The Role of Perseverance and Gratitude in the Last 10 Nights

As a new Muslim, embarking on your spiritual journey can be both exciting and challenging. The last 10 nights of Ramadan hold immense significance, and understanding their importance can deepen your connection with Allah. Let’s explore how perseverance and gratitude can help you during this period.

1. The Significance of the Last 10 Nights

The last 10 nights of Ramadan are a time of heightened spirituality and divine blessings. Among these nights lies the Night of Special Status, which is a night that is better and higher in rank than 1,000 months. (Quran 97:3). Imagine the magnitude of blessings and forgiveness available during this time!

2. Perseverance: A Steadfast Journey

What Is It?

Perseverance (Sabr in Arabic) is not merely enduring difficulties; it’s about maintaining steadfastness and trust in Allah even when faced with challenges. For New Muslims, this resilience is essential as you navigate the intricacies of Islamic practices which may at times seem daunting.

How Can New Muslims Practice Perseverance?

• Learn Gradually: Don’t overwhelm yourself. Take small steps in learning the basics of prayer, fasting, and other acts of worship. Seek guidance from well- grounded, knowledgeable individuals and reliable resources familiar with your situation.
• Embrace Imperfection: Understand that perfection isn’t the goal. Allah appreciates sincere efforts. If you stumble during prayer or forget something, know that Allah knows your genuine intention.
• Seek Support: NMA is here to support you in this journey. Reach out to us if you need help
• Build your perseverance: Use the last 10 nights of Ramadan to build up your resilience. Seeking the Night of Special Status in these last 10 nights requires a lot of dedication. If possible, set aside time each night to spend in devotional acts. Try to put in as much time as you can without exhausting yourself.
• Scale up: You could start with a lesser amount of time in the first of the 10 nights and gradually keep increasing. Perseverance will play an important role in this gradual building up of your capacity.

3. Gratitude: A Heartfelt Expression

What Is Gratitude?

Gratitude (Shukr in Arabic) is acknowledging Allah’s blessings and expressing heartfelt thanks. It’s recognizing that every breath, every moment, is a gift from Him.

How Can New Muslims Practice Gratitude?

• Start with Basics: Use these 10 nights to thank Allah for all the good things you have in life – food, shelter, and health. Thank Him for bringing you to Islam, allowing you to reach this Ramadan, and enabling you to worship Him in it.
• Reflect on Blessings: Each night, take a moment to ponder the blessings you’ve received since embracing Islam. Your faith, supportive people online or offline, and your newfound purpose in life are all gifts.
• Thank Allah for achievements: Gratitude softens the heart and strengthens faith. These last 10 nights are a good time to thank Allah for all that you have achieved in life, whether it’s on the work front, personal life, or even the worship that you have been able to do this Ramadan.

Conclusion

Dear new Muslim, embrace perseverance/resilience, and gratitude. Allah knows your struggles, and He appreciates your sincere efforts. The last 10 nights are a golden opportunity to draw closer to Him. May your journey be filled with blessings, understanding, and love.

Remember: You are not alone. Allah is with you every step of the way.