Preparing to Bid Farewell to Ramadan

Ramadan is once again preparing to bid us farewell. By tonight, Muslims across Nigeria will have completed twenty-five days of fasting. Only Allah (SWT) knows who among us will be fortunate enough to witness this blessed month next year. As we reflect on the closing moments of this year’s Ramadan on this 25th day, many are already feeling the emptiness that will follow as the Tafsir sessions, nighttime Tahajjud prayers, and various preaching programs on television, such as the Sahur Live broadcast on NTAi, will soon come to an end.

The conclusion of the Ramadan fast should not signify the end of the charitable deeds and worship that we have embraced over the past weeks. Let us commit to carry forward the good actions we cultivated during Ramadan, continuing to avoid the sinful behaviors we refrained from throughout this period. Eidul-Fitr, approaching fast, is not a time to revert to old habits of jealousy, deceit, backbiting, lying, and cheating. Returning to such behaviors only marks us as hypocrites.

Our discussion as Ramadan draws to a close will also address Zakatul-Fitr and the various responsibilities that come with the Ramadan fast's conclusion. Although Zakatul-Fitr—like the obligatory daily prayers—is a common subject, reminders are always beneficial to refresh our memories and ensure we fulfill this duty accurately. Anas bin Malik (RA) reports that the Prophet (SAW) stated, 'The Ramadan fast of Allah's believing servants remains suspended between the heavens and the earth until Zakatul-Fitr is paid. Once it is given, Allah (SWT) provides it with wings to ascend to the seventh heaven, where it will stay until its owner claims it.'

Zakatul-Fitr is an essential Sunnah, obligatory for every Muslim, regardless of age, gender, or status. It is the responsibility of the person in charge of a household to provide Zakatul-Fitr for his wives, children, and others in his care. This form of charity should be given in the staple food common in one's community—rice, maize, millet, wheat, or similar cereals in northern Nigeria. Beans or groundnuts may also suffice if they are staples in the region.

The measure for Zakatul-Fitr is four measures of food (in grains or cereals) as per the Prophet’s Sa’a (cubic measure). A man’s cupped palms filled with grains or cereals constitute one complete measure of the prophetic Sa’a when traditional measures are not available. According to the Sunnah, it is preferable to pay Zakatul-Fitr after dawn on the day of Eidul-Fitr, before attending the Eid prayers. Imam Malik (RA) noted that scholars used to distribute Zakatul-Fitr after dawn on Eid day before proceeding to the prayer grounds.

However, it is permissible to pay Zakatul-Fitr a day or two ahead of Eidul- Fitr. Historical accounts indicate that Abdullahi bin Umar (RA) would pay it two or three days prior to Eidul-Fitr. If a Muslim cannot provide Zakatul-Fitr before leaving for Eid prayers due to financial constraints, it should be paid as soon as the means become available. Zakatul-Fitr cannot be bypassed or substituted; it is a mandatory obligation for all Muslims.

In addition to providing Zakatul-Fitr, it is essential for every Muslim to break their fast on the morning of Eid. The sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, indicates the end of Ramadan. Therefore, it is expected for all who fasted during Ramadan to have a meal upon waking on Eid day, either before leaving home or the mosque (for those in I’tikaf), for the Eid prayer. Abstaining from food or drink after daybreak on Eid does not enhance piety; instead, it contradicts Islamic law, as Muslims must break their fast once the Shawwal crescent is visible.

Declining to eat before Eid prayer extends Ramadan beyond its appointed time and is against Allah’s will. Reports confirming the visibility of the Shawwal crescent through reliable media sources signal the conclusion of Ramadan. Nevertheless, our feasting and celebrations during Eid should remain modest and not extravagant, ensuring we express gratitude to Allah.

Considering the nation's ongoing economic challenges, it is important for families to be understanding if what their husbands can provide falls short of past expectations regarding festive outfits or meals. Our wives and daughters should acknowledge the current economic realities. We should not allow these hardships to prevent us from cherishing the joyful moments of the Eid celebration.

Eid should be a time to celebrate Allah’s blessings. Let us express our gratitude even if our Eid breakfast consists merely of pap without bean cakes or groundnut cakes. May Allah accept our Ramadan fasts, forgive our transgressions, shower us with mercy, guide our leaders, and assist us in overcoming the difficulties we face as a developing democracy. Amin.

Wishing everyone a blessed Ramadan and a joyful Eidul-Fitr in advance!