In the recent flood of quotes and stories about Women’s Day, I was left as always (with other Days, and every year), lar…

In the recent flood of quotes and stories about Women’s Day, I was left as always (with other Days, and every year), largely disappointed by the amount of apologetic, compensative, ignorant, herd-like with a terrible shepherd, or whatever type of quotes and stories – especially from a crowd you’d expect more.

It’s natural that we all lose our senses somewhat when there’s excitement. But it’s disappointing no less.

However someone mentioned an amazing thing to me once years ago, which to me personifies Prophetic Character.

‘We are all trying.’

So I’ll try.

In parts of the world, people are very aware of the movement of the Islamic lunar month and year, and may depend on it. The middle of the month is most obvious as you’ll have a full moon. This illustrates a long standing tradition of being environmentally aware, beyond just the earth.

During the three days of the middle of the month, 13th to 15th, also know as White Days, Muslims are encouraged to follow what the Best Man (Muhammad) did on such days. Fast.

The effect of what he did is immense. At least on a monthly basis, people around the world, until today, alter their lifestyle, interrupt their routine, battle their lower desires for that meal. That’s freedom isn’t it. He also pointed out how great this simple act is. Freedom with rewards.

Anyhow. How did we know of this? A woman asked, and she was answered, and she whose word was trusted, told others.

Maymunah bint Sa`d (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Messenger of Allah ﷺ about supererogatory fasting. He said: “Three days in every month for the one who is able to fast them, for every day wipes out ten bad deeds and cleanses (you) from sins as water cleanses clothing.” (Narrated by al-Tabarani).

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ encouraged his Companions to fast three days in every month and to fast these days specifically.

A young man I know merely started by making the intention to fast, without actually doing it. And only months later did it for a day before eventually being able to fast on three random days per month, and then have them all done on the three specific days.

‘We are all trying.’

Pic: No that is not a full moon. It’s brown flour bread cooked in a round fire oven, that most locals eat for breakfast, and sahur. Keeps you full long time. Nice and sufficiently soft when it’s fresh. When it’s not, it’s hard enough to kill a goat if you aim well.

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