English

QCF V2

Mahmoud Khaleel Al-Husary

Ibn Kathir (Abridged)

IslamHouse.com

Persian

This easy-to-follow inspirational Learning Plan by Shaykh Hammad Fahim and A. Siddiqui shares practical advice and helpful tips on how to maintain the momentum of Ramadan even after Ramadan has come to an end. Avoid the post-Ramadan “slump” and use the progress gained in Ramadan as a foundation to propel you further along on your journey!
Topics Covered:
<ul>
<li>Reflecting on Ramadan</li>
<li>Renewing our Intentions: Cultivating a Growth Mindset</li>
<li>When Temptations Return</li>
<li>Connecting Deeply with the Quran</li>
<li>And more!</li>
</ul>
Ready to embark on a journey that will help you keep going and growing beyond Ramadan? Begin today! We will help you track your progress until you’re done.
We'd love to hear your feedback: <a href="mailto:learningplans@quran.com">learningplans@quran.com</a>

Imagine building a home, with mortar and bricks, designing each room, and decorating its interior and exterior, only then to abandon it. No doubt this would be a counterproductive thing to do. Similarly, in Ramadan, we prayed qiyam (night prayer), fasted an entire month and built up good habits for the purpose of making taqwa (God-consciousness)—our home. Now is not the time to unravel the good we have collected, by abandoning the teachings of Ramadan and leaving this home. Allah reminds us in the Quran that Ramadan was a short-term exercise designed to leave us with life long benefits. Allah says:
<blockquote>
“[Fasting for] a limited number of days” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:184">2:184</a>).
</blockquote>
Allah describes the long term consequence of fasting, which is to become more mindful of Allah. This purpose is not limited to Ramadan, of course, as our renewed sense of mindfulness is now to continue throughout our lives and in all situations, helping us to observe and fulfill our duties as believers in seeking the pleasure of Allah.
<blockquote>
“You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:183">2:183</a>)
</blockquote>
The Quran reminds us that having taqwa is a lifelong pursuit and we are to die in a state of submission.
<blockquote>
“O believers! Be mindful of Allah in the way He deserves, and do not die except in ˹a state of full˺ submission ˹to Him˺” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:102">3:102</a>).
</blockquote>
Further, Allah describes the long term consequence of fasting - which is to become more mindful of Allah. This purpose is not limited to Ramadan, of course, as our renewed sense of mindfulness is now to continue indefinitely, helping us to observe and fulfill our duties as believers in seeking the pleasure of Allah.
<blockquote>
“You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:183">2:183</a>)
</blockquote>
Begin with Gratitude
Allah reminds us that another objective of Ramadan is to instill in us a sense of gratitude,
<blockquote>
&quot;Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the standard ˹to distinguish between right and wrong˺. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:185">2:185</a>)
</blockquote>
Let’s begin our post-Ramadan journey with gratitude to Allah. We must acknowledge and appreciate the countless blessings bestowed upon us generally, and during the sacred month more specifically; the opportunity of cleansing our bodies and souls through fasting and engaging in acts of worship, to the moments of clarity and experiencing moments of inner peace and a heightened state of God-consciousness (Taqwa) to simply having the blessing of food and water to break our fasts. Pause for a moment to consider those who have never experienced the joy and benefits of Ramadan, and who miss out on its blessings entirely, being completely unaware of the existence of Laylat ul Qadr (Night of Power)! And think of those who endured grave circumstances, torn from their homes, and experienced great losses, deprived of basic necessities during this sacred month, and yet they still observed fasting in Ramadan. It is imperative that we take time to thank Allah for blessings we have received, and that we continue to support those who are suffering and make dua for them beyond Ramadan.
Seeking Acceptance:
<blockquote>
“Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:127">2:127</a>)
</blockquote>
The term &quot;acceptance&quot; in this verse, in Arabic &quot;taqabbul&quot;, implies the act of dedicating something to another and humbly seeking approval of its acceptance by our Creator, despite any imperfections or deficiencies. This verse relates to the supplication made by Ibrahim and Ismael (peace be upon them) after they had reconstructed the Ka’bah. Imam Al Razi In his explanation of this verse, highlights that the plea for acceptance expresses the individual's earnest effort in seeking approval from Allah, especially when the deed is incomplete and unworthy of acceptance. It serves as an acknowledgment of our shortcomings, weaknesses, and submission in our actions.
Reflect on your actions and intentions throughout Ramadan. Did you fulfill your obligations with sincerity and devotion? Seek forgiveness for any shortcomings or mistakes committed during Ramadan. Make sincere dua (supplication) asking Allah to accept your fasting, prayers, charity, and good deeds.
Our dedication in the beginning of Ramadan may have started with a high level of motivation, and somewhere in Ramadan, we may have started to slack off. Perhaps we became less focused in our prayer, or in our remembrance of Allah and similar. By asking Allah to accept our actions, despite its flaws, means that we are asking Allah to overlook the flaws and imperfections in our worship and that He accepts it due to His Mercy, and not the quality of our actions.
<h3>“By asking Allah to accept our actions, despite its flaws, means that we are asking Allah to overlook the shortcomings and imperfections in our worship and that He accepts it due to His Mercy, and not the quality of our actions.”</h3>
<blockquote>
“Whatever good you store up for yourselves will be improved and increased for you. Ask God for His forgiveness, He is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/73:20">73:20</a>)
</blockquote>
Seal the deal by seeking forgiveness after completing any righteous action.
The Quran in verse: <a href="https://quran.com/73:20">73:20</a> states, “Whatever good you store up for yourselves will be improved and increased for you. Ask God for His forgiveness, He is most forgiving, most merciful.” This verse highlights that we should not become over confident when we carry out good deeds, that we should seek Allah’s forgiveness upon the conclusion of any good action, as seeking forgiveness expresses our humility and sincerity in devoting ourselves to Allah, while recognizing that our worship is far from  perfect. We find a similar instruction to the Prophet (peace be upon him), after the conquest of Makkah. Despite the monumental success of the Prophet’s mission  (peace be upon him) in propagating Islam, and that his enemies had now come into the folds of Islam,  Allah instructs the Prophet to seek Allah’s forgiveness:
<blockquote>
“When the victory of Allāh has come and the conquest. And you see the people entering into the religion of Allāh in multitudes.
Then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him.
Indeed, He is ever Accepting of Repentance.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/110:1-3">110:1-3</a>).
</blockquote>
Lastly, the Zakat al  fitr (Charity of Eid ul Fitr) has been likened to the prostration of forgetfulness (sajdah-al sahw). When we fall short of one of the conditions of prayer, the sunnah is to prostrate with a further two units as it rectifies the mistake in prayer. In a similar vein the Zakat al fitr is a way of seeking to rectify any flaws in our worship this Ramadan. Moreover, beyond Ramadan, we should attempt to continue to keep up giving charity, as it is a cleansing for our soul and as a way of filling in any of the voids in our worship.
Assessing Spiritual Growth:
Reflect on your spiritual progress during Ramadan. Hopefully you would have developed better habits, increased your knowledge of Islam, or in one way or another, strengthened your connection with Allah.  Consider what factors contributed to this progress and how you can sustain them. If you feel you could have done better, reflect on the areas you need to improve on. What were the roadblocks? What could you have done differently? Set realistic goals for ongoing spiritual growth beyond Ramadan and begin building habits now so that you reach the next Ramadan in a higher state of Iman (faith). We will discuss this in more detail in the next lesson.
<h3>“Set realistic goals for ongoing spiritual growth beyond Ramadan and begin building habits now so that you reach the next Ramadan in a higher state of Iman (faith)”</h3>
Beginning a New Chapter
Although this Ramadan has come to an end, remember that the opportunity for growth has not ceased with its passing. The chance to improve and deepen our connection with Allah continues until our last breath.
Allah SWT reminds us:
<blockquote>
“Strive for ˹the cause of˺ Allah in the way He deserves, for ˹it is˺ He ˹Who˺ has chosen you, and laid upon you no hardship in the religion—the way of your forefather Abraham. ˹It is Allah˺ Who named you ‘the ones who submit’1 ˹in the˺ earlier ˹Scriptures˺ and in this ˹Quran˺, so that the Messenger may be a witness over you, and that you may be witnesses over humanity. So establish prayer, pay alms-tax, and hold fast to Allah. He ˹alone˺ is your Guardian. What an excellent Guardian, and what an excellent Helper!” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/22:78">22:78</a>).
</blockquote>
As stated by the great lexicologist Al Raghib Al-Asfhani, the term ‘Jihad’ or struggle refers to اسْتِفْراغُ الوُسْعِ في مُدافَعَةِ العَدُوِّ
“It is exerting one’s best efforts in overcoming the enemy”. The real struggle which we find challenging to maintain is controlling our desires, lusts and egos. Ramadan creates the best time and environment for us to thwart our desires, and to weaken these impulses, but the struggle now continues.
Every moment of existence is an opportunity to draw closer to Him, enriching our soul’s journey until the end of our days. Let us carry the lessons learned during Ramadan forward with gratitude, seeking acceptance for our efforts, and striving for continuous improvement in our faith and deeds. May Allah bless us with strength, guidance, and steadfastness on the straight path. Ameen.
From Fast to Steadfast
Make a note of the good habits you gained this Ramadan and how you plan on sustaining these until the next Ramadan. It may be that you were more patient in Ramadan, or you gave more charity. Ask yourself, “what motivated me to do this?” Now ask yourself, “how can I sustain that motivation permanently?”
Remember, the worship of Allah and observing His rights upon us and constantly seeking His pleasure, requires for us to patient and steadfast as Allah tells us:
<blockquote>
“˹He is the˺ Lord of the heavens, and the earth, and everything in between. So worship Him ˹alone˺, and be steadfast in His worship. Do you know of anyone equal to Him ˹in His attributes˺?” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/19:65">19:65</a>).
</blockquote>
This verse reminds us to remain steadfast in worshipping Allah. This call is coupled with the fact that Allah is the Master of the heavens and the earth, and He sustains us everyday blessing us with health, nourishing food and drink and sustaining His entire creation, He is deserving of our worship and that we remain steadfast in His worship.
Sufyan bin Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
&quot;I said, 'O Messenger of Allah, tell me something about Islam which I can ask of no one but you.' He (peace be upon him) said, 'Say &quot;I believe in Allah&quot; — and then be steadfast.'&quot; [Muslim]
You are welcome to share your Ramadan insights and engage with others' reflections on QuranReflect by using the hashtag <a href="https://quranreflect.com/?tags=%23RamadanTaughtMe">#RamadanTaughtMe</a>

Reflecting on Ramadan

As we step into the post-Ramadan phase, let us pray that things can change for the better. As humans we are able to develop new habits and, through discipline, let go of bad habits. If you went back to your old ways after previous Ramadans, know that the past doesn't have to repeat itself. This time around, we have the chance to rewrite our stories, to make it different, and to make it better. Remember any good you do only enriches you. Allah reminds us:
<blockquote>
“Whoever does good, it is to their own benefit. And whoever does evil, it is to their own loss. Your Lord is never unjust to ˹His˺ creation.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/41:46">41:46</a>)
</blockquote>
Every day is a fresh opportunity to make positive changes and to keep collecting those rewards which will weigh heavily on our scale of good deeds insha’Allah. Remember Allah says, “and the future will be better for you than the past;” (Quran 93:4). Embrace the journey ahead with optimism and determination. By steadfastly refusing to revert to old habits and behaviors that have held us back from being the best we can, let us make a sincere and firm intention to lasting transformation.
Fasting in Shawwal
Abu Aiyub Al-Ansari narrated that The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: &quot;Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime.&quot; (Muslim)
This hadith emphasizes the significance and rewards of fasting six days of Shawwal after Ramadan. It's like a bonus opportunity to earn immense blessings and rewards from Allah. By fasting these additional days voluntarily, we not only continue the momentum of Ramadan but also demonstrate our commitment to maintaining the discipline and self-restraint cultivated during Ramadan throughout the year.
Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the value of voluntary acts of worship, reinforcing the idea that our devotion to Allah extends beyond the obligatory rituals, shifting our mindset towards actively seeking opportunities to deepen our connection with Him.
Although there are differing opinions regarding fasting six days of Shawwal, the prevailing view, as articulated by Ibn Qudamah (620 AH), suggests that fasting these days is akin to fasting a full year. This is due to the multiplication of each fast by at least 10, thus fasting in Shawwal alongside the 30 days of Ramadan completes the cycle for the entire year (see Tahrir ul Aqwal fi Sawm Al Sitti Min Shawwal- Qatlubugha, Darussalam)
Steady Steps Forward: Nurturing a Mindset Grounded in Consistency
<h3>&quot;The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 'Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.'&quot; (Sunan Ibn Majah)</h3>
This profound hadith highlights the importance of consistency in Islam. It teaches us that while we should strive to do good deeds, it's essential to do them regularly, even if they are small in quantity. This principle emphasizes that true devotion is found in the steadfast commitment to righteousness in our daily lives, rather than in sporadic bursts of effort. A mindset focused on consistency reflects our sincerity and our dedication to living in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
It empowers us to follow through on what we have learned in Ramadan and act upon the guidance of our faith, knowing that regardless of how or what we feel in a given moment, remaining consistent will elevate us in the sight of Allah, because we have dedicated our lives, wholeheartedly upon the straight path, the path of the Prophets, the path of justice, the path of the fitrah, and ultimately the path to Jannah. If one wants to enact the dua we make in Al -Fatihah, “Guide us to the straight path”, it necessitates that we remain consistent, because traversing a straight path always requires consistency in direction. Allah says:
<blockquote>
“this is My path, leading straight, so follow it, and do not follow other ways: they will lead you away from it- ‘ This is what He commands you to do, so that you may refrain from wrongdoing.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/6:153">6:153</a>)
</blockquote>
Activity:
Note down good habits you started in Ramadan, or the habits which you intend to start after Ramadan. Now think about the realistic level of commitment you can give to this new habit so that it remains sustainable throughout the year.

Renewing our Intentions: Cultivating a Growth Mindset

In Ramadan, we often shed many of our bad habits and sins. But now that Ramadan is over, it might feel like those old habits are calling us back. Maybe a part of us was even looking forward to going back to them once Ramadan ended. Compounding this problem also is the fact that shaytan is now released back to tempt us again into sinning. But let's not see the end of Ramadan as a signal to return to old ways. Instead, let's see it as a fresh start—a chance to keep growing and improving. Remember how disciplined you were during Ramadan, not even drinking a few drops of water when the thirst became intense. Hold onto that strength as you face the internal and external challenges ahead. When our temptations engulf us, remember the dua Allah has taught in seeking Allah’s assistance to prevent us from falling into sin:
<blockquote>
“Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate after You have guided us. Grant us Your mercy: You are the Ever Giving” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:8">3:8</a>).
</blockquote>
Allahumma Ameen!
Safeguard against temptations
When faced with temptation, we must remember to seek refuge from shaytan and ask Allah for help. But it’s also our responsibility to safeguard our souls by actively making an effort to avoid situations or behaviors that may lead us astray. Be mindful and recognize the temptations that steer us towards sin and the environments that foster bad habits.
The Quran makes it clear that shaytan has no power over those who believe and who place their reliance upon Allah.
<blockquote>
“He certainly has no authority over those who believe and put their trust in their Lord. His authority is only over those who take him as a patron and who—under his influence—associate ˹others˺ with Allah ˹in worship˺’” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/16:99-100">16:99-100</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3>“...it’s also our responsibility to safeguard our souls by actively making an effort to avoid situations or behaviors that may lead us astray.”</h3>
If we know that certain groups of friends have a tendency to gossip and speak ill of others, in order to avoid being complicit in the same, you may wish to mitigate the risks of falling into the trap of backbiting simply by being open and honest about their actions and how this makes you feel. If a particular phone application causes you to slip and fall into temptation, delete the application and seek out alternatives that do not have a detrimental impact on your soul. If staying up late on the phone, eating junk food and watching netflix leads you to miss your Fajr prayers, then mitigate this by avoiding or setting limits on these triggers. By understanding these influences, we can take steps to remove them from our lives as much as possible, while making an effort to replace them with better habits and environments. Let us take an example from the life of Joseph (peace be upon him), who realized that the only way to remove himself from temptation is for Allah to remove him from the environment of temptation. This is captured in the dua in which he says:
<blockquote>
“Joseph said, ‘My Lord! I would prefer prison to what these women are calling me to do. If You do not protect me from their treachery, I shall yield to them and do wrong’” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/12:33">12:33</a>)
</blockquote>
Be quick to turn back to Him
<blockquote>
&quot;And whoever repents and does good has truly turned to Allah properly.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/25:71">25:71</a>)
</blockquote>
If we find ourselves returning back to old habits, remember to turn back to Allah soon afterwards, lest we become complacent and dismissive about disobeying Allah SWT  (The Glorified, the Most High)says:
<blockquote>
“But God only undertakes to accept repentance from those who do evil out of ignorance and soon afterwards repent: these are the ones God will forgive, He is all knowing, all wise.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/4:17">4:17</a>)
</blockquote>
Further to ensure that our sins are replaced with deeds, not only should we repent, we can also wipe out our mistake by following this up with a good deed such as offering two rakah’s (units) of voluntary prayers. Allah SWT (The Glorified, the Most High) says:
<blockquote>
“[Prophet], keep up the prayer at both ends of the day, and during parts of the night, for good things drive bad away- this is a reminder for those who are aware.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/11:114">11:114</a>)
</blockquote>
Similarly giving charity after sinning, purifies us of the sins committed, Allah says:
<blockquote>
“In order to cleanse and purify them [Prophet], accept a gift out of their property [to make amends] and pray for them- your prayer will be a comfort to them. God is all hearing, all knowing.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/9:103">9:103</a>).
</blockquote>
Allah gives us assurance that He most definitely accepts our repentance, and receives our charity:
<blockquote>
“Do they not know that it is God Himself who accepts repentance from His servants and receives what is given freely for His sake? He is always ready to accept repentance, most merciful.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/9:104">9:104</a>)
</blockquote>

When Temptations Return

Ramadan may have left, but it hasn’t left us with our hearts empty. It came and left us with an improved heart and mindset. And now with these improvements, we can continue to enrich our hearts and minds by studying and benefitting from Allah’s words. Allah says:
<blockquote>
“This is the Scripture in which there is no doubt, containing guidance for those who are mindful of God,” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:2">2:2</a>)
</blockquote>
It’s a key time to think back on your relationship with the Quran in Ramadan and to ask introspective questions:
How was your relationship with the Quran during Ramadan? How can I carry on with the same commitment throughout the year?
<ul>
<li>How often did you engage with its teachings, either through recitation, reflection, or study? No doubt, Ramadan is conducive for the study of the Quran and its reflection, but our hearts do not just yearn for the light and guidance of the Quran in Ramadan, it is a life-long journey.</li>
<li>Did you strive to understand its messages on a deeper level, pondering over its meanings and implications for your life?</li>
<li>Did you encounter any specific insights which helped shape your character and iman? How will this now take effect permanently? Remember Allah gives glad tidings to those who not only listened to the Quran, but they followed through by acting upon its guidance.</li>
</ul>
Allah SWT says:
<blockquote>
“...So give good news to My servants ˹O Prophet˺ those who listen to what is said and follow the best of it. These are the ones ˹rightly˺ guided by Allah, and these are ˹truly˺ the people of reason.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/39:17-18">39:17-18</a>)
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Were you consistent in your Quranic routines, or did distractions hinder your connection? Whatever the case, plan in advance for the following year to embrace the coming Ramdan with a more focussed plan and inshaAllah in this way you can go from strength to strength in each successive Ramadan.</li>
<li>Did you choose and stick to a program that helped you grow, or did you move from one thing to the next randomly? Yes Ramadan is a busy month and we often juggle a lot of commitments. The best way to have an effective program in Ramadan, is to already have a habitual program throughout the year, and with this you can transition into Ramadan and build on it. For example, you can start by committing to the Quran in Year program on Quran.com (Quran.com/calendar)[https://quran.com/calendar].</li>
</ul>
Take a moment to ponder these questions, as they serve as a compass for nurturing and strengthening your bond with the Quran throughout the year.
  
What would have helped you? Can you accomplish this before the next Ramadan?
Looking ahead to the coming months and next Ramadan, what do you think would help you strengthen your connection with the Quran? Are there specific resources, habits, or support systems that you believe would make a difference? By identifying what could have helped you and what you need for the future, you can better prepare to make the most of your next Ramadan, insha’Allah.
What beneficial resources can help me?
Alhamdulillah, Quran.com is rich in resources to support your continued growth on your journey with the Quran. You can explore features like viewing tafsir (exegesis) and reflections at the ayah level, customizing your settings for a comfortable reading experience, accessing word-by-word translation, setting goals, maintaining a reading streak, and much more—all directly on the site. Also, be sure to check out the other Learning Plans available alongside this one.
Quran.com has recently added two new beneficial features to enrich your Quran journey: the “Notes &amp; Reflections” feature and “Quran in a Year”. &quot;Quran in a Year&quot; is a reading schedule designed to encourage reflective reading of the entire Quran from the end of one Ramadan to the beginning of the next. [Learn more: <a href="https://quran.com/calendar">Quran.com/calendar</a>]
QuranReflect is another great resource to help you remain connected with the Quran. QuranReflect, along with Quran.com, is a part of the Quran.Foundation family. It is a social platform for sharing personal reflections on the Quran, encouraging users to internalize its messages and share insights that inspire positive change. Unlike tafsir, which is a scholarly interpretation, reflections are personal thoughts and experiences related to the verses. User posts to QuranReflect are reviewed and moderated by a qualified team, who will help ensure quality of content, etiquettes when interacting with the Quran, and they will empower users by sharing feedback and highlighting valuable discourse thus fostering a spiritually uplifting, Quran-focused community. Learn more: <a href="https://quranreflect.com/faq">Quranreflect.com/faq</a>
Explore these features and dedicate yourself to deeper, higher-quality engagement with the Quran.

Connecting Deeply with the Quran

An important part of succeeding in any area of life is to have an optimistic outlook and to remain steadfast as you journey towards your goals. The same applies to our post-Ramadan journey. Many of us may lack a support network that uplifts us and pushes us to improve, however we cannot let this deficiency hold us back from making progress. In something as important as our soul's wellbeing, we can’t afford to be passive and always wait for an outside force to push us. Rather than giving into feelings of despondency or discouragement, focus on your Lord, who is your source of strength
<blockquote>
“Say, ‘[God says], My servants who have harmed yourselves by your own excess, do not despair of God’s mercy. God forgives all sins: He is truly the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/39:53">39:53</a>)
</blockquote>
Remember, Allah is Al-Mujeeb (The Responsive), Allah says:
<blockquote>
‘Who is it that answers the distressed when they call upon Him? Who removes their suffering? Who makes you successors in the earth? Is it another god beside God? Little notice you take!’ (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/27:62">27:62</a>)
</blockquote>
Allah is Al-Hadi (The Guide), guiding and helping you through every step of your life.
<blockquote>
“Who is it that guides you through the darkness on land and sea? Who sends the winds as heralds of good news before His mercy? Is it another god beside God? God is far above the partners they put beside him!” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/27:63">27:63</a>)
</blockquote>
These soul-comforting verses highlight Allah’s care for us, that He is ready to respond to our earnest needs and He is here to guide us in every step of the way.
Even when it seems like you're facing challenges alone, know that Allah's Mercy is constant. By shifting our mindset from self-pity to self-empowerment, we can build resilience and determination. Take inspiration from the countless stories of believers who overcame adversity through their unwavering faith and perseverance. Trust in Allah's divine plan for you and believe and know that His help is always near. If your mind begins to sound increasingly like the followers of Moses (peace be upon him), as Pharoah and his army were about to crush them, respond like Musa (peace be upon him) with confidence and certainty that your Lord is with you and will guide you.
<blockquote>
&quot;When the two groups came face to face, the companions of Moses cried out, “We are overtaken for sure.” Moses reassured ˹them˺, “Absolutely not! My Lord is certainly with me—He will guide me.”&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/26:61-62">26:61-62</a>)
</blockquote>
Tips for actively seeking out goodness
<ol>
<li>Ask Allah for help, as the Companions of the Cave did, ‘When the young men sought refuge in the cave and said, ‘Our Lord, grant us Your mercy, and find us a good way out of our ordeal,’ (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/18:10">18:10</a>)</li>
<li>Have an optimistic and grateful mindset that Allah will lift you from the darkness and bring you into light and make matters easier for you, as can be seen from the above verse.</li>
<li>Plug yourself into something that will help you stay committed and consistent. For example, volunteer for a recurring activity at your local masjid, sign up for an in-person or online class for an Islamic subject that you need to learn more about, seek out halaqas and lectures in your local community, etc or join a book club (The Divine Book Club video series with Dr. Sohaib Saeed is a great program that you can learn more about in the supplemental resources on <a href="https://quran.com/calendar">Quran.com/calendar</a></li>
<li>Actively seek out good company and maintain hope when some friendships don’t work out. It can be difficult to rebound after disappointments, but continue to pursue good company for the sake of Allah.</li>
</ol>
What is interesting about this point is that Allah commands us to recite the Quran in the following verse (see below), which is then followed up with another verse, instructing us to keep good company. The lesson one may draw from these verses is that since the Prophet (peace be upon him) himself is not exempt from being surrounded good company, then what about the rest of us? It also demonstrates that our individual dedication to Allah’s book should be supported by a community of believers who are committed to Islam.
<blockquote>
“[Prophet], follow what has been revealed to you of your Lord’s Scripture: there is no changing His words, nor can you find any refuge except with Him.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/18:27">18:27</a>)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
“Content yourself with those who pray to their Lord morning and evening, seeking His approval, and do not let your eyes turn away from them out of desire for the attractions of this worldly life: do not yield to those whose hearts We have made heedless of Our Quran, those who follow their own low desires, those whose ways are unbridled.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/18:28">18:28</a>)
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Remember that people aren’t the only type of company our hearts and minds keep, as the late author Khurram Murad (may Allah mercy on him) explains: “Your company also includes your mental and psychological company – the ideas you entertain, the ambitions you nurture, the sensitivities and sensibilities you develop and the books you read. All of these represent a form of company because they are your companions in solitude.” So be careful to actively guard the content you feed to your eyes and ears, and be mindfully on guard with regards to what you allow your heart and mind to dwell upon.</li>
<li>Be willing to go outside of your comfort zone to seek out what is good for you. It’s often said that growth and comfort don’t coexist. Accept that sometimes we will need to make ourselves (our nafs) uncomfortable in order to grow. This is also true if we want to achieve anything in life, and more importantly in the hereafter.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Paradise is surrounded by adversity, and Hellfire is surrounded by lusts.” (Muslim).</h3>
The above hadith teaches us that the journey to Paradise is not always a comfortable one. The believer who strives for ultimate success must remain resilient and faithful in the face of adversity, temptations, and challenges. On the other hand, the path to the Hellfire is an alluring one, inviting one to indulge in comfort, pleasure, and worldly desires without consideration of limits set by Allah.
Map out routines
Without the protection of Ramadan, we become more vulnerable to temptations and giving into our desires. Ask yourself, what is it that prevented me from doing wrong in Ramadan? Was it the fast, or the sacredness of the month? Or was it a heightened awareness of Allah and a closer relationship with the Quran?
Now try and map out a similar routine and plan to preserve the same spirit of Iman (faith) and mindfulness of Allah throughout the rest of the year.

Seek out Goodness

Our individual victories; Our collective victories
<blockquote>
“This community of yours is one- and I am your Lord: be mindful of Me” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/23:52">23:52</a>)
</blockquote>
While we are not fighting in physical battles every day, we are surely fighting internal, spiritual battles on a daily basis. We are told that we are all like one body, one Ummah. But what does this have to do with our private, internal struggles? Within a body, every cell is not going to be aware of what is happening inside of another cell. Even though one part of the body may not be aware of the internal activities of another part of the body, every component of the body is important. The individual components of the body need to function optimally in order for the entire body to function optimally. While you may think that the battle between &quot;you vs. your nafs&quot;, or &quot;you vs. shaytan&quot; is a private struggle that only impacts you, remember that you are part of a larger body of believers. Your victory is my victory. My victory is your victory. Your strength is my strength. My strength is your strength. We are in this together. Never underestimate the value of fighting and winning those internal battles. Never underestimate your value to the Ummah.
This life is fleeting
Ramadan was only a few days and before we knew it, it came to a close so swiftly. This is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life, before we know it, we will be facing the consequences of our deeds before Allah on the day of accountability.
Allah SWT says:
<blockquote>
“Be mindful of the Day when you will ˹all˺ be returned to Allah, then every soul will be paid in full for what it has done, and none will be wronged.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:281">2:281</a>)
</blockquote>
The Quran is ever-lasting
Finally, remember that Ramadan may have left us, but the Quran is ever-lasting as it is the final message from Allah to humanity, and the speech of Allah is from His attributes SWT (The Glorified, the Most High). In this sense, Ramadan has no doubt trained our hearts and minds to become more cognizant of His guidance in order to enrich our souls and our conscience towards becoming more subservient to Allah. The happiness we felt in Ramadan and on Eid was as a result of our hard sacrifice, worship, and dedication to Allah’s revelation. Similarly our ultimate celebration will be in the hereafter, an Eid which will be eternal insha’Allah. But before this, we must continue to strive to remain conscious of Allah as we did in Ramadan, and continue to reorient our lives in accordance with the guidance of the Quran.
We ask Allah, The Most Compassionate, to make us truly devoted to Him, and to allow the light of Ramadan to enlighten our actions, habits and devotion to Him until we meet Him SWT (The Glorified, the Most High).
May Allah accept our deeds, forgive us for our shortcomings and enable us to continue to maintain the momentum of Ramadan. Amen!
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*To read more inspiring lessons and reflections, and to take part in interactive programs from <a href="https://www.quran.foundation/shaykh-hammad-fahim">Shaykh Hammad Fahim,</a>
*A.Siddiqui's QuranReflect profile can be found at: <a href="https://quranreflect.com/amrits">QuranReflect.com/amrits</a>

Conclusion

Feeling a post-Ramadan slump? Learn how to extend the blessings of Ramadan and keep your spiritual momentum going throughout the year with this inspiring guide by Shaykh Hammad Fahim.

Maintaining Your Momentum: Avoiding the Post-Ramadan Slump

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