I have to let you know: I am going to offend a lot of people with this post.
Also, the purpose of this post is not to make pronouncements, but to raise questions.
I have been convinced more and more, as time goes by – and I allow thoughts to percolate within – that a lot of beliefs that purport to be fundamental to the Islamic mindset are perhaps more a reflection of human thinking and specific societal values.
The one aspect that has me perplexed more and more is the belief that chanting or reciting a specific verse a prescribed number of times will have some perceivable impact on ones fate, or health, or life.
Now hold on. I don’t mean to diss recitation all together. I know there are many blessings to be had in reading the Quran. But there are many more to be had in understanding the Quran.
And I will also concede that the meditational impact of chanting has been scientifically proven. I am not against that aspect of recitation at all.
But when people say “Recite XYZ verse 10,000 times and you will be cured of diabetes.” Or “Chant ABC 100,000 times first thing in the morning and you will get a better job”.
Really?
How can a belief that was revealed with the word “Read” contain something that runs contrary to logic?
The Quran over and over again tells people to think! To observe! To learn!
“And He has subjected to you, as from Him, all that is in the heavens and on earth: behold, in that are signs indeed for those who reflect.” (45: 13)
I’m a person who believes in science. In things being proved. In getting off ones back and DOING.
When people say “just sit, recite, and all can be attained”, it seems to me as being the epitome of laziness. Of giving up. Of refusing to take responsibility for ones actions.
If, instead of spending 3 days chanting, you actually got off the couch and DID, you might actually get somewhere.
Now, I’m not negating the power of prayer. But prayer should be an AND, not an OR; and definitely not an ONLY.
In Ramadan, we are told that it is a chance to get closer to Allah. What makes more sense: locking yourself away in a room and reciting, or volunteering at a homeless shelter?
I know it is important to build a relationship with God, and we do that 5 times a day.
How about we build a relationship with Gods words as well? In doing! Studying! Making a difference!
I am not a poster child for Islam, by no means. But Allah has talked to me directly in the Quran. And this is what I hear.
What do you hear?
Disjoint Wisdom 
One response to “My Ramadan Post”
Bravo!
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