The Ethics of Muslims During Ramadan
Ramadan serves as a profound educational period for moral conduct, encouraging Muslims to embody commendable Islamic virtues while discarding unfavorable behaviors. Throughout this holy month, reminders of positive morals and warnings against negative traits proliferate. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “Indeed, a believer can attain the rank of the one who fasts and prays at night through his good character.” Among the ethical qualities Muslims should strive to cultivate during Ramadan are the following:
Patience
Ramadan is a time abundant with acts of worship such as prayer, fasting, and night prayers (Taraweeh). It is crucial for Muslims to embrace the virtue of patience, particularly when it comes to their worship. Fasting may present challenges, and the numerous sermons and classes may feel overwhelming at times. Nevertheless, Muslims must adorn themselves with the quality of patience, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) affirmed: “Patience is a light.”
Controlling Anger
The abstention from food and drink during Ramadan can sometimes lead to discomfort and irritability for a fasting person. Additionally, unkind remarks from others can exacerbate feelings of frustration. In such instances, it is essential for Muslims to practice the art of controlling their anger. They should respond in accordance with the teachings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) when he advised the fasting individual, stating: “If any of you is verbally attacked or provoked, let him say: ‘I am fasting, I am fasting.’”
Maintaining Family Ties
Strengthening family bonds is an important act of worship, especially during Ramadan, which is often characterized by gatherings and invitations for Iftar (the meal to break the fast). A Muslim should not be pious in their fasting and prayers while simultaneously severing familial ties. The Almighty Allah has classified those who cut off their relationships as corruptors on Earth, as reflected in His words: “So, have you considered if you turned away that you would cause corruption in the land and sever your ties of kinship?” The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also cautioned against breaking family ties, stating: “There is no sin more deserving of having Allah hasten punishment for its perpetrator in this world, along with what He has reserved for them in the Hereafter, than oppression and cutting family ties.”
God-Consciousness (Taqwa)
Taqwa, or being conscious of Allah, involves taking measures to protect oneself from His punishment. It is the primary purpose of fasting, as mentioned in the Qur’an: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may attain Taqwa.” During Ramadan, one may find distractions that deter them from their religious duties; therefore, it is imperative for fasting Muslims to remain vigilant in their speech, hearing, and sight, as well as in their food and drink.
Avoiding Wastefulness
Wastefulness can manifest as consuming excessive varieties of food that are not necessary. Muslims should also avoid extravagance in their meals and attire. Experiencing hunger during Ramadan does not justify mindless spending and squandering. Allah states: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils.” A spendthrift becomes an ally of evil in their foolish waste of wealth without justification. Excessive wastage transforms Ramadan from a holy month of worship into a period of indulgence rather than one of devotion.
Looking After Those in Need
During Ramadan, spending on food, drinks, and Eid expenses typically surges. Islam obliges Muslims to look after their brethren and emphasizes the importance of not allowing any neighbor to go hungry, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) warned: “Whoever among a community wakes up hungry, has disassociated themselves from the protection of Allah.” Additionally, the Qur’an invites cooperation in righteousness and piety: “And cooperate in righteousness and piety.” Ramadan presents an opportunity for the Islamic community to unite, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion, and mercy are like one body; when one limb suffers, the entire body responds with wakefulness and fever.”
Avoiding Foul Language
The tongue bears a significant role in worship during Ramadan, similar to all other limbs. Its acts of worship include remembrance and glorification of Allah, along with abstaining from vulgar or inappropriate speech. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever does not abandon false speech and acting upon it, Allah has no need for them to abandon their food and drink.” Speaking falsehood and engaging in gossip or slander undermines the value of fasting. What benefit is derived from fasting if one does not strive to abandon falsehood and engage in virtuous honesty?
Honoring Guests
Ramadan is an ideal time for socializing among fasting individuals; therefore, Muslims should extend hospitality to their guests, especially fellow fasting individuals, to the best of their ability without being extravagant. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised: “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should honor their guest.”