The onset and rapid transmission of novel Coronavirus have taken the whole world by surprise. Where there is a whole body of scientists and researchers working to find its cure, the religious faction is taken aback. People are firing queries at them, to which they see no definite answer.

Is it a punishment from Allah? A test? Or is the Day of Qiyamah about to come?

Quite honestly, debates like these serve no purpose. Our religion advises us to focus on a bigger picture. Never lose our habit of being grateful and patient. Yet, the confusion that many people face these days is how to observe the above two (patience and gratefulness)?

The entire world is in chaos, and we can’t help but feel upset.

The Good that Tags Along

Now, let’s look at the brighter side. COVID-19 has hit us, precisely at the time when we are about to enter the happiest time of the year – RAMADAN!

Typically, Muslims celebrate this month with a rejuvenated faith each year. The mosques stay full, and conflicts in the society level down to zero (almost!). The faces are happy, and everyone in the community stands as a united front.

However, this year things are different. Mosques have been closed to curb further outbreak and people are under strict social distancing practice. Many of us feel tense. And we must fight away the thoughts that break our spirits. We should try to view the half full glass, instead of moping for the half-empty one.

This virus is a blessing in disguise, if we use our insight. It is a reminder that Allah is the Most Powerful, no matter how much the human boasts around about his knowledge. It is about time we realize this and re-establish our lost connectivity with the Divine.

Establishing Divine Connection

The lock-down can be an excellent opportunity for you to strengthen your relationship with the Quran.

Let’s see how:

We can read more Quran

Being at home, scrolling down social media brings no benefit. The only thing we feel after browsing our phones these days is STRESS!

The best way to beat anxiety is through Quran. Now you can utilize most of your time reading the Quran. That Online Tajweed Class you were delaying for so long can now be taken easily. You also get more time after Fajr and Maghrib prayers.

So instead of folding your mat, keep sitting. Take out your Mushaf and beautifully recite the Quran. You will feel more hopeful and optimistic.

We can understand the translation

The main reason why most people do not pick up the practice of understanding the Quran is their busy schedule. They assume that they can understand Tafseer at a later part of their lives. Perhaps when they have retired or have fewer domestic responsibilities.

They ignore the Master Plan of the Almighty. How could they presume they will live to see those days?

This virus is teaching us many new things. Among that, one lesson we have learned is – no one knows what is coming next!

It is time we set our priorities right. Understanding the Word of Allah is not optional. It is the purpose of our life (among others). So during this lockdown, you can enroll yourself in the Online Tafseer Lessons. A few days in the classroom, and you will feel a difference in your perspective. Insha’Allah, you will enjoy it to such an extent that you won’t feel snapping out of these lessons even when things go back to normal.

We can memorize the Quran

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) said: “Indeed, Allah will elevate some people with this book, and he will degrade others with it.”

None of us wants to fall into the latter category. Why not make this possible during the lock-down? We can devote more of our time to finish the memorization we have left midway. And if you are someone who always wished to begin the Hifdh journey. Now is the best time to do that!

You can seek assistance from an Online Quran Tutor or ask someone in the family who is proficient at reading the Quran. Remember, this is a noble endeavor. When you set out on it, you will watch miracles happening in your life.

No one is asking you to complete the entire Quran memorization. If it is hard for you, you can memorize a few surahs only. When you start reciting them during your Taraweeh in Ramadan, you will have a sense of extraordinary happiness.

Verdict – COVID 19 will make you a better and stronger Muslim!

We will repeat – do not let this time of crisis break your Imaan.

Do not waste these hours on social media or watching movies. Because you will end up more depressed and anxious. Do not let these things break you!

It is a golden opportunity to recreate your Divine Connectivity. You can make these moments precious by spending more time with the Quran. With uplifted spirit and friendship of Allah, nothing can bring you down.

Take this therapy for a month, at least, and let us know how you feel.