MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – The holy month of Ramadan has come to an end, marking a time of reflection and spiritual growth for Muslims worldwide. As the faithful celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Haedar Nashir, President of Muhammadiyah has issued a powerful message urging Muslims to embrace the values of piety and righteousness that they have cultivated during the month.
In the Eid al-Fitr reflection on Tuesday (April 9), Haedar emphasized that true piety (taqwa) goes beyond mere rituals and observances. It encompasses a deep-rooted commitment to Allah, manifested in actions that promote goodness and compassion towards all of creation.
“Taqwa is not just about our relationship with God,” Haedar explained. “It is also about our relationship with humanity in all its aspects.”
Haedar highlighted the multifaceted nature of piety, encompassing acts of charity, generosity, and forgiveness. He drew inspiration from Surah Ali Imran verse 134, which extols the virtues of those who give in both times of prosperity and hardship.
“Taqwa is the pinnacle of goodness in a Muslim’s life,” Haedar asserted. “It is the culmination of our faith, our commitment to Islam, and our ascension to the highest level of righteousness.”
Haedar underscored the transformative power of Ramadan, emphasizing its role in shaping individuals into “insan al kamil” – complete and exemplary human beings. He described fasting as a means of strengthening our connection with God, fostering compassion for others, and respecting the entire universe.
“The culmination of Ramadan is Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of our spiritual cleansing and renewal,” Haedar explained. “It is a reminder to carry the lessons of Ramadan into our daily lives, embodying the values of piety in all our actions.”
With over two billion Muslims worldwide, Haedar envisions a world transformed by the collective piety of the faithful. He believes that the successul people performing worships during Ramadan 1445 Hijri have the potential to usher in a new era of peace, prosperity, and justice.
“If we, as Muslims, can emerge from Ramadan as the best versions of ourselves,” Haedar declared, “we can make a profound impact on the world, creating a society that is truly just and equitable for all.”
Haedar outlined the characteristics of a true Ramadan graduate, encompassing spiritual growth, intellectual development, and a commitment to social justice. He emphasized the role of Islam in promoting compassion, tolerance, and progress.
“Ramadan is not just about changing our eating habits,” Haedar asserted. “It is about transforming ourselves into agents of positive change, contributing to the building of a thriving and virtuous civilization.”
Beyond spiritual and social transformation, Haedar also expressed his hope that Ramadan will serve as a catalyst for economic empowerment and social progress among Muslims. He envisions a future where Muslims are no longer marginalized but stand as beacons of hope and inspiration.
“May Ramadan be a catalyst for the transformation of the Muslim community into the ‘best of nations’ (khair al ummah),” Haedar prayed. “May we harness the power of Islam to elevate our lives and build a society that reflects its noble ideals.”
Haedar concluded his message by emphasizing the importance of translating religious rituals into tangible social progress. He urged Muslims to seize the opportunity presented by Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr to become the changemakers the world desperately needs.
“Let us use this sacred time as a springboard for collective action,” Haedar implored. “Together, we can build a world that embodies the true spirit of Islam – a world of peace, justice, and prosperity for all.”
Haedar’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of Ramadan and the enduring responsibility of Muslims to strive for a better world. As the faithful celebrate Eid al-Fitr, they carry with them the lessons of piety, compassion, and social justice, ready to make a lasting impact on their communities and the world at large.
