As the blessed month of Ramadan bids us farewell, we find ourselves on the doorstep of another chapter in the Islamic calendar – the month of Shawwal. But what makes Shawwal so special? Let’s find out!
As parents, we desire for our children to learn and embrace the teachings of Islam, from its prayers, practices, beliefs, and good deeds. For the month of Shawwal, there is no better month to start cultivating these teachings in your children.
Shawwal is the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, it follows the holy month of Ramadan, wherein Muslims perform fasting, engage in acts of worship, and ask forgiveness from Allah SWT. On the other hand, Shawwal brings another beautiful month of continuous acts of worship and reflection. This month, we, Muslims, get the chance to extend our gratitude beyond the month of Ramadan.
While we reflect on the mercy and blessings provided to us by The Almighty, we must understand the significance and wisdom behind the month of Shawwal. This month is no ordinary month in the Islamic calendar, as it gives us, Muslims, the perfect time to extend our heartfelt gratitude not just for the blessings we received during Ramadan but for the countless favors granted to us by Allah SWT.
The beautiful month of Shawwal begins in the observance of Eid Al-Fitr, a celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. As Muslims, it’s sad to bid Ramadan goodbye as we don’t know if we will be granted to experience the next, however, with Shawwal, Allah SWT has given us another opportunity to cultivate gratitude in our hearts. It is a time where our families come together, share meals, exchange gifts, and perform acts of worship, all while expressing gratitude for the blessings of Allah SWT.
As parents, we also strive to instill in our children the value of gratitude, and Shawwal provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Through storytelling, we share with them the significance of this blessed month, making them understand its essence.
Shawwal is not just gratitude towards Allah; it’s also extending that gratitude to other people. It’s about reaching out to those less fortunate, helping other people, and spreading kindness wherever we go.
As we welcome another sacred month, may we be reminded of the words of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, “The one who fasts in Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasts for a lifetime.” These six days of fasting in Shawwal serve as a means of drawing closer to Allah and as a testament to our gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan.
As we enter Shawwal, let us teach our children the importance of being grateful for the things we receive, both big and small. The concept of gratitude might seem difficult to instill in our children, especially when we experience unfortunate events in our lives, however, making them understand its depth and incorporating Islamic ways in their daily lives can make it easier.
May the month of Shawwal bring your families closer to Allah SWT and let us carry its light throughout the year.