In memory of my Mum who taught me to forever seek guidance and learnings from faith
It’s finally Ramadan. For my non-Muslim folks reading, Ramadan is a month where Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. Completely refraining from food, drink (including water), smoking, anger, insults, bad intentions, bad habits. It’s a spiritually cleansing time that’s meant to test and remind us how fortunate and blessed we are.
In the spirit of Ramadan, I’m going to share five beautifully inspiring Hadiths that I believe will make anyone a more fulfilled human being and more successful professional.
For me, Ramadan has historically been the month I’ve both lost and learned the most. My late mother passed during Ramadan and whilst the month’s started tumultuously, it’s reminded me just how much she taught me that continues to help shape who I am today.
I love my faith. I’m an oddly imperfect person who won’t judge you for your faith or your beliefs or impose mine unto you but I know where I stand. My soul is soaked in my faith. I feel connected to it in a way my words can’t quite describe. And with that in mind, here are 5 hadiths that I hope will elevate your mind and speak to your soul.
1. On those we should be inspired by:
“The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Do not wish to be like anyone except in two cases. (The first is) A person, whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it righteously; (the second is) the one whom Allah has given wisdom and he acts according to it and teaches it to others.”
Place a premium on those who spend their wealth well and those who share knowledge and live by it. Ensure these are the people in your immediate circle. This one alone will change your life.
2. On Doing business:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “May Allah’s mercy be on him who is lenient in his buying, selling, and in demanding back his money.”
Be generous with those who you believe truly need help. Be kinder when you’re doing business with people. This goes against the traditional business grain and ones ego but doing so sets your soul and mind at ease. Business done right is always better business.
3. Exchanging of Gifts:
“The Prophet (ﷺ) used to accept gifts and used to give something in return.”
This may seem so simple on the surface but it’s a beautiful habit to cultivate. One I’ve personally struggled with because giving is so much easier than receiving. Be open in accepting gifts from others and be ready to give something in return. The simple yet genuine exchange of gifts is something so memorable for those involved.
4. Making peace between People:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “He who makes peace between the people by inventing good information or saying good things, is not a liar.”
I’d take this one to heart. So often we see people seeking to tear down the peace between people. This Hadith encourages us to make peace between people even if it means inventing good things to bring them together. Be someone who connects and repairs the broken bonds between those around you. It will elevate your sense of self and will always fare you well across everything you do in life.
5. Show Mercy and Forgiveness:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Show mercy and you will be shown mercy. Forgive and Allah will forgive you. Woe to the vessels that catch words (i.e. the ears). Woe to those who persist and consciously continue in what they are doing.”
This last one may be the hardest one to achieve but will bring you a peace few will experience. Be merciful and forgiving of people. No matter what’s happened. Many will tell you forgiving others is a weakness. I’ve found that those who can’t forgive others or show people mercy are the weakest people I’ve met. Rise above your ego and do what few can.
Ramadan Kareem to everyone. Here’s to a blessed month full of challenges, tests, conflicts and growth. I wouldn’t have it any other way.