We kindly invite you to read this article o<n Ramadan from 2022 by Fethullah Gülen
Watching television screens, reading newspapers, and listening to the news fills us with anxiety and despair about the role of religion in the era of globalization and about the relationship between East and West. It often seems that, in these troubled times, the term religion has been appropriated by those who promote its opposite—namely ideological and political disputes, conflict, and struggle.
Yet we must not succumb to despair. We must continue to think positively and hold on to hope. In a time marked not only by unprecedented levels of international antagonism but also by an increasing departure from spiritual and ethical values, it is deeply encouraging to see how many people from different faith communities strive tirelessly to reverse this trend of self-destruction by building bridges of reconciliation and peace across cultures, religions, and civilizations. All of them seek to prevent what has been popularly termed a clash of civilizations.
Authentically religious individuals—those committed to cultivating spirituality, compassion, and respect for others—cannot allow religion to be misused by ideologues who exclude and divide. We must work together in the struggle for peace, dialogue, mutual respect, and justice. We must acknowledge religious diversity and recognize that no single religion can claim a monopoly on Truth. Today, as we face globalization, global warming, AIDS, pandemics, poverty, injustice, and other global challenges, we need one another more than ever before. The future of our world depends on teaching students, believers, and our communities the values and benefits of dialogue, cooperation, and interdependence.
In my view, the month of Ramadan is a remarkable opportunity for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to show each other compassion and understanding as we travel together on the path called life. For me, Ramadan is a time when all devout people should increase their efforts to foster good relations between followers of different religions, promote intercultural dialogue, and work together for greater justice and lasting peace in the world. But what, then, is the true spirit of Ramadan?
The Spirit of Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, contemplation, prayer, good deeds, and spending time with family and friends. The purpose of fasting is to help Muslims develop self-discipline, restraint, and generosity. This month also reminds Muslims of the suffering of the poor, who seldom have enough to eat.
Ramadan is also a month of mercy. Muslims are called to show mercy, compassion, generosity, and care for all of God’s creations—toward themselves, toward other human beings, and even toward animals. Human beings are God’s stewards on earth. Participating in and sharing the Ramadan fast creates a shared spiritual space for Muslims around the world and contributes to a special sense of solidarity among them. By sharing the joy of Eid al-Fitr, by giving fitra to those in need, and by donating alms (zakat) to the poor, Muslims help heal social wounds, strengthen relationships, redistribute wealth, and connect with those who lack support. This aspect of Ramadan contributes to the development of a just and compassionate society—one based on giving and sharing, rather than on consumerism and materialism.
The Spiritual Dimension of Ramadan
Spiritually, Ramadan redirects the human heart away from impure actions toward God. Muslims seek God’s forgiveness and mercy. Purity of thought and action is a paramount value. Believers strive to deepen their awareness of God, and during Ramadan they often experience the inner peace that comes from piety and from a sense of kinship with fellow believers.
Ramadan is a time of inner reflection—of contemplating the meaning of life and one’s place in the world. It is a month of repentance, spiritual renewal, and mercy. By distancing themselves from bodily desires, the faithful reach a greater degree of control over their senses and thus draw closer to God.
Muslims around the world should view Ramadan as a wonderful opportunity to bring together followers of different religions and people from all professions for the common good—to strengthen humanity, spirituality, and love within us. This will lift us from pessimism to ultimate optimism, guide us from darkness to light, and carry us from winter to spring. In a time of senseless destruction, this spiritual foundation of hope can help us rediscover the ultimate purpose of life and our journey through this world.
May God accept our fasting, forgive our sins, and guide us all on the Straight Path. May God bless us during Ramadan, make us instruments of peace, and grant us the strength to strive for a world that is just, compassionate, and in harmony with His forgiveness, mercy, and peace. May He draw us nearer to Himself and bring all of us closer to one another.
Fethullah Gülen
