Shayateen are widely believed to be chained during the holy month of Ramadan; yet, people are seen committing sins. How does it happen to be so?
Abu Hurairah (rta) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (sa) said:
“When the month of Ramadan starts- the gates of heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed, and the Shayateen are chained.” (Bukhari)
The above words of the Messenger of Allah (sa) explain that the Shayateen are chained- not annihilated or eliminated completely.
Apparently, Shaytan is our affirmed enemy, and he will always try to mislead the believers with his tricks, lies and deception, though restricted and imprisoned he may be.
Shaytan’s power during Ramadan
During this pious month Allah (swt) restricts Shaytan’s power to inspire evil and mischief to a considerable extent- as compared to the other times of the year. In any way it does not mean that they are ruined completely from creating mischief.
In fact, it is clearly evident from what happens to the believers in the month of Ramadan.
Those, who normally do not pray, begin to perform the prayers regularly; those who are never seen in the mosques, start attending the religious congregations more frequently; those who hardly read Quran, make conscious efforts to recite the glorious Book of guidance in the holy month of Ramadan. There is a definite and notable increase in the devoutness and worship of the believers in this blessed month.
Locked, yet strong!
Although, the Shayateen are restrained by Allah (swt), yet they can whisper; and through whispering- Shayateen try, and get the human beings close to them.
It is narrated by Ali bin Al Husain from Safiya (rta), that the Prophet Muhammad (sa) said:
“The Shaytan circulates in the body of Adam’s (as) offspring, as one’s blood circulates in it.” (Bukhari)
It means the Shaytan circulates in the body of a man, just like one’s blood circulates in it; thus, this avowed enemy of man is constant in his whispering of evil- whenever he is given an opportunity.
Shaytan’s main target- You!
Undoubtedly, the Shaytan’s main target is the true believer of Allah (swt); even though, he is chained and his power is curtailed during this holy month of Ramadan- but because of his keen hatred, and enmity towards the believers and worshippers of Allah (swt), he will continue to make mischief in whatsoever way he can.
The Almighty mentions in the Quran,
“Who whispers in the breasts of mankind, Of Jinns and men.” (An-Naas 114:5-6)
Evidently, if a person is sinning continuously for eleven months, and Shaytan has worked hard on him/her- it is as if the evil has been injected inside the heart and mind of the person. Hence, the person will still feel the effect of the sin throughout Ramadan- no matter Shaytan has been locked up.
The most common example is watching television. Many people are so addicted to watching their daily soaps. or their favourite TV shows. Some can’t resist and watch during Ramadan; and some record them so that they can watch it later.
Stronger the belief, weaker the mischief
The believers, who are observing the rules of Allah (swt), are concerned and apprehensive; hence, Shaytan control over them is reduced.
This sacred month, with all its blessings and spiritual motivations, lays pressure on Shaytan; and therefore, it acts as a kind of a barrier between the believer and the Shatyan.
The one who has deep faith in Allah (swt), His Messenger (sa) and the Last Day, identifies the evil’s mischief, and whispering of the Shaytan. The more faith and trust one has in Allah (swt), and the Last Day, the more he will be able to distinguish, and tackle the mischief of the Shaytan.
Allah (swt) says in the Holy Quran,
“O mankind! Verily, the Promise of Allah is true. So let not this present life deceive you, and let not the chief deceiver (Satan) deceive you about Allah. Surely, Shaytan (Satan) is an enemy to you, so take (treat) him as an enemy. He only invites his Hizb (followers) that they may become the dwellers of the blazing Fire.” (Al Fatir 35:5-6)
Indeed, we praise Allah (swt), seek His help and ask for His forgiveness. Whoever Allah (swt) guides, none can misguide; and whoever He allows to fall astray, none can guide them aright.
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