The Opening

The first Quran I even came to own and to this day still do.

Al Fatiha – The Opening.

It seems fitting to dedicate the entry after Bismillah to Al Fatiha.
This entry is by no means an in depth study of the wondrous surah but rather a snapshot into the Islamic month of Ramadhan – of which today is the thirteenth night. I am currently observing the obligatory fast meaning to partake in sehri (to eat in the final portion of the night before dawn) and break the fast at magrib (sunset).

I love this month.

I love how it makes me feel.

I love how it makes me want to be.

See, there is a stark purity to the month and a blinding need within one to return to the path.
And it all began in the Month of the Quraan.

I had hoped to read as much of the Quraan as possible this year. After all it is standard practice to complete (a minimum of) one full recitation of the Book within this blessed month. So I must try. Try to read more. For every time I open the pages of my Quraan and begin to recite my conscious becomes clear, my heart at ease and my mind finally at rest from the ins and outs of everyday.

It is a barrier of my own creation that stops me from reading with regularity and I sincerely pray that recitation of the Quraan become a daily routine, which I practise with ease, until I pass (Ameen).

I’m placing a translation of Al Fatiha below foremost as a reminder and aid to me. Keeping in mind that the translations are always to the nearest possible meaning.

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds.
The Beneficent, the Merciful.
Master of the Day of Judgement.
You alone we worship and You alone we ask for help.
Guide us on the straight path.
The path of those whom You hast favoured;
Not the path of those who earn Your anger nor of those who go astray.

(Ameen)

And unto you be Peace.