly prayer), this too should be borne with fortitude. It should also be borne in mind that fasting does not aim at inflicting punishment upon people or taking on unbearable burdens. The underlying idea behind it is to teach moderation and spiritual discipline so that human temptations may not become so wild and uncontrollable as to flout the commands of the Great Master. To be a true servant of Allah (SWT), it is essential that man should be able to conform his behavior to the moral and spiritual discipline embodied in the Shari’ah of Islam. Fasting is indispensable for this moral and spiritual training. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of mercy are opened and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained”. (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2361)

The hadith (sayings of prophet) below gives some very important points regarding Ramadan: The Prophet (pbuh) said “Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarrelling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’ There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and other at the time when he will meet Allah; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.” (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 128)

In this month, the rebellious ‘Shayateen’ (Satans) are chained, so as not to provoke those evils which they normally do during months other than Ramadan. A question may arise here that, when the ‘Shayateen’ are chained, how it is that we still do see evil committed? The reply is that evil may not necessarily be caused by the rebellious ‘Shayateen’. People have for eleven months lived in obedience to ‘Shayateen’ whims and wishes, and so performing evil deeds instigated by them becomes second nature. Consequently, evil is being done in and out of Ramadan. Therefore the feelings and lessons we experience should stay with us throughout the year. In Al-Qur’an, Muslims are commanded to fast so that they may “become pious”. This piety and devotion is especially felt during Ramadan, but we all must strive to make the feelings and attitude stay with us during our “normal” lives. That is the true goal and test of Ramadan.

Fasting is the way to piety and the fear of God. Fasting narrows the food and blood arteries. They are known to be canals of the devils, hence fasting reduces their insinuation. It further weakens carnal desires, thoughts and temptations of disobedience. Fasting enhances bodily health. It gets rid of contaminated matter, eases the stomach, purifies the blood, eases the working of the heart, brightens the spirit, refines the soul and disciplines the character. When an individual fasts, his soul is humbled and his carnal desires are dispelled. There is a great reward for fasting, as it shows a Muslim obeying Allah (SWT) and submitting to His command.

According Dr. Jack Goldstein author of the book “Triumph over Disease by Fasting and Natural Diet” says that “Fasting give vital organ a complete rest, promotes elimination of metabolic wastes, allows the body to adjust and normalize its bio-chemistry and also its secretion, lets the body break down and absorb swellings, deposits, diseased tissues, and abnormal growth; restores a youthful condition to cells and tissues, increases the power of digestion and assimilation and permits the conservation and re-routing of energy; it clears and strengthens the minds”.

Fasting in Ramadan is not merely physically restraining from the obvious food and drink, but the total commitment of the servant’s body and soul to the letter and spirit of fasting.

1) The fast of the self means to be free from all carnal desires.

2) The fast of mind is avoiding thoughts about things other than Allah (SWT).

3) The fast of the hand is not touching/taking what does not belong to it.

4) The fast of the nose means not sniffing or smelling unlawful things.

5) The fast of the feet is not going places where sinful acts are propagated.

6) The fast of the eye is to prevent it from seeing forbidden things.

Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be mindful of their chastity; this will be most conducive to their purity. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be mindful of their chastity, and not display their charms (in public) beyond what may (decently) be apparent thereof, hence let them draw their head-covering over their bosoms”. (Al-Qur’an 24:30-31)

7) The fast of the tongue is guarding against lying, backbiting, slandering, reviling, abusing others, cursing, indecent conversation, swearing and false evidence. The Prophet (pbuh) said: “A Muslim is he from whose tongue and hands other Muslims are safe”.

The Prophet (pbuh) said, “”Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting.)” (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 127)

8.  The fast of the ears is not to listen to idle talk, gossip, lyrics and notes that contain obscene and indecent things. Listening to Al-Qur’an bears the fruit of faith, guidance, light and prosperity. It fills the heart with wisdom, tranquility, intimacy and contentment. It is a source of protection from the dangerous, deviant and sinful thoughts.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2011/08/ramadan-a-general-perspective/

ZYF warns state govt on Sadar Hills

The Zeliangrong Youth Front Assam, Manipur Nagaland strongly urged the state government to seek views and opinions of different communities residing in the Sadar Hills prior to taking concrete decision regarding the demand raised by the Sadar Hills…

The Zeliangrong Youth Front Assam, Manipur Nagaland strongly urged the state government to seek views and opinions of different communities residing in the Sadar Hills prior to taking concrete decision regarding the demand raised by the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee Source Hueiyen News Service

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=25&src=060811

United Club National Highway 37 appeals on economic blockade

All the Ministers, MLAs and IAS MCS officers as well as the public in Manipur are in support of the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee Source The Sangai Express

All the Ministers, MLAs and IAS MCS officers as well as the public in Manipur are in support of the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=13&src=060811

500 bedded working women hostel for NE states at Jasola opens on August 20

It is good news for working women from the North East states in Delhi and the national capital region Source Hueiyen News Service Manipur Information centre

It is good news for working women from the North East states in Delhi and the national capital region Source Hueiyen News Service Manipur Information centre

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=23&src=060811

KUMHUR’s posers to CM on Sadar hills

Demanding to know the reason behind the delay over solving the three decades old problem, Kuki Movement for Human Rights KUMHUR has asked Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh to come out with a clarification on the state of confusion prevailing over the issu…

Demanding to know the reason behind the delay over solving the three decades old problem, Kuki Movement for Human Rights KUMHUR has asked Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh to come out with a clarification on the state of confusion prevailing over the issue of Sadar hills Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=12&src=060811

ATM problems to be solved within a year

The problems faced by the people of Manipur while transecting money from ATM booths will be solved within a year by opening many other ATM booths in the state, sources said Source Hueiyen News Service Yanglem Robindro Singh

The problems faced by the people of Manipur while transecting money from ATM booths will be solved within a year by opening many other ATM booths in the state, sources said Source Hueiyen News Service Yanglem Robindro Singh

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=21&src=060811

Naga students on Sadar Hills issue

The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur ANSAM drew the attention of the Government of Manipur to recollect and refer to the MoU signed between the Nagas in Manipur and the Government of Manipur and the Naga Students’ Federation NSF with the Gov…

The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur ANSAM drew the attention of the Government of Manipur to recollect and refer to the MoU signed between the Nagas in Manipur and the Government of Manipur and the Naga Students’ Federation NSF with the Government of Manipur during the tenures of Rishang Keishing and W Nipamacha Singh as Chief Ministers on the proposed creation of Sadar Hills district in the State of Manipur Source Hueiyen News Service Newmai News Network

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=19&src=060811

Cabinet takes cover under ‘minutely study’ alibi

The issue of upgrading Sadar Hills to a full fledged district was discussed in detail by the State Cabinet but the meeting stopped short of taking any concrete decision Source The Sangai Express

The issue of upgrading Sadar Hills to a full fledged district was discussed in detail by the State Cabinet but the meeting stopped short of taking any concrete decision Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=9&src=060811

ZYF for consultation on Sadar Hills

The Zeliangrong Youth Front ZYF has urged upon the State Government to seek views and opinions of different communities residing in Sadar Hills before taking any concrete decision regarding the decision raised by the Sadar Hills District hood Demand …

The Zeliangrong Youth Front ZYF has urged upon the State Government to seek views and opinions of different communities residing in Sadar Hills before taking any concrete decision regarding the decision raised by the Sadar Hills District hood Demand Committee SHDDC Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=15&src=060811

Not without the consent of Nagas, says ANSAM

Creation of the proposed Sadar Hills district should be based on consensus and should be with the consent of Nagas, failing which the Government of Manipur may invite unwanted consequences, ANSAM has stated categorically in a press release Source Th…

Creation of the proposed Sadar Hills district should be based on consensus and should be with the consent of Nagas, failing which the Government of Manipur may invite unwanted consequences, ANSAM has stated categorically in a press release Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=8&src=060811

ANSAM raises consensus rider, Kim Gangte questions, KUMHUR puts record straight Stranded passengers in dire straits Sadar Hills angst continue to simmer, SHDDC to take fight to the end

Even as Government office buildings in Sadar hills area continue to bear the brunt of the ongoing agitation, the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee SHDDC has categorically stated that it would not relent until the Government lives up to its co…

Even as Government office buildings in Sadar hills area continue to bear the brunt of the ongoing agitation, the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee SHDDC has categorically stated that it would not relent until the Government lives up to its commitment and implement the demand for upgradation of Sadar Hills to a full fledged revenue district Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=1&src=060811

AMWJU decries life bid on Journalist

A joint meeting of All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union and editors held at Manipur Press Club today afternoon with AMWJU president A Mobi Singh in the chair has strongly condemned the life attempt on a video journalist of NETV Nameirakpam Bishorjit …

A joint meeting of All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union and editors held at Manipur Press Club today afternoon with AMWJU president A Mobi Singh in the chair has strongly condemned the life attempt on a video journalist of NETV Nameirakpam Bishorjit Taton Singh by some armed persons who came in a car last night Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=7&src=060811

Border liasion meeting discusses to curb insurgency

The Indo Myanmar Border Liaison Meeting deliberated on steps to curb the activities of insurgent groups on both sides of the border and ways of strengthening the military cooperation between two countries Source Hueiyen News Service

The Indo Myanmar Border Liaison Meeting deliberated on steps to curb the activities of insurgent groups on both sides of the border and ways of strengthening the military cooperation between two countries Source Hueiyen News Service

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=22&src=060811

Drivers may suspend service

On account of the highly violent general strike on NH 39, the Manipur Drivers’ Welfare Association has hinted at possible suspension of all goods carrier service in case the Government does not make necessary arrangement for providing adequate security…

On account of the highly violent general strike on NH 39, the Manipur Drivers’ Welfare Association has hinted at possible suspension of all goods carrier service in case the Government does not make necessary arrangement for providing adequate security cover including enhanced ROP duty without any delay Source The Sangai Express

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‘Will never endorse demand of SHDDC’ TKS refutes SHDDC’s claim Demands exgratia for deceased girl

The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong TKS has strongly refuted the claim of SHDDC’s claim that the deceased Yaireiphi Lungleng was a blockade supporter is totally mala fide and untrue, while terming the demand for Sadar Hill district as unjustifiable Sourc…

The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong TKS has strongly refuted the claim of SHDDC’s claim that the deceased Yaireiphi Lungleng was a blockade supporter is totally mala fide and untrue, while terming the demand for Sadar Hill district as unjustifiable Source Hueiyen News Service Pamreiso Shimray

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=18&src=060811

Kim Gangte questions agenda of Govt

Former MP and president of Manipur Pradesh Trinamool Congress Kim Gangte has questioned what hidden agenda the State Government has behind its failure of meeting the over 40 year old demand for upgradation of Sadar Hills to a full fledged revenue distr…

Former MP and president of Manipur Pradesh Trinamool Congress Kim Gangte has questioned what hidden agenda the State Government has behind its failure of meeting the over 40 year old demand for upgradation of Sadar Hills to a full fledged revenue district from the point of administrative convenience Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=5&src=060811

School students protest terror attack

Almost all the schools located in the valley districts of Manipur staged protest demonstrations and rallies decrying the Sangakpham bomb attack which claimed the lives of two young students along with three others in addition to injuring eight people …

Almost all the schools located in the valley districts of Manipur staged protest demonstrations and rallies decrying the Sangakpham bomb attack which claimed the lives of two young students along with three others in addition to injuring eight people Source The Sangai Express

Read more / Original news source: http://e-pao.net/ge.asp?heading=14&src=060811