Mindful Fasting is a Learning Plan designed to deepen our understanding of Ramadan’s core purpose—attaining Taqwa (God-consciousness). Ramadan is more than abstaining from food and drink—it is a transformative journey toward mindfulness of Allah (Taqwa). This Lesson Plan aims to help you cultivate a heart that is fully present, aware, and connected with the deeper purpose of fasting. We explore the essence of Taqwa and how it shapes every aspect of our lives—from our intentions and actions to our relationships and personal growth. Through engaging reflections, practical exercises, and profound insights from the Quran and Sunnah, we hope this Learning Plan helps strengthen your Taqwa and live more mindfully.
Topics Covered:
<ul>
<li>Cultivating a Mindful Heart</li>
<li>Mindful Communication</li>
<li>Taqwa and Moral Clarity</li>
<li>Mindful Enjoyment.</li>
<li>Mindful Companionship</li>
<li>And More!</li>
</ul>
Join us on this journey and strive to make this Ramadan your most mindful, transformative, and spiritually rewarding one yet!
We'd love to hear your feedback: <a href="mailto:learningplans@quran.com">learningplans@quran.com</a>

Why Mindful Fasting?
Being mindful is something that most people struggle with, especially in the hustle and bustle of modern daily life. Having focus and conscientiously adhering to what Allah demands of us can be a struggle, especially when the demands of life weigh heavily on our shoulders.
<h3>“Ramadan comes as a soul-strengthening month of revival so that we regain a higher state of awareness of Allah.”</h3>
By being mindful, we are not only talking about our thoughts, but also the entirety of ourselves, our conscience, actions and feelings. Mindful Fasting thus relates to the state of ‘Taqwa’ which is to have the pleasure and fear of our Creator at the forefront of our actions, thoughts and decisions, and Ramadan is here to help us achieve this state. When a person is mindful of Allah SWT (Glorified and Exalted is He), his entire existence revolves around pleasing Him, and fearing His displeasure. If one were to reach this level of mindfulness, their piety and righteousness will not only be felt at the personal level, but also by those around them.
Allah reminds us that those who are mindful of Him, for them is good news in this life and the next life, and they have nothing to fear.
<blockquote>
“There will certainly be no fear for the close servants of Allah, nor will they grieve.˹They are˺ those who are faithful and are mindful ˹of Him. For them is good news in this worldly life and the Hereafter. There is no change in the promise of Allah. That is ˹truly˺ the ultimate triumph.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/10:62-64">10:62-64</a>)
</blockquote>
A scholar once said: &quot;The righteous and pious believer (i.e. the one who has Taqwa) is blessed wherever he may be, is a source of blessings for his family, and a source of blessings for his companions. Nothing is heard from him except truthful speech, and nothing is received from him except goodness. He is not foul-mouthed, abusive, obscene, or indecent. Rather, he is generous in character.
Although there may be many different ideas and genres surrounding the word 'mindfulness’, in this Learning Plan, the word &quot;mindfulness&quot; should be understood as a synonym to  Taqwa, which is the main objective of Ramadan.
About this Learning Plan
The purpose of this Learning Plan is to demonstrate the integral and integrated role that Taqwa plays in all of our human affairs. From the way we conduct ourselves in private to public, Taqwa ensures that we act with utmost integrity before our Creator.
Each lesson looks at a different dimension of Taqwa. To gain the maximum benefit from each lesson, it is recommended that we read the associated verse, attempt to memorise it if possible, and reflect upon its meaning and application. Strive to keep each verse as a rule of life and a reminder of how the Quran encourages us to be mindful. You are also encouraged to write down your own reflections on these verses, and you can post this on to <a href="https://quranreflect.com/">QuranReflect</a>

Introduction

It would not be an exaggeration to say that many Muslims pass through Ramadan disconnected from its ultimate purpose, almost like passengers on a bus who are being driven to an unknown destination.
In order to extract the best out of Ramadan, it is crucial that we connect with its ultimate purpose—which is achieving taqwa—by reminding ourselves of this God-given purpose in each and every motion and moment of Ramadan. In this way, not a moment passes in this sacred month devoid of this aim. Follow through with this mindset and, inshaAllah, you will find yourself graduating from Ramadan, better transformed and ready for a lifetime of piety and servitude to Allah.
The purpose of fasting has been mentioned unequivocally in the following verse:
<blockquote>
”O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:183">2:183</a>)
</blockquote>
Reading this verse reassures us that the obligation to fast was not revealed without informing us of the purpose of fasting. It is only an act of mercy from Allah  that He did not leave it to us—humans—to figure out the best method to train our minds and bodies to become more mindful of Him. He prescribes the precise means to achieve that end of heightened awareness of Allah.  Both the rationale of Ramadan and the means to attaining Taqwa have been revealed in this single verse by Allah SWT as a gesture of His mercy.
<h3>“Since the objective of Ramadan is to attain Taqwa, we must have this at the forefront of our minds at all times during Ramadan.”</h3>
So why do we fast?
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) advised:
<h3>‘O young men, whoever among you can afford to get married, then let him do so, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity. And whoever is not able to do that, then let him fast, for that will be a shield for him.’” (Bukhari, 5066; Muslim, 1400)</h3>
Fasting is about restraint, and when we practise restraint during our fast, we are being programmed to act diligently and God-consciously. We are strengthening our armour against our destructive egos, and the conniving shaytan who seeks to misguide us. Ultimately, by having better self-control, we are shielding ourselves from punishment in the hereafter. Being conscious of our Creator at all times helps modify our behaviour to align with the values and principles of our religion.
Furthermore, Ramadan, when observed properly, cultivates in us a deep veneration and regard for Allah and His revelation. This in turn makes us more receptive and perceptive of His guidance. Allah tells us that those who are truly guided by the Quran are those who possess Taqwa.
<blockquote>
“​​This is the Scripture in which there is no doubt, containing guidance for those who are mindful of God,” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:2">2:2</a>)
</blockquote>
Since being mindful of Allah is a pre-requisite to benefiting from guidance, and since the degree of guidance is commensurate with the level of taqwa one has*,* Ramadan has been ordained so that we can be further guided by revelation, through the strengthening of our level of Taqwa. Allah says:
<blockquote>
”Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:185">2:185</a>)
</blockquote>
Why is Taqwa fundamentally important for our survival?
<h3>“Taqwa is a lifelong pursuit. We are to stick to it, like the way a survivor holds onto a rock at the edge of a cliff.  We are told to live upon Islam (submission) and to die upon Islam.”</h3>
So how does one ensure that they live a life of submission, and ensure they die upon faith too? The answer is given in the following verse:
<blockquote>
“You who believe, be mindful of God, as is His due, and make sure you devote yourselves to Him, to your dying moment.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:102">3:102</a>)
</blockquote>
In explaining the verse, It is reported that Ibn Abbas said:
قال ابن عباس في الآية هو أن يطاع فلا يعصى؛ ويشكر فلا يكفر ويذكر فلا ينسى
<h3>“[Being mindful of God means] that He is obeyed and not disobeyed; to be grateful to Him and not ungrateful, and that He be remembered and not forgotten.” (Ibn Kathir, verse <a href="https://quran.com/3:102">3:102</a>)</h3>
This verse also emphasises that Taqwa is the protective shield that preserves our faith, ensuring we remain steadfast in submission to our Creator until our final moments.
As we have been commanded to live a life of Taqwa, it is inevitable that we will falter at times, and there will be episodes in our lives where we drop our guards, and end up in moments of disobedience and ingratitude. This is the very reason why Ramadan has been given to us as a blessing: in order to preserve this essential requirement for our salvation in the hereafter—for only those who have taqwa will succeed.
Taqwa is the only insurance policy that will be effective in affording us divine protection in the hereafter, and Allah tells us that fasting leads to a strengthening of this protection.
<h3></h3>
<blockquote>
'O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:183">2:183</a>)
</blockquote>
and in another verse, Allah tells us that Taqwa leads to success,
<h3></h3>
<blockquote>
”and be mindful of Allah, so you may be successful.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:200">3:200</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
<h3>“The formula is as follows:</h3>
الصوم --&gt; التقوى --&gt; الفلاح
Fasting--&gt; Taqwa --&gt; Success.”
If we bear the above formula in mind whilst fasting, we become more connected with our fasts, knowing that Allah wants our success and has given us the  means of growing closer to Him through the divine gift of fasting. Yes, we all want coffee in the morning, and a full night of rest. However, sacrificing these matters in Ramadan, means we are regaining self-control. Attaining taqwa means learning and applying self-restraint and thereby controlling our impulses, from our emotions to our behaviour. It is often the lack of Taqwa that leads to sinning, which results in diminished prospects of reward and acceptance in the hereafter.
A person who is mindful of Allah in his conduct will receive ultimate success on the Day of Judgment. This is beautifully depicted in this verse, showcasing the honour bestowed upon those who were conscious of Allah:
<blockquote>
&quot;Watch for˺ the Day We will gather the righteous before the Most Compassionate as an honoured delegation.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/19:85">19:85</a>)
</blockquote>
May Allah make us among the righteous who will be raised as an honoured delegation before the Most Compassionate. Ameen
Interact with this reflection on Quranreflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22235">here</a>
Mindfulness tip: Ask Allah for mindfulness with this prophetic Dua:
&quot;‏اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالْعَفَافَ وَالْغِنَى .&quot;
Allahumma inni as’aluka alhudā, wattuqā wal `afāf wal ghinā
&quot;O Allah, I ask you for the right guidance, protection against evils, chastity and freedom from want.&quot; (<a href="https://sunnah.com/muslim:2721a">Sahih Muslim 2721a</a>
The next lesson will discuss why being mindful matters and what happens when we attain Taqwa.

The Focus of Ramadan

<blockquote>
“This is the Scripture in which there is no doubt, containing guidance for those who are mindful of God,” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:2">2:2</a>)
</blockquote>
The Quran is guidance. Guidance in its reality, nature, essence, and meaning. But for whom? For whom is this book a guidance, a light, and a clear evidence? The answer is clear: It is for those mindful of God.
Piety (Taqwa) in the heart qualifies us to benefit from this book. It is what opens the locks of the heart for Allah’s guidance to enter and play its role there. It prepares this heart to grasp, receive, and respond. Anyone who seeks guidance in the Quran must come to it with a pure heart, a sincere heart, and then come to it with a heart that fears, hopes, and guards against evil, and then the Quran will reveal its secrets and light uplifting and enriching the heart, that has come to it with piety, fear, sensitivity, and readiness to receive.
What happens when we attain Taqwa?
When a believer has Taqwa, he now has what it takes to absorb guidance, in a meaningful way. It is like a person who receives an important message from the king, whilst stranded in the dark on an island. Those who have taqwa have a lantern with them to read, appreciate and follow the instructions in this letter and then, with that lantern and the guided instructions, they are able to tread the path to safety.
There are many paths, diversions and obstacles in the journey of life, with some paths being more perilous than others.
<h3>“It is reported that Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) asked Ibn Ka'b about piety, and he said to him: Have you walked a path full of thorns*?* He said yes. He said: What did you do? He said: I rolled up my garment and persevered. So Ubayy said to him, &quot;That is piety.&quot; Therefore, piety is that you strive against yourself to avoid falling into sins.</h3>
Thus, being mindful is being sensitive in our conscience, transparent in our feelings, having continuous fear, constant caution, and a desire to avoid the thorns of the road—the road of life where the thorns of desires, lusts, ambitions, fears, false hopes, and other thorns are intertwined.
 This is why Ramadan has been ordained: to extract the best possible version of us as servants by making our hearts more receptive to the guidance of the Quran. May Allah enable us to attain Taqwa in this month. Ameen
Interact with this reflection on Quranreflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22570">here</a>
Mindfulness tip: Make the intention this Ramadan to strive to attain a higher degree of Taqwa. Imagine yourself walking that thorny path of life filled with poisonous plants of disobedience, prickly traps of desires, and mines of destruction. Pause yourself before taking every step and analyse if that step is good for you or destructive for you.
The next lesson discusses honouring the rites of Ramadan, and how honouring sacred matters is an indication of Taqwa.

Why does Taqwa matter?

<blockquote>
“That is so. And whoever honours the symbols of Allah, it is certainly out of the piety of the heart.”  (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/22:32">22:32</a>)
</blockquote>
One way in which we can measure our levels of mindfulness, is to consider the way we honour sacred occasions and the manner in which we embrace these. In Islam, there are specific places and times which are considered sacred such as Hajj and the sacred sanctuary of the Ka’bah. Allah wants for us to magnify such occasions and places, and doing so is a mark of Taqwa, which emanates from our hearts.
Imagine you host a guest, someone whom you honour and hold very dear to your heart. Inevitably, your hospitality will reflect this—you will anticipate their reception with eagerness and longing anticipation. You may go out of your way to receive them from outside your home, serve them the best of foods, and perhaps even give them gifts.
<h3>“Similarly, in honouring Ramadan, we can demonstrate how much Ramadan means to us by ensuring such preparations are made before its start, so we can welcome the month of the Quran with open arms and most importantly, with an open heart.”</h3>
So how can one magnify the slogans of Allah during the month of Ramadan?
Here are some ways in which we can magnify this month:
1. Light up the night with prayer. Stand at night, and demonstrate your servitude to Allah. The nights of Ramadan are very special, as the Quran was first revealed at night. It is in the night that Allah draws closer to see His creation. It is at night that the recitation is more impactful on the hearts, and it is at night when we generally have more energy after being nourished at iftar.
In relation to the night prayers, Allah commands the Prophet ﷺ saying:
<blockquote>
“O you wrapped ˹in your clothes˺! Stand all night ˹in prayer˺ except a little—˹pray˺ half the night, or a little less, or a little more—and recite the Quran ˹properly˺ in a measured way.˹For˺ We will soon send upon you a weighty revelation. Indeed, worship in the night is more impactful and suitable for recitation.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/73:1-6">73:1-6</a>)
</blockquote>
Taraweeh is the ideal night prayer that you can attend, and if your commitments do not allow you to attend, then you should pray by yourself or with your family, any portion of the night.
Remember, it is about consistency. The Prophet ﷺ emphasised the importance of night prayer when he said,
<h3>“Every believer should pray at night, even if only as long as it would take to milk an ewe, and what is after the ʿishāʾ prayer is of the night. (Abu Ya’la).</h3>
Typically, milking a sheep or an ewe takes around 5-7 minutes, which is a relatively short time. Stand before Allah in awe, and recite His words before Him and supplicate to Him, and Allah will—as he promises—respond.
2. Make a routine and factor in time for recitation and reflection of the Quran.
We need to release the Quran as a captive of Ramadan. To incentivise us to frequent the Quran, we are reminded that the Quran is a source of good news and a source of happiness. It is Allah’s last sermon to us and a healing, although, often we attempt to remedy our hearts with the very things that made us sick in the first place!
It's time to break out of our previous habits, embrace the Quran properly and follow a routine that can lead to a more sustained attachment to the Quran after Ramadan.
Recite a small portion, look through the translation and note down any reflections which come to mind. These can be simple actionable points i.e. remember Allah during difficulty and hardship etc.
3. Make Dua, in the month of Dua.
Allah informs us in the verses immediately after ordering believers to fast:
<blockquote>
“When My servants ask you ˹O Prophet˺ about Me: I am truly near. I respond to one’s prayer when they call upon Me. So let them respond ˹with obedience˺ to Me and believe in Me, perhaps they will be guided ˹to the Right Way˺” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/2:186">2:186</a>)
</blockquote>
This verse appears in the context of fasting and Ramadan, highlighting the connection between the blessed month and that through Dua, we can get closer to Allah.
 Familiarise yourself with Duas from the Quran and prophetic Duas, and use these Duas in your prayers. One of the most important features of Ramadan is the acceptance of Duas, particularly during the odd nights in the last ten nights of the month.
It is even more effective to try and memorise Duas (with its meaning) from the sunnah and recite these in your tahajjud prayers. You can make Dua in any language in non-obligitary prayers, no doubt these will be accepted too. What matters is displaying your servitude and humility before Allah during dua.
May Allah accept our Duas, and grant us the good of both worlds. Amen
Interact with this reflection on Quranreflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23085">here</a>
Or Read more on this topic:
<a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23950">Hammad Fahim's Reflection on Surah Al-Qadr:1 - 5 | QuranReflect</a>
Mindfulness tip: Ready yourself for the night prayer with the right intention and proper preparation, set yourself for success with a routine that incorporates regular recitation of the Quran, and finally, go full speed ahead with Duas from reputable sources or from your own heart.
The next lesson discusses the Mindful Heart and how to focus on transformation of the inner self.

Honour the rites of Ramadan

The central place where Taqwa is stored is our hearts. Allah says,
<blockquote>
“That [is so]. And whoever honors the symbols [i.e., rites] of Allah—indeed, it is from the piety of hearts” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/22:32">22:32</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
If the central storage for Taqwa is the heart, then one has to constantly rid the heart of diseases such as arrogance, jealousy, hatred, and other blemishes so that Taqwa can dominate above all other influences.
<h3>“Taqwa is not something that simply manifests physically in our clothing and apparent realities.”</h3>
Perhaps this is the reason why the Prophet ﷺ would make the supplication:
اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا ، وَزَكِّها أنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا ، أنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلاَهَ
<h3>&quot;O Allah, grant my soul righteousness and purity, as You are the Best Purifier, Protector, and Guardian of it.&quot; (<a href="https://sunnah.com/muslim:2722">Muslim</a>)</h3>
In a world where ostentation and flamboyance are encouraged and where wearing designer wear can act as a status symbol and often a means of impressing others, and in an era where seeking likes and validation from others is commonplace, it is easy to fall into the trap of attempting to manifest Taqwa in our appearance and in our apparent interactions, without it really emanating from the heart.
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said,
<h3>“Verily, Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth, but rather He looks at your hearts and actions.” (<a href="https://sunnah.com/muslim:2564c">Muslim</a>)</h3>
Genuine Taqwa manifests in the subtle things, such as honesty in trade, acting upon a newly found guidance without wanting validation from anyone except Allah, and it manifests in the way we behave when no one is around us. It is easy to act with piety or put on a pretence in front of others, whilst inwardly having a heart that is devoid of real Taqwa and sincerity.
In conclusion, Taqwa emanates from deep within, and none can judge the Taqwa in the hearts of others by their outward appearance.
<blockquote>
“He has been aware of you from the time He produced you from the earth and from your hiding places in your mothers’ wombs, so do not assert your own goodness. He knows best who is mindful of Him” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/53:32">53:32</a>)
</blockquote>
Let this Ramadan be a month of true inner transformation. Focus on your soul and ask yourself: “What are the possible ways to reform my heart? For instance, could I make better choices in the way I express myself when I am upset or angry? Am I obsessed with the success of others and therefore unappreciative of the blessings Allah has given me? Am I obsessed with the way I look, forgetting Allah has made each one of us unique and beautiful in our own individual way?” Each one of us has something we can remove from our hearts and many things we can adorn our hearts with.
May Allah forgive us for our shortcomings and allow Taqwa to fill our hearts, so we remain dutiful servants to Him. Amen
Interact with this reflection on Quranreflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23425">here</a>
Or Read more on this topic:
<a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23127">Iraj Marjan's Reflection on Surah Al-Anfaal:24 | QuranReflect</a>
Mindfulness tip: Have a few secret deeds between you and Allah. It could be a hidden charity, a voluntary prayer in seclusion, a voluntary fast that no one knows about, or even 5 minutes of istighfar in the middle of the night.
The next lesson will focus on being mindful in communication.

A Mindful Heart

I glanced at the advert while on my journey on the London Underground. The advert read, “Order your contact lenses now for only 20 pence a day.” Not that I wear contact lenses, but I was attracted to the proposition of what appeared to be a well-priced solution for those who do. However, I realised this was clearly a marketing ploy. 20 pence a day per lens didn’t sound like a lot, but if you read the fine print (which is usually denoted with an asterisk *), it stated ‘20 pence per day per eye,’ which actually accumulates to 40 pence a day. Now, multiply this by 30 days, and this becomes 12 pounds a month, which no longer seemed cheap for a month's worth of lens supply!
I bring the above as an example because we live in a world where consumerism and capitalism are key driving forces of the economy, and companies are creative in the way they market their products.
<h3>“We are consumed by consumerism.”</h3>
And in an effort to encourage others to buy, and cajole consumers into buying, I would argue that more than often, marketing content is borderline unethical. The terms are often not disclosed on the face of the advert or product, and you have to dig deep to find out the real deal you are getting, and what you are truly buying.
The idiomatic phrase “It does what it says on the tin” is a scarce reality. The irony of this particular advert was the fact that the advert is targeting those who have poor eyesight and most likely will struggle to read the fine print!
Drawing from the above example in the discussion of this verse, Allah instructs believers to say a 'straightforward’ word. A straightforward word has nothing hidden. It is honest and transparent.
Imam Al Alusi explains the nuances of the word used in this verse for straightforward (سديدا),
<h3>“that the straightforward word is like that of an arrow which is straight when it is directed towards its intended target without deviating from its course.” (Ruh Al Ma’ani).</h3>
When we sugarcoat truths and disguise what should be made transparent, we end up misleading others, and that is dangerous, especially when it comes to important commitments. I remember dealing with a case of a marital conflict which arose because the wife was never told that her husband had a long-term illness prior to the marriage, and she later found out this information by accident. Similarly, the husband complained that the wife was not in good physical health also, something he learnt about after marriage! None of the parties had disclosed these facts even when these questions were raised prior to the marriage!
Perhaps, I suggested, if the matter was made clear in the course of discussion pre-marriage, both parties could have compromised and accepted Allah’s decree, rather than weaponising these issues to try and criticise one another after the marriage!
The call to speaking a straight word in this verse is rooted in having Taqwa of Allah. This means that your statements are driven by a deeper sense of fear and accountability, regardless of whether or not your speech will land you in the dream job, marriage, or similar.
Commenting on this verse, Imam Ibn Kathir explains the following benefits of speaking truthfully:
<h3>Allah, the Exalted, commands His believing servants to have Taqwa (consciousness of Allah) and to worship Him as if they see Him, and to speak with a sound and upright word, meaning a word that is straightforward without crookedness or deviation. He promises them that if they do so, He will rectify their deeds for them, meaning He will grant them success in righteous deeds, and He will forgive their past sins. Whatever may occur to them in the future, He will inspire them to repent from it. (Ibn kathir)</h3>
May Allah grant us the ability to speak to others with our Creator in mind. It will warrant His continued forgiveness for our sins, and He will grant us success in whatever we do, Insha'Allah. This is Allah’s offer. Is there a better deal than this? No fine prints—just straight talk.
Interact with this reflection on QuranReflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23641">here</a>
Mindfulness tip: The Prophet ﷺ advised us two things regarding speech: speaking the truth however hard it may be and maintaining silence when we have nothing good to say. Before uttering a word, ask yourself: Is it the truth? And is it good? If not, then maintain silence. (<a href="https://sunnah.com/bulugh/7/132">Bulugh al-Maram</a>
The next lesson discusses Taqwa and moral clarity and discusses verse <a href="https://quran.com/8:29">8:29</a>.

Mindful Communication

<blockquote>
“Believers, if you remain mindful of God, He will give you a criterion [to tell right from wrong] and wipe out your bad deeds, and forgive you: God’s favour is great indeed.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/8:29">8:29</a>)
</blockquote>
When a believer is mindful of his Lord, it enriches him to the degree where he experiences the epitome of happiness. Allah has arranged numerous benefits in this world and the Hereafter for those mindful of Him. This verse reminds us that whoever has Taqwa of Allah achieves four things, each of which is better than the world and all that is in it:
First: Al-Furqan (the criterion), which is the knowledge and guidance that allows the individual to distinguish between guidance and misguidance, truth and falsehood, lawful and unlawful, the good people and the bad.
What is the criterion, and why is it important?
The criterion is moral clarity, as described in the following phrase:
مِن بِتُّ أفْعَلُ كَذا حَتّى سَطَعَ الفُرْقانُ
<h3>&quot;I do such and such until the criterion (of right and wrong) becomes clear*.&quot;*</h3>
It may be that someone was committing sins such as clubbing or gambling until it dawned upon him that he was living a life of misguidance. But what if a person remains set in his ways, and fails to be corrected because of having no criterion?
Take the example of Nuh (AS), who came to his nation and said to them,
<blockquote>
&quot;Serve God, be mindful of Him and obey me.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/71:3">71:3</a>)
</blockquote>
He was one of the greatest prophets who preached to his people night and day, employing the best methods of engagement. Yet, they remained fixated upon misguidance and were destroyed as a result. What is worse, even as the punishment surrounded them, they thought they could seek refuge in high mountains and other elevated places. That is because they had no criterion that would enable them to avoid Allah’s wrath, although the evidence of His punishment was right before their eyes.
<h3>“When a person is endowed with the criterion, they are equipped to make the right choices. The perception of right and wrong is not blurred, which in turn means that they make the right choices to stay on the straight path to Jannah.”</h3>
Think of a person who travels for thousands of miles without a map in sight or a satellite navigation system giving instantaneous directions. They will likely run out of fuel and end up destitute by the end of the journey. The best criterion, no doubt, is Allah’s book, The Furqan. It is as though Allah is saying that whoever is mindful of Him, He will make it easy for them to follow His guidance (Quran), and He will give him insight to discern between right and wrong. Which will entail eternal happiness and success.
The second and third benefits of being mindful of Allah include the expiation of sins so that they are covered in this life and forgiveness of wrongdoings, which are forgiven on the Day of Judgement, with each encompassing the other. Expiation of sins includes minor transgressions, and forgiveness of wrongdoings includes the expiation of major sins.
Fourth: The immense reward and abundant recompense for those who have Taqwa and prioritise His pleasure over their desires, as the verse concludes with,
<blockquote>
&quot;And Allah is the possessor of great bounty.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/8:29">8:29</a>)
</blockquote>
highlighting the boundless blessings such a person will attain in both worlds because of their constant mindfulness of Allah.
Interact with this reflection on Quranreflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22798">here</a>
Or Read more on this topic:
<a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22854">Kamal Mohamed's Reflection | QuranReflect</a>
Mindfulness tip: In a world of fake news and AI-generated content, having the moral clarity to distinguish between good and bad has become blurry. Strengthen your ability to distinguish between right and wrong by paying attention to His guidance.
The next lesson discusses the topic of mindful enjoyment and how being mindful can help foster in us a sense of moderation and balance between materialism and spirituality.

Taqwa and Moral Clarity

<blockquote>
The love of desirable things is made alluring for men—women, children, gold and silver treasures piled up high, horses with fine markings, livestock, and farmland— these may be the joys of this life, but God has the best place to return to. (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:14">3:14</a>)
</blockquote>
No one is exempt from being attracted to worldly pleasures. Whether these are food and drink, entertainment, or the acquisition of properties and assets, there is no limit to what the world has to offer to keep us wanting more. Some social scientists call this ‘hedonistic habituation’. Think of the first mobile phone you had. There is a very high chance you no longer have it anymore, because life moves on giving birth to new trends and technology. What often happens is that we get habituated to the blessings around us, and as a result have the urge sooner or later to have the next big thing, or latest gadget. Such is the attraction of life and such is the fickle nature of human desires. Balancing our material needs with our spiritual aspirations, while maintaining a focus on both this life and the hereafter, can indeed be quite challenging.
In verse 14 of Surah Al Imran, Allah describes some of the appealing features of worldly enjoyment that mankind are instinctively drawn to. These include women, children, treasures of gold and silver, i.e., the modern equivalence of money and other assets such as shares, non-fungible tokens, Bitcoin and other commodities. Further spectacles of luxury and enjoyment are mentioned, including fine horses—the equivalent of today's premium cars, modern aircrafts etc. And finally, fertile land which can include all of the earth's rich minerals and natural resources such as oil, gas and similar.
At the conclusion of verse 14, Allah states that ‘those’ are the pleasures of this worldly life, and since the world is an ephemeral reality, all of its  riches and pleasures have a very short shelf life as well.
<h3>“What can be inferred from these verses is that whilst these attractions are elements of life that have been designed for us to enjoy, we should not become deluded into thinking that these luxuries are be-all and end-all because Allah has much better forms of enjoyment prepared for those who are mindful of Him. The pleasures that await those mindful of Allah are permanent and everlasting.”</h3>
The next verse starts with a question that the Prophet ﷺ is commanded to raise:
<blockquote>
“Shall I inform you of what is better than ˹all of˺ this?&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:15">3:15</a>)
</blockquote>
  
And then the answer,
<blockquote>
&quot;Those mindful ˹of Allah˺ will have Gardens with their Lord under which rivers flow, to stay there forever, and pure spouses, along with Allah’s pleasure.” And Allah is All-Seeing of ˹His˺ servants&quot;, (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:15">3:15</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
The verse highlights that all of life's pleasures are available to anyone and are not exclusive for a certain category of people. However, for the true everlasting pleasures, only those who were mindful of Allah and were mindful in the way they interacted with the worldly pleasures, without over indulgence or forbidden indulgence, will be eligible for the exclusive ever lasting reward of 'Gardens with their Lord under which rivers flow, to stay there forever, and pure spouses, along with Allah’s pleasure.'
Let us, this Ramadan, regain balance in the way we interact with the blessings Allah has given us, without overindulgence or indulgence in matters that are haram.
 Interact with this reflection on QuranReflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23033">here</a>
Or read more on this topic:
<a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/23417">Basit Minhas's Reflection on Surah Al-Muminoon:1 - 3 | QuranReflect</a>
Mindfulness tip: contrary to the essence of Ramadan, we have turned it into a month of overspending and extravagance. This Ramadan, be vigilant in keeping only what you need and sharing whatever is extra. That includes eating and drinking only what our bodies need, not what our stomachs desire.
The next lesson discusses the topic of Mindful Companionship and carefully selecting those who you consider to be your close friends.

Mindful Enjoyment

<h3>&quot;A friend in deed is a friend indeed.&quot;</h3>
One of the most important characteristics of a believer is truthfulness in beliefs, words, and actions. Allah associates Taqwa with the choice of company we keep:
<blockquote>
&quot;O you who have believed, be mindful of Allah and be with those who are true.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/9:119">9:119</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
Every friendship at its core is predicated upon some mutual benefit. It doesn’t matter what kind of friendship it is; there has to be some mutual transactional benefit conferred both ways, whether in entertainment, companionship, business, etc.
<h3>“If the benefit is just unilateral, I’d describe that less as a friendship and more as a dictatorship.”</h3>
At the core of a friendship based on faith, it would be reasonable to say that the object of the transaction is truth. It confers the best possible benefit and value both ways.
A friend in faith acts as an advisor and does not shy away from advising you truthfully about your flaws. He or she acts as a mirror to you, as described by the Prophet ﷺ. It could be as simple as advising you not to have raised your voice at ‘x’ in that manner.
Most importantly, the net effect of such friendship is illustrated in the fact that the truth will benefit its companion on the Day of Judgement.
<blockquote>
“God will say, &quot;This is a Day when the truthful will benefit from their truthfulness.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/5:119">5:119</a>)
</blockquote>
That is the best possible benefit one can extract from having friends who are truthful, as no doubt having them as an external shield prevents you from doing wrong, and the benefit of that mutual truthfulness will be reaped on the Day of Judgement. If Taqwa acts as our internal personal protection shielding us from immorality, having truthful friends acts as our external and social protection from evil.
Allah says that among those who will be saved from loss are
<blockquote>
&quot;those who have faith, do good, and urge each other to the truth, and urge each other to persevere.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/103:3">103:3</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
<blockquote>
“And whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger will be in the company of those blessed by Allah: the prophets, the people of truth, the martyrs, and the righteous—what honourable company!” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/4:69">4:69</a>)
</blockquote>
This Ramadan presents a prime opportunity to act upon the guidance of this verse, as no doubt we will cross paths with many inspiring individuals, and we can seek to build genuine friendships and find a friend in 'deed'. This is no doubt a way of fortifying our Taqwa.
May Allah bless us with righteous companions so we may urge each other to the truth, and urge each other to persevere.
Interact with this reflection on QuranReflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22698">here</a>
Mindfulness tip: Get a Ramadan buddy. Someone who will keep you focused on your Ramadan checklist and remind you when you slip.
The next lesson looks at how a believer is able to redeem himself after committing a sin, and that our mistakes do not prevent us from being among the muttaqeen (the constantly mindful of Allah).

Mindful Companionship

Taqwa is emphasised in this verse:
<blockquote>
“O believers! Be mindful of Allah in the way He deserves, and do not die except in ˹a state of full˺ submission ˹to Him˺.” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:102">3:102</a>)
</blockquote>
<h3></h3>
One should exert their level best to be mindful of Allah in all possible situations. But do not think for a moment that Allah is asking for us to be perfect and infallible.
<h3>“Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity, and piety does not mean immunity from sins. The pious are not pure angels or prophets, but they are human beings who make mistakes.”</h3>
Their virtue lies in the sensitivity of their senses and the vigilance of their consciences, as Allah said:
<blockquote>
“Indeed, those who fear [Allah]—when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight” (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/7:201">7:201</a>).
</blockquote>
So, if one of them slips into sin, they quickly repent and return to the right path, seeking forgiveness from their Lord. As Allah described the righteous among His servants:
<blockquote>
“And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins—and who can forgive sins except Allah?—and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.&quot; (Quran <a href="https://quran.com/3:135">3:135</a>).
</blockquote>
Those who reflect on the Quran will find that all the blessings of this world and the Hereafter are connected to piety. And here, their sinning did not take them out of the fold of the 'mutaqeen' (those mindful of their Creator).
So remember, just because you have slipped up or failed to do what you had promised to do, there is no automatic disqualification from belonging to the people of Taqwa. Just repent and pick up from where you left.
<h3>“It’s not about how you take off; it’s about the way you land.”</h3>
This is not a license to sin; rather, it is an incentive to quickly go back to Allah when we do.
May Allah make us among the Mutaqeen, Amen
Interact with this reflection on QuranReflect <a href="https://quranreflect.com/posts/22446">here</a>
Mindfulness tip: When you slip—and you will slip—immediately follow it with repentance and sincerely ask Allah for steadfastness.

The Mindful Sinner

Being mindful means to have awe of Allah. Undoubtedly, having awe-inspired fear of Allah is a noble thing, especially when the source and object of fear is Allah Himself.
Gai Eaton, a British diplomat, writer, historian, and Islamic Scholar
<h3>“Fear restrains, but it also awakens. Whether we are Jews, Christians or Muslims, we are commanded to be watchful, like people who live surrounded by dangers, constantly surrounded by dangers, constantly alert, always on the look-out not only for enemies beyond the the stockade but also for enemies within.  If there were no dangers, if there was nothing to fear, we should be tempted to sleep our lives away—or lose ourselves in dreams.” (Reflections by Gai Eaton, p. 30)</h3>
Being mindful of Allah reinforces our iman, safeguards us from the perils of temptations in this life, and protects us from punishment in the afterlife.
Bearing in mind the nature of Taqwa and its  all-encompassing role in our lives, we pray to Allah that He allows us to truly benefit from His guidance and to be mindful of Him at all times.
Finally, we conclude with the following Dua which the prophet ﷺ has taught us.
اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا وَزَكِّهَا أَنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا أَنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلاَهَا
Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha anta khairu man zakkaha, Anta waliyyuha wa maulaha
<h3>&quot;O Allah! Grant my soul its Taqwa (piety), and purify it. You are the best of those who purify it.&quot; (<a href="https://sunnah.com/muslim:2722">Muslim 2722</a>)</h3>

Conclusion

Discover the true purpose of Ramadan with the Mindful Fasting Learning Plan. Strengthen your Taqwa, deepen your faith, and transform your fasting. Start today!