MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — Shawwal is not merely a time for celebration, but also a crucial period for self-reflection and spiritual transformation, according to Muhammad Sayuti, Secretary of Muhammadiyah. After a month of dedicated worship during Ramadan, it is essential to assess one’s progress and embark on a journey of deeper spiritual growth.
“What is the impact of fasting? We should constantly pose evaluative questions, what is new and changed after going through Ramadan,” Sayuti emphasized during a gathering at the Muhammadiyah Office of Yogyakarta on Wednesday (18/04).
The momentum of heightened worship should not diminish as the month of Shawwal unfolds. The regular recitation of the Quran practiced diligently during Ramadan should continue. Tahajjud prayers, sunnah fasting, and other pious practices must also be maintained and enhanced. Shawwal is not the end of the spiritual journey, but rather the beginning of a steadfast commitment to drawing closer to Allah.
Shawwal, the month marked by the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, should not be solely perceived as a period to revel in the victory of overcoming hunger and thirst throughout Ramadan. According to Sayuti, Shawwal should be regarded as a pivotal moment for every Muslim to embark on a path of profound spiritual transformation.
Sustaining the spirit of worship during Shawwal will not only strengthen and deepen the spiritual connection but also extend the blessings of Ramadan into daily life. Therefore, Shawwal is not the culmination of the journey but rather the commencement of a more unwavering commitment to living a life guided by faith.
Beyond the realm of worship, Sayuti stressed the importance of utilizing Shawwal as a catalyst for adopting more positive habits, such as regular exercise. He recounted his personal success in shedding nine kilograms, a testament to his dedication to health and physical well-being as an integral aspect of religious observance.
“There should be something new that we do in this month of Shawwal. Of course, it should be positive, for instance, starting to exercise regularly. This is extremely important. Alhamdulillah, I managed to lose weight, without using any medication,” Sayuti shared.
Sayuti then cited Ar-Ra’d verse 11, which emphasizes that Allah will not transform a people unless they change the condition within themselves. He underscored the significance of internal transformation as a prerequisite for broader external change.
