Author unknown

This article was send in by Zainab Zakari, jazak Allahu khayran.

The knot of relationship between the Month of Fasting (Ramadan) and the Book of Guidance (Al-Qur'an) are tied in the heavens. Some scholars have also said that the Qur'an was sent from a higher heaven to a lower heaven (ready for the commencement of the Earthly revelation in piecemeal) in the month of Ramadan. However, it is well acknowledged that the revelation of the Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad began in the month of Ramadan in the Cave of Hira where he used to make an annual retreat. "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)…." (Qur'an 2 verse 185).

The importance of this relationship is further strengthened with the knowledge that Arc-Angel Jibril would visit the Prophet every night in Ramadan to recite the Qur'an together: "…in the month of Ramadan when Jibril visited him, and Jibril used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet used to recite the Qur'an to Jibril, and when Jibril met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind (which causes rain and welfare)." (Bukhari)

The more reason we are encouraged to read and study the Qur'an in this blessed month is because Ramadan intends to make us closer to the Qur'an. It wants to make us a part of their union because whoever studies and abide by the Qur'an will no doubt attain the goal of Ramadan (self-restraints, piety and noble conducts. This is because the Qur’an is guidance, mercy and protection all packed for the adornment of the believer. "And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims)." (Qur'an 16 verse 89) 

The days and nights of Ramadan should be filled with the recitation of the Qur’an and reflection on its meaning. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Verily, Allah elevates some people with this Qur'an and humiliates others by it." (Muslim)

The Qur'an will also elevate its reciters on the Day of Judgement. Allah’s Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The one who was devoted to the Qur'an will be told on the Day of Judgement: ‘Recite and ascend (in Ranks) as you used to recite when you were on earth. Your rank (station) will be at the last verse you recite." (Abu Dawud & Tirmidhi)

Further, it will also intercede for its reciters on the day when we would require all help. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Recite the Qur’an for indeed it will come on the day of judgement as an intercessor for its Ashaab (those who read, memorize and implement it)". (Muslim)

In order to benefit from the gift of the Qur'an, we have to recite it (avoid reading too fast, remember we have been instructed to "…recite the Qur’an (aloud) in a slow, (pleasant tone and) style." (Qur'an 73 verse 4). Follow the etiquettes of reciting it, which includes being in a state of wuduu, correct pronunciation, seeking refuge from Shaytan). Then we have to memorise it (the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best amongst you is the one who learns the Qur’an and teaches it" [Bukhari]).

Finally, we have to live the Qur'an (the Prophet himself was described as the Walking Qur'an by his wife, Aishah). The Qur’an was revealed to be recited, respected, understood and internalised. So, don’t just recite the Qur’an in Ramadan, memorise it, digest it and live it!