A spiritual cycle beyond Ramadan

In his fourth chronicle, Abd El-Hafid Benchouk recalls that the month of Ramadan is coming to an end, but that worship should not stop with him. He underlines the importance of continuing spiritual efforts beyond this blessed period. Author of the book “A Muslim year: living your faith, meditating, sharing and transmitting ” Published by Hachette editions, Abd el-Hafid Benchouk is a spiritual master and guide of the Sufi house in Saint-Ouen.

He insists on the cyclical nature of time, explaining that each month of the Muslim calendar has a clean personality and offers particular opportunities to get closer to God.

Chronicle report

The month of Chawwal and its six days of fasting

One of the first reminders he makes concerns the fast of the six days of Chawwal, a Sunnah recommended by the Prophet (peace and blessings on him). He explains how to fast these six days after Ramadan is spiritually equivalent to an annual fast, thanks to the principle of multiplication of rewards in Islam.

The other months: a continuous journey

Abd el-Hafid Benchouk insists that Islam is not limited to a month of intense worship. He cites several important months of the Muslim lunar calendar:

  • Dhul Qi’dah and Dhul Hijja : month of Hajj and Ten days of great blessing.
  • Muharram : sacred month marked by the fast of 10 Muharram (Achoura).
  • Rabi ‘al-awwal : month of commemoration of the birth of the prophet.

He also recalls the importance of white days, fasting on Monday and Thursday, and Friday, day of prayer and recall.

A permanent spiritual quest

The speaker highlights a fundamental principle: the quest for God is continuous. He quotes Surah Ash-Sharh, who encourages to chain good deeds and remain permanently turned towards God.

Divine presence in the believer’s heart

The intervention ends with a deep reflection on the notion of divine presence. Although God has appointed a sacred place, Kaaba, he also said that the heart of the sincere believer can contain him. This means that worship should not be perceived as a ritual obligation, but as an inner and sincere connection with the Creator.

Conclusion: Towards a spiritually rich year

Abd el-Hafid Benchouk concludes by inviting believers to make an opportunity for worship and proximity to God all year round. He urges us to preserve the divine presence in our hearts and to remain constant in our spiritual efforts, beyond the month of Ramadan. May Allah guide us on this path and grant us sincerity in our actions.