The Meanings of Being Tested with Illness at the End of Ramadan, Here’s the Explanation

Kapanlagi.com - As Ramadan comes to an end, many people actually experience a decline in physical condition. The body feels weak, stamina decreases, and some even fall ill. In fact, the last ten days of Ramadan are the most sacred, full of virtues and blessings. This phenomenon of illness at the end of this holy month raises the question: is this merely a coincidence, or is there a deeper spiritual meaning?

In Islamic teachings, no fate occurs without wisdom. Interestingly, illness that comes towards the end of Ramadan could be a good sign, even serving as a means of erasing sins.

As stated by Kiai Abdul Fatah al Hafidz, “Firstly, it can erase sins if endured with patience.”

1. Test from Allah

Sickness is often viewed as a test from Allah SWT, a challenge designed to measure our patience, faith, and perseverance in living life. In times when we are brought low by illness, there is actually a golden opportunity to draw closer to Him through prayer, istighfar, and moments of deep reflection. Patience in facing this trial also becomes a form of worship that is very noble in Islam.

More than just a test, sickness can also serve as a means of expiating sins, as stated in several hadiths, where sorrow and suffering can cleanse the soul from the stains of sin. However, we must remember that the expiation of sins is entirely in the hands of Allah SWT; sickness is not an automatic guarantee for the removal of our mistakes, but rather a valuable opportunity for repentance and self-improvement to become better.

2. Reminder of the Blessing of Health

Sickness at the end of Ramadan is not just a test, but also a reminder of the blessing of health that Allah SWT has bestowed. When someone recovers from illness, the hope is that they will be more grateful and more attentive to their health. In good health, worship can be performed with greater focus, allowing for full concentration on obedience to Him.

Moreover, illness serves as a valuable lesson to maintain physical and spiritual health in the future, encouraging us to reflect on lifestyles and habits that may be less than ideal. By realizing how precious health is, we are expected to become more caring and appreciative of our bodies and souls.

3. An Opportunity to Draw Closer to Allah

Sickness is not a barrier to worship; on the contrary, in a limited physical condition, one can delve deeper into acts of the heart such as dhikr, prayer, and istighfar. In Islamic teachings, all forms of worship hold great value, not limited to physical activities alone.

When the body is weak and powerless, the soul tends to draw closer to Allah, making this moment very spiritual. The relationship between the servant and the Creator becomes more intimate, with a more sincere heart, deeper prayers, and a stronger sense of submission.

In fact, the sickness experienced can serve as a reminder to engage in more istighfar and prayer, in line with the recommended practices in the last ten days of Ramadan. Thus, sickness can be a pathway to draw closer to Allah with greater devotion.

4. Permitted Not to Fast: Rukhshah in Islam

Islam is a religion that highly values humanity. When a Muslim is seriously ill and unable to fast, they are granted the concession to postpone the worship until their condition improves.

This rukhshah shows how Allah understands the limits of His servants' abilities. Indeed, the Prophet Muhammad SAW encouraged his followers to seek treatment when ill, emphasizing that maintaining health is also a form of worship.

Therefore, there is no need to feel guilty if one cannot attend tarawih or fast due to physical conditions. A sincere intention and patience in facing illness can actually become a form of worship that is very meaningful and brings great rewards.

5. Mercy that Elevates Status

Illness is often viewed as a test from Allah, as well as a means to elevate His servant's status. In these difficult moments, every small sin seems to be forgiven, and for those who are patient, abundant rewards await at the end of the road. Some scholars refer to it as "hidden mercy," a beauty in hardship.

In the hadiths, we are taught that every sorrow, pain, even a thorn prick can serve as an expiation for sins. Thus, the illness we may experience at the end of Ramadan could be a signal from Allah to purify our hearts in preparation for Idul Fitri.

Patience while the body weakens at the end of Ramadan can become an act of charity whose value far exceeds that of other seemingly grand acts. In this context, illness is not merely suffering, but rather a blessing that guides us towards purity on the day of victory.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by illness as a test in Islam?

Illness is considered a test from Allah to test a person's patience and faith.

Can illness erase sins?

Yes, it is mentioned in several hadiths that illness and sadness can erase sins, but this depends on Allah's will.

How to cope with illness during Ramadan?

Accept illness with patience, pray, and continue to strive to perform worship according to one's ability.

Is seeking treatment when ill permitted in Islam?

Yes, seeking treatment is part of the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and is highly recommended.

(kpl/mni)