Episode 3: Mencapai Derajat Ketakwaan || Ust. H. Syukran Jayadi, S.Sos.I., M.Pd.I.

Summary

This inspiring sermon emphasizes the true purpose of fasting during Ramadan: to achieve takwa (piety) and spiritual growth. The speaker highlights key qualities of a pious person, such as fear of Allah, following the Quran’s teachings, and practicing gratitude and tolerance. It also stresses the importance of good deeds, charity, and respecting others, especially those not fasting. Through reflections on the guidance of Islamic figures like Sayidina Ali and Gus Dur, the sermon encourages self-improvement and cultivating a closer relationship with Allah, making Ramadan a transformative and spiritually fulfilling month.

Takeaways

• 😀 The purpose of fasting during Ramadan is to cultivate a person’s piety (taqwa) and closeness to Allah.
• 😀 Fasting is not just about abstaining from food, but about enhancing one's devotion and strengthening faith.
• 😀 The verse from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183) highlights that fasting is a means to help us achieve taqwa, with the hope of becoming better people.
• 😀 According to Sayidina Ali, taqwa involves feeling fear (khauf) of Allah, which should encourage us to get closer to Him.
• 😀 A person's faith (iman) can fluctuate, rising with good deeds like fasting, praying, and reading the Quran, and falling due to sinful actions.
• 😀 Ramadan is seen as a time of mercy (rahmah) and forgiveness (maghfirah), a month to refine one's character and become a more consistent worshipper.
• 😀 A key aspect of piety is following the guidance of the Quran (amal bitanzil), which should be prioritized during Ramadan for spiritual growth.
• 😀 A higher level of fasting involves not seeking recognition from those who are not fasting, and showing respect for their needs.
• 😀 Gratitude and contentment (shukr) are essential for a believer. One should express thankfulness verbally (alhamdulillah) and through actions like charity and worship.
• 😀 During Ramadan, Muslims should avoid forcing others to stop their activities or business, respecting their right to earn a living or live according to their circumstances.
• 😀 True piety involves preparing for a good and meaningful life beyond this world, making the most of one's time on earth through good deeds and acts of worship.

Q & A

What is the main goal of fasting during Ramadan according to the speaker?

The main goal of fasting during Ramadan is to develop *taqwa* (piety), which means to become more mindful and conscious of Allah, striving to improve spiritually through self-discipline and devotion.

What does the speaker mean by 'taqwa' and how is it defined in the Qur'an?

'Taqwa' is defined as piety or being mindful of Allah. The speaker references Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183), which suggests that fasting is a means to develop *taqwa*. The speaker also mentions Sayyidina Ali's definition, which emphasizes fear and awe of Allah as key components of *taqwa*.

How does the speaker describe the role of the Qur'an in Ramadan?

The Qur'an is described as the ultimate guide and source of inspiration during Ramadan. It is not only a spiritual guide but also a means of healing and growth, helping Muslims to align their actions with Allah’s will and improving their character.

What is the significance of gratitude (shukr) during Ramadan?

Gratitude is a key aspect of Ramadan, where Muslims are encouraged to express thankfulness for Allah's blessings, whether in abundance or scarcity. The speaker stresses that showing gratitude through both words (saying 'Alhamdulillah') and actions (like performing good deeds) strengthens one's connection with Allah.

What did the speaker say about how Muslims should treat those who are not fasting during Ramadan?

Muslims are encouraged to respect those who are not fasting. The speaker emphasizes that true piety is reflected not in forcing others to follow the same practices but in showing tolerance, such as not pressuring businesses to close or stopping others from working during fasting hours.

What does the speaker highlight about the relationship between fasting and good character?

Fasting is seen as a tool for cultivating good character. The speaker stresses that fasting during Ramadan should be accompanied by increased empathy, tolerance, and respect for others, not just an external practice of abstaining from food and drink.

Why does the speaker mention the example of the bee and the fly?

The bee and the fly serve as metaphors for the choices people make in life. The bee seeks good (flowers) and produces something beneficial (honey), while the fly seeks impurity. The speaker uses this example to encourage people to choose goodness and strive for positive actions that will benefit themselves and others.

What is the significance of charity (sadaqah) and zakat during Ramadan?

Charity and zakat during Ramadan are highly emphasized, as they carry immense spiritual rewards. The speaker explains that giving charity during Ramadan is especially significant because it multiplies in value, and even voluntary actions (sunnah) during this month are rewarded as if they were obligatory.

How does the speaker suggest Muslims should interact with technology during Ramadan?

The speaker highlights the importance of interacting with the Qur'an more than with technology. While acknowledging the widespread use of phones, the speaker challenges the audience to spend more time reading and reflecting on the Qur'an during Ramadan to deepen their faith.

What does the speaker say about the concept of *khauf* (fear) in the context of *taqwa*?

The speaker explains that *khauf* (fear) of Allah is a necessary component of *taqwa*. This fear motivates Muslims to improve their relationship with Allah and to act in ways that please Him, leading to spiritual growth and closer proximity to Allah.