By: Dr. Ahmad Zam Zam, S.Pd., M.Hum.
Ramadan is more than just refraining from food and drink. Hidden behind the act of fasting is a profound joy, and one of the greatest joys for those who fast with true faith is the anticipation of meeting Allah.
In the Qur’an, at the end of Surah Al-Kahf, Allah sets forth the conditions for those who hope to meet Him. This honor is not granted to everyone, but only to those who fulfill two essential requirements. Allah says:
“Whoever hopes for the meeting with his Lord, let him do righteous deeds and associate none in the worship of his Lord.” (Surah Al-Kahf: 110)
These two conditions are:
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Performing righteous deeds—actions carried out with sincerity by those who strive for goodness.
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Sincerity for Allah alone—worshiping Him without associating anything or anyone with Him.
Interestingly, in Arabic, the word sholeh (righteous) has many related meanings that further clarify the concept of good deeds. Words like toyyib (pure and good), khoir (virtue), ma’ruf (acts of kindness recognized universally), ihsan (excellence in goodness), and birr (broad and profound righteousness) all relate to amal sholeh (righteous deeds). This shows that righteousness is not just about rituals but encompasses all forms of goodness in life.
Allah also affirms in Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:23-24) that those who perform righteous deeds will receive the glad tidings of Paradise, where they will be welcomed by angels who greet them with peace:
"They will enter Gardens of Eternity along with the righteous among their parents, spouses, and descendants. And the angels will come to them from every gate, saying, ‘Peace be upon you for the patience you have shown. How excellent is the final home!’" (QS. Ar-Ra'd: 23-24)
If we truly desire to meet Allah in an honorable state, we must ensure that all our actions are righteous and sincere. Ramadan is the perfect opportunity to multiply our righteous deeds—not just obligatory acts like prayer and fasting, but also small acts of kindness such as helping others, speaking with kindness, and guarding our hearts from negativity.
May this blessed month bring us closer to Allah through sincere and righteous deeds, so that one day we may experience the greatest joy—meeting Him in a state of divine acceptance and pleasure. Ameen.
#AmalSholeh #MeetAllah #KultumRamadan2025 #RamadanBerkah
