The situation is seemingly so bad that there have been voices in the Muslim community that have suggested that the fast be abandoned this year. While this is- in my view- an extreme overreaction- the situation, in particular the cultural or traditional aspects of the month that will have to be modified or abandoned out of necessity this year, does warrant us to take a look at what our priorities should be.
Fasting: A means to connect to the Almighty
یٰۤاَیُّہَا الَّذِیۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا کُتِبَ عَلَیۡکُمُ الصِّیَامُ کَمَا کُتِبَ عَلَی الَّذِیۡنَ مِنۡ قَبۡلِکُمۡ لَعَلَّکُمۡ تَتَّقُوۡنَ
"O people of Secure commitment! Fasting is ordained on you, as it was on those before you, so that perhaps you will attain Taqwaa" ( Qur'an 2:185)
The above Quranic sentence is the core explanation of what fasting in Ramadan is about. It is about Taqwaa, that sense of reverence, awe of God. The cultural elements, such as the various foods served at dinner and mornings before dawn, presents and the like, all are certainly beneficial in their adding to the experience, however the goal is the attainment of Taqwaa.
Fasting is often called an invisible form of worship because it is one of the few actions which cannot be known precisely by anyone except the person and Allah. A person could fast, inside and outside of the month, without it being public knowledge, and conversely, break or disregard the fast in the privacy of his home.
If the primary goal is remembered, Ramadan won't be a burden this year.
The removal of distractions
The traditional observations, the details of which vary from place to place, will obviously not take place in their usual forms. Yet, there are things which will still be available which would distract us from the goals of the month. There are certain dramas, television shows/movies etc, which are released in the Muslim world during Ramadan, most of which have little or no spiritual content.
The fact that the majority of us have to work from our homes and be unable to attend dinners and communal activities can-in fact- force us to take a step back, to reexamine our priorities.
Taqwaa is developed mainly through efforts. Contemplation, prayer, reflection, study. Too many of us go through the month with all the financial, family and communal obligations- so much so that it drains us spiritually. THIS month will be different, God-willing. This month will be the time for Taqwaa to truly flourish.
There is a Hadeeth Qudsi (Sacred tradition) which summarizes this as God saying "The reward of fasting is ME".
Actions we can do
I would suggest using Ramadan as an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones via the various communication platforms now available. Take a group of numbers each day, call or message them. Warmth, care and love are all positive emotions which can be found lacking when being unable to meet for dinners or for evening prayers.
There is a fear of social isolation because of the virus. Quarantines, social distancing guidelines, even being unable to shake hands (let alone hug) are truly heartbreaking, in particular for those who are elderly. We should be cognizant of this, and reach out as much as possible.
Reach out to those you have lost touch with. Let them know you care. You don't have to say those words, just reaching out will be sufficient.
Religious actions we can do
Taraweeh prayers can still be offered, just offer them in your home. You can still read the Qur'an. Study it in your home. If you want to hear the entire Qur'an, recited by a talented Hafiz or Qari, there are countless YOUTUBE videos and Apps which are available. Indeed, on my television, I have at least three channels saved dedicated to the Qur'an (its Tarteel and Tafseer). I would also suggest Tahajjud prayers, observed late in the evenings. (#1)
Maintain a positive attitude. Have gratitude to Allah. Be thankful to be able to experience the month.
May Allah accept our prayer, fasting, and any good actions we are able to do. May He guide us, and protect us from those things which are detrimental to our health, in particular our spiritual health.
Endnote
[1] Salaat At Tahajjud, also known as Qiyam ul Layl ("Standing in the evening") was a prayer that was offered in the late hours of the night that was observed by Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم
It is observed in precisely the same manner as Salaat At Taraweeh, leading some to conclude that it in fact the same prayer, that Taraweeh is simply another name given for Tahajjud to be observed in communal fashion during the fasting month.
It is universally acknowledged that Tahajjud can be offered year round. Whatever one's views, both opinions recognize the value of praying at night.
