Issue No: 154
15th March 2013
3rd Jamadi al Awwal 1434 A.H.
Salamun alaykum,
First Day of Spring 2013: Vernal Equinox
The commencement of spring is just round the corner. This year it begins with the vernal equinox at 11:01 GMT on Wednesday 20th March, 2013 in the Northern Hemisphere. The word equinox is derived from the Latin words meaning “equal night.” At the time of the equinox, the sun is observed to be directly over the equator. Days and nights are approximately equal everywhere.
In Islamic traditions the moment the sun crosses the celestial equator is known as Tahweelu Shams. (Refer to separate email for a’mals –recommended devotions for Tahweel and Nawroz: 21st March)
With the commencement of spring season there is increasing daylight and warming temperatures. The rebirth of the flora and fauna takes place. Spring is also the time when green buds appear, birds chirp, worms emerge from the earth, flowers begin to bloom.
It is the time when animals which have been ‘sleeping’ through the cold winter season become alive, emerge from hibernation. All that was ‘dead’ during the cold spell of winter comes to life.
The season of spring provides mankind with an opportunity to reflect on these natural phenomena taking place all around. This opens another avenue to become aware of the Creator and knowing God. There are numerous verses in the Noble Qur’an inviting mankind to ponder over these various Divine signs.
“Indeed in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alteration of night and day there are signs for those who possess intellects. Those who remember Allah standing, sitting and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creations of the heavens and earth, (and say) Our Lord You have not created this inn vain. Immaculate are You! Save us from the punishment of the fire.” Sura Aali Imran 3: 190 -191
As one prepares to perform the devotions of Tahweelu Shams and Nawroz, is this not an opportunity to become more aware of the Creator of this marvelous universe together with all its contents and rededicate oneself to purification of the nafs and personality?
Does not the occurrence of spring equinox highlight a valuable lesson for muslims to tread the middle way in both the material and spiritual lives and reject all forms of extremism whether in beliefs, deeds, conduct and even worship?
“Thus We have made you a middle nation that you may be witness to the people and that the Messenger may be a witness to you.”
Sura al Baqara 2:143
Wa ma tawfiqi illa billah
Fazle Abbas Datoo
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Resident Alim
Wessex Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat