Bless your debtors in the Holy Month

“And if the debtor is on straitened circumstances, then grant him time until it is easy for him to repay” (Surah al-Baqarah:280)

Ramadan is an opportunity to bless your debtors with the forgiveness of that which they owe you if it is financially viable. Your reward is with Allah, and he is ever just and generous. It is our responsibility to honour our commitments and pay our debts, but there is a great reward for those who, as an act of worship to Allah, forgive those who are in their debt.  

We can relieve another’s debt in two ways. If we have given money as a loan to someone and we know that he is genuinely not able to repay we should give them time.  Another way is to forgive it completely.

According to Surah al-Baqarah:281, “But if you remit it [the debt] by way of charity, that is better for you if you did but know. And be afraid of the Day when you shall be brought back to Allah. Then every person shall be paid what he earned, and they shall not be dealt with unjustly”

You can also help the one in debt by helping them pay off their debts.  It is important to care for people and try to alleviate their stresses and strains, whether financial or otherwise.

Word of Wisdom
Believers always win  [Qur’an 21:94]

So whoever does righteous deeds while he is a believer – no denial will there be for his effort, and indeed We, of it, are recorders.”  

Cuisine
Hot and cold mezze and soups
Mezze is the term used for little hot and cold appetizers usually served in Middle Eastern cuisine. They can be served for any meal, and the tradition is meant to unite people around the table in a spirit of sharing. Soups and mezze are a must during Iftar because they are filling, simple to eat, and frequently the first course served at Iftar. The most popular mezze dishes are hummus, falafel, baba ganoush, labneh, tabbouleh, fattoush, stuffed olives, dolmas, hard cheeses, meatballs and more. Make sure to include both hot and cold mezze on  your menu.

Fasting tips
Maintain oral hygiene
During Ramadan decreased intake of fluids causes decreased saliva production. This causes exaggeration of existing dental conditions like inflammation of gums, and caries of teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene and drink lots of water or fluids during evenings and Suhoor to help minimise this issue.