... Urges the wealthy to give to the less privileged
By Adebisi Mustapha
Ustaz Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad, a veteran journalist popularly known as Dan Jarida, has called on all Muslim faithful to intensify their efforts towards serving their Maker in truth and spirit, and to abstain from material desires during this holy month of Ramadan and beyond.
He made this call during a Ramadan lecture titled "The Significance of the Month of Ramadan," organized by Hasseeb Achievers Academy, Kaduna.
Dan Jarida highlighted the spiritual benefits of fasting during the month of Ramadan, describing it as a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion, during which Muslims spend extra time reading the Qur’an and performing special prayers.
He added that fasting is the distinctive feature of the month of Ramadan. Observing the fast entails purifying oneself from all acts forbidden in the Holy Quran or deeds that are contrary to the tenets of Islam. The entire month is steeped in devotion, adoration, and service to Allah in truth and spirit, devoid of material desires.
Speaking about the spiritual benefits of fasting, Sharifudeen noted, “The key spiritual benefit of fasting in Islam is the development of Taqwa, or mindfulness of Allah (SWT). Fasting fosters self-discipline and reminds Muslims to act in ways that please Allah (SWT). This mindfulness helps believers strengthen their connection with their Creator.”
The speaker stressed that fasting during Ramadan also serves as a means to earn immense rewards in the afterlife. It is reported that there are eight gates to Jannah, one of which is Ar-Rayyan, reserved exclusively for those who fast sincerely for the sake of Allah (SWT).
“Through fasting, Muslims fulfill an essential act of worship that brings them closer to Allah (SWT), highlighting the numerous benefits of fasting during Ramadan as a way to purify the soul and seek Allah's mercy.
“The benefits of fasting in Islam extend beyond spiritual gains to include physical advantages. Fasting during Ramadan allows the digestive system to rest, helps flush out toxins from the body, and promotes better overall health. Studies have shown that fasting can reduce stress, prevent chronic diseases, improve mood, and enhance mental alertness. Doctors agree that fasting is extremely beneficial for lowering cholesterol levels and for other health benefits,” Sharifudeen noted.
Dan Jarida called on well-to-do individuals in the community to extend hands of fellowship and philanthropic gestures to the needy and less privileged in society who hardly eat one square meal a day. He also charged students of the Academy to be dedicated and obedient to their parents, tutors, and elders.
While giving his vote of thanks, the School Administrator and the Danmalikin Tudun Wada, Malam Bashir Nuhu Abdullahi, expressed his gratitude to the guest speaker, Malam Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad Dan Jarida, for an in-depth presentation.
He said it was a thought-provoking lecture on the significance of Ramadan, which will benefit students and the community in general.
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