Don't Let Up Now! Maximize the Last 10 Days of Ramadan

The last 10 Days.. Don’t let the race horse be more clever than you!

Ibn al-Jawzi رحمها الله said:

❝When the race horse knows that it is nearing the end of the track it exerts all of its effort to win the race. 

Do not allow the race horse to be more clever than you. 

For verily, deeds are judged by their conclusions. So if you didn't do well with welcoming Ramadan then perhaps you will do better bidding it farewell. ❞

Hasan al-Basri  رحمها الله said:

“Improve your performance in what is left (of time) and you will be forgiven for that which has already passed. 

So take special care of the time you have left because you do not know when your soul will be turned over to Allah’s Mercy.”

As Ramadan nears its conclusion, it's easy to feel a sense of accomplishment or even a slight dip in motivation. However, the last ten nights of Ramadan are considered especially blessed and hold immense potential for spiritual growth.  This article explores how we can make the most of this precious time, drawing inspiration from the words of renowned scholars.

The Final Stretch: A Time for Increased Effort

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the importance of intensifying worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan.  Just as a runner pushes harder towards the finish line, we should strive to elevate our worship and devotion in these final days.

Learning from the Racehorse: A Powerful Analogy from Ibn al-Jawzi

The scholar Ibn al-Jawzi (may Allah have mercy on him) offers a powerful analogy:

"When the race horse knows that it is nearing the end of the track it exerts all of its effort to win the race.  Do not allow the race horse to be more clever than you."

This analogy reminds us that even if our start to Ramadan wasn't ideal, we can still strive for a strong finish. The last ten nights present a golden opportunity to redouble our efforts and reap immense rewards.

Hasan al-Basri's Reminder: Forgiveness Through Improved Actions

Another scholar, Hasan al-Basri (may Allah have mercy on him), emphasizes the power of making the most of the remaining time:

"Improve your performance in what is left (of time) and you will be forgiven for that which has already passed."

This reminds us that Allah (SWT) is Most Forgiving. By focusing on good deeds and increased devotion in the remaining days, we can seek forgiveness for any shortcomings earlier in Ramadan.

Practical Tips for a Fulfilling Ramadan Finale

Here are some practical tips to maximize your worship during the last ten nights:

Increase Your Night Prayers: Devote more time to Taraweeh prayers, night prayers (Tahajjud), and Quran recitation.

Focus on Charity and Good Deeds: Increase your acts of charity, strengthen your ties with family, and spread kindness.

Seek Forgiveness and Supplicate Sincerely: Engage in sincere repentance, recite powerful supplications, and pray for Laylatul Qadr's blessings.

Maintain a Mindful State: Be conscious of your actions and words, strive for good character, and avoid negativity.

By following these tips and drawing inspiration from the words of the scholars, we can ensure a fulfilling and rewarding conclusion to our Ramadan journey. 

May Allah (SWT) grant us the ability to make the most of this blessed time. Ameen.

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