Shehnaz Jaffar reflects on how the pandemic has changed her spiritual life.
Covid-19 upended our worlds to reveal some stark lessons — some bitter, some sweet. For better or for worse, we are being forced to contemplate what our choices and actions really mean in our lives. As the world reels under the effects of an unprecedented lockdown, we as Muslims have had our unique lessons and reflections.
A Renewed Look at Zakat
Zakat, or obligatory charity, is such an integral part of Islam, yet, we probably approach it in such a non-spiritual way. What's that percentage, again? When was the best time to give it? Does that guy really deserve our Zakat? Aaaaah, just give it and be done with it, we finally say. But Covid-19 presented a massive financial threat. Many of us, including myself, lost our jobs and sustenance. As a result, calls for Zakat and Sadaqa (voluntary charity) increased from all four sides. Charity collection became a central activity for many of our community organizations. With all this exposure, I for one have made a conscious effort to understand the relevance, rulings and rewards of Zakat.
Speaking Against Prejudice
It is fundamental as Muslims to stand up and speak against injustice and oppression. “Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves, your parents and your relatives, or whether it is against the rich or the poor,” it is said in Verse 135, Chapter 4 of the Qur’an. I believe we as Muslims are uniquely positioned to understand prejudice. We face it all the time, sometimes even in close quarters. Covid-19 caused racial prejudice to rear its ugly head once again. We saw how the Chinese/Asian community were brutalized for their ethnicity. We witnessed some of the most disturbing anti-Black incidents take place around the world, and it baffled us how this could happen in this so-called "modern, post-Civil Rights movement world."
Usually, when friends and relatives pass ignorant, racist comments, I don't react. But this time, I've used my voice to point out the baselessness in their conclusions. Honestly, it isn't much in the way of fighting prejudice because of how deep-rooted it can be, but I try.
Faith and Family
I can't remember the last time I'd had such a wonderful and fulfilling Ramadan. Faith cements family and relationships, and vice versa. The whole Ramadan routine during Covid-19 brought my tiny family closer than ever together, in Islam and beyond. My five-year-old son learnt the Arabic alphabet, memorized some "kiddie Surahs" and started praying. I was able to sow the first seeds of Taqwa (god consciousness) in him, however awkward it might have seemed at times. How do you answer questions like "Is Allah watching me poop?". And "Why is He invincible?" -- I know, I was surprised he even knew that word and I struggled to answer the question. Turns out he meant "invisible," but that didn't make it any easier.
Faith and Lifestyle
"Pandemic Ramadan," as I secretly call it, also made a significant impact on my lifestyle. I've rediscovered the comfort in the Salah routine. I've learnt more about Prophetic medicine for better immunity. I've tried to incorporate simplicity and leanness in the way I live — thinking a thousand times before making that online purchase; keeping grocery runs virus-free, and hence, short; cleaning out cluttered closets and storage spaces etc. I really saw how a little extra time can go a long way towards polishing one's faith.
Confinement or 'Retreat?'
Being isolated at home, I think I've gotten a glimpse of the kind of peace and tranquillity the Prophet felt during his meditative retreats in the Hira cave. I wouldn't say I've gotten the complete experience, what with the kid crawling up and down my back, the spouse constantly mobbing my bubble, and having to cook and clean extra. Nevertheless, detaching from the general outside world has been therapeutic. No more places to go, no more people to please, no more appointments to keep. It has expanded my mind; I have been able to rekindle my faith, my hobbies, and in general, my happiness. I've even found some handy nooks in my apartment where I can self-isolate from the annoying family!
Cherishing Everyday Freedoms
Having to wear masks wherever we go curtailed our freedom to breathe. Having to maintain physical distancing strained our freedom to move. Having to isolate from family and friends took away our freedom to socialize. Our freedom to work, study and play have been seriously affected by the pandemic. Many such freedoms, Muslims have learnt to recognize, are favours from God to mankind as encapsulated in the iconic Qur’anic verse “And, which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?” — repeated 31 times in Chapter 16.
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