N.U. ABDUL RAZACK UDAYAR
COLOMBO The religion of Islam is strongly built upon five pillars. As a matter of fact, they are the core practices and basic foundations of a true Muslim. They are namely, first, Shahadha, the Declaration of Faith, second Salah, the prayer, third Zakath, the arms giving, fourth, Sawm, fasting and fifth Hajj the pilgrimage.
For this year, 2026, Fasting commenced on Thursday 18th February in Sri Lanka. It is a mercy and a blessing for the whole mankind. Hence a Reflection on each day will be useful for us to get the maximum benefits of this month. The very first day is not just a day in the calendar but the gateway to great mercy and blessings.
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim).
As Almighty Allah offers this big reward on the day of opening it is the bounden duty of every Muslim to take over a new leaf to do good deeds and abide by the obligations to the letter.
Let us piously make a renewal to welcome this month of mercy. Obviously it can be done through spiritual development and showing the great qualities our fellow friends irrespective of their cast, race or religion. As far as the spiritual development is concerned, Almighty Allah expect us to do our duties not as mere rituals but with deep devotion. For instance special night prayer Tharaveeh is performed congregationally in every colony, village or city. The active participation of all of us in this prayer helps us reap rich rewards. Today the Cost of Living in this country is high and many poor families may find it difficult to keep the home fires burning. Therefore helping them will really get the high satisfaction of Allah the Almighty. It is apt look at the following Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while the neighbor to his side goes hungry”. This authentic (Sahih) Hadith emphasizes the obligation of caring for neighbors, suggesting that true faith requires sharing food and ensuring neighbors are not starving, even if it means sacrificing one’s own comfort. There is another dimension in this words of prophet. The neighbor can be of a different faith. You should never hesitate to feed them as Islam gives pride of place to equality. “Well begun is half done” Let us honour the month of Ramadhan with our virtues.
February 20, 2026
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