Ramadan is a time of self-reflection and meditation. Intense rounds of praying taraweeh, and spending time at home with our thoughts and families. Fasting makes us thankful for what we have, and the physical discipline goes along with a spiritual discipline. Applied thoughtfully, the reward can be deep emotionally and spiritually, just as breaking fast with our loved ones is joyous.
But where does the spiritual reflection take us? What do we gain spiritually and mentally beyond a feeling of peace? What do we reflect on? It varies for individuals and communities. For Islam in Spanish, we reflect on our often forgotten Islamic roots, and think how we can further cultivate our community. Cultivation is both spiritual, of the self and relationships, and materially, of the wider community's economic sustainability. The word ‘cultivate’ itself comes from ‘culture’ and we view our culture as in need of cultivation, a matter of spiritual responsibility. Therefore, we are dedicating our Ramadan fundraising to our new state-of-the-art Islamic Center, which will provide all the amenities of a Masjid, along with a Museum dedicated towards Latino Muslims contribution to the world. For instance, did you know that it was Arab traders who brought lemons and advanced agricultural techniques to Southern Europe? The lemon groves brought by Muslims during their time in Sicily and Spain (Al Andalus) were for a time, some of the most profitable farmland in the world.
These contributions of cultures, trade and faith have shaped the world, and reflecting that rich history is our way of uplifting and cultivating our community. Another way for Muslims is in giving Zakat, and this is why Allah encourages giving during Ramadan by multiplying the blessings during this time. A great amount of social action and giving in a short time can have a powerful impact in creating positive change.
We will be keeping you in our prayers, and we would be grateful if you kept us in yours. To learn more about us, or to support the IslamInSpanish Centro Islamico in Houston: visit: islaminspanish.org/ramadan2022
