The 21st Day of the Holy Month of Ramadan: A Day of Reflection, Martyrdom, and Wisdom
Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
As we reach the 21st day of the blessed month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the profound spiritual significance of this time. Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and seeking closeness to Allah (SWT). It is a time to purify our souls, seek forgiveness, and deepen our understanding of our faith. On this day, we also commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS), the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a figure of immense wisdom, justice, and devotion to Allah.
The Significance of the 21st Day of Ramadan**
The 21st day of Ramadan holds a special place in Islamic history. It is the day when Imam Ali (AS) was martyred in the year 40 AH (661 CE) while leading the morning prayers in the Great Mosque of Kufa. He was struck by a poisoned sword by Abd al-Rahman ibn Muljam, a Kharijite, and succumbed to his injuries two days later. His martyrdom is a profound reminder of the sacrifices made by the Ahlul Bayt (the family of the Prophet) for the sake of Islam and justice.
Imam Ali (AS) was known for his unparalleled wisdom, courage, and devotion to Allah. His sermons, letters, and sayings, compiled in works like *Nahj al-Balagha* (The Peak of Eloquence), continue to guide Muslims in matters of faith, governance, and personal conduct. On this day, we reflect on his life, teachings, and the lessons we can draw from his example.
**Quranic Verses for Reflection**
The Quran provides us with guidance and wisdom that resonate deeply with the life and teachings of Imam Ali (AS). On this day, let us reflect on the following verses:
1. **Surah Al-Imran (3:134):**
*”Those who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people – and Allah loves the doers of good.”*
– This verse reminds us of the importance of generosity, patience, and forgiveness, qualities that Imam Ali (AS) exemplified throughout his life.
2. **Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13):**
*”O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.”*
– Imam Ali (AS) was a champion of justice and equality, treating all people with fairness and respect, regardless of their background.
3. **Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177):**
*”Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves…”*
– This verse emphasizes the importance of faith and good deeds, values that Imam Ali (AS) upheld in every aspect of his life.
**Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) About Imam Ali (AS)**
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) held Imam Ali (AS) in the highest regard and often spoke of his virtues. Some of these sayings include:
1. *”I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.”*
– This hadith highlights Imam Ali’s (AS) deep understanding of Islamic teachings and his role as a source of guidance for the Ummah.
2. *”Ali is to me as Harun (Aaron) was to Musa (Moses), except there will be no prophet after me.”*
– This comparison underscores the close relationship between the Prophet (PBUH) and Imam Ali (AS), as well as Ali’s role as a trusted companion and leader.
3. *”Whoever loves Ali loves me, and whoever hates Ali hates me.”*
– This saying emphasizes the spiritual connection between the Prophet (PBUH) and Imam Ali (AS) and the importance of loving and respecting the Ahlul Bayt.
Sermons and Sayings of Imam Ali (AS)**
Imam Ali (AS) left behind a treasure trove of wisdom through his sermons and sayings. On this day, let us reflect on some of his profound teachings:
1. On Knowledge and Wisdom:
*”The learned are the living ones in the midst of the dead. Knowledge is a shield against the blows of time. With it, man rises to the heights of virtue and excellence.”*
– This reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge and using it to better ourselves and our communities.
2. On Justice:
*”By Allah, if I were given the seven heavens with all they contain in order to disobey Allah by taking a grain of barley from the mouth of an ant, I would not do it.”*
– Imam Ali’s (AS) unwavering commitment to justice serves as a timeless example for all of us.
3. On Humility:
The most complete gift of God is a life based on knowledge. The countless fools have made the learned very scarce. The learned man understands the ignorant for he was once ignorant himself. The ignorant does not understand the learned for he has never been learned.”*
– This saying encourages us to remain humble and compassionate, recognizing that knowledge is a gift from Allah.
4. On Patience and Trust in Allah:
*”Patience is of two kinds: patience over what pains you, and patience against what you covet.”*
– Imam Ali (AS) teaches us that true patience involves enduring hardships and resisting temptations, always trusting in Allah’s plan.
Prayer for Understanding the Wisdom of Imam Ali (AS)**
On this day, let us pray to Allah to grant us the ability to understand and embody the wisdom of Imam Ali (AS):
*”O Allah, we ask You to bless us with the wisdom and understanding of Imam Ali (AS). Grant us the strength to uphold justice, the humility to seek knowledge, and the patience to endure hardships with faith. May we follow in his footsteps and strive to live a life of righteousness, compassion, and devotion to You. O Allah, bless Imam Ali (AS) and grant him the highest station in Paradise. Ameen.”*
The 21st day of Ramadan is a day of deep reflection, mourning, and spiritual renewal. As we remember the martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS), let us strive to embody his teachings and values in our lives. May Allah grant us the wisdom to understand his legacy and the strength to follow his example. Let us use this blessed month to draw closer to Allah and seek His mercy and forgiveness.
*”Indeed, Allah is with those who are patient.”* (Quran 2:153)
*”Peace be upon Ali, the righteous servant of Allah, the brother of His Messenger, and the leader of the believers.”*