In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Respected muftis, mukhtasibs, imams of mosques and parishes, madrasa teachers, dear brothers and sisters!
On behalf of the Spiritual Assembly of Muslims of Russia and on my own behalf, I cordially congratulate you on the advent of Ramadan — the month of mercy, purification, and spiritual elevation.
The blessed month of Ramadan enters our lives not merely as another date on the calendar, but as a special time in which a person is granted the opportunity to pause, to look into the depths of their own soul, and to hear what, amid the daily hustle, is drowned out by the noise of worries and anxieties. It is a month when the outside world remains the same, but within the believer a quiet, profound transformation and illumination begins.
Fasting is prescribed for us not for the sake of deprivation nor for trials in themselves. The Holy Quran says: “O you who have believed! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become God-fearing.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
In these words lies a meaning that cannot be exhausted by a single explanation. God-fearing (taqwa) is not fear of punishment, but the awareness of the Creator’s constant presence in every moment of our lives; it is an inner support through which a person restrains themselves from injustice, from harshness, from empty words and hasty decisions. For He is the One who sees you, even if you do not see Him!
Ramadan is the month of the Quran, the month when the Revealed Word should resound not only in mosques but also in our actions, in our relationships, in our treatment of parents, children, neighbors, and those in need of support. During this time, one understands with particular clarity that a person’s true wealth lies not in accumulated property nor in social status, but in the purity of intention and sincerity before the Creator.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) warned that there are people who gain nothing from their fast but hunger and thirst. This is a serious reminder for each of us: fasting is not only abstinence of the body, but also purification of the heart; not only refraining from food, but also refraining from slander, irritation, and arrogance. If the tongue is not restrained, if the heart is filled with malice or envy, then the external form of worship loses its depth.
Ramadan teaches us patience — not a passive patience, but an active one, which gives rise to mercy and encourages good deeds. It cultivates in us responsibility — before the Lord of the worlds, before our families, before society. It is a month when a small good deed can become great, and a sincere word can support someone who has almost lost hope.
In these blessed days of fasting, let us strive to be more attentive to those around us; let us support families facing hardship; let us strengthen the unity and solidarity of our communities; let us fill mosques not only with our presence but with active participation, a desire for knowledge, and service.
May the Almighty strengthen us in sincerity, grant us steadfastness in trials, purify our hearts from all that is superficial, and fill them with the light of faith. May each day of Ramadan become for us a step toward inner renewal, spiritual elevation, reconciliation with people, and drawing closer to the pleasure of the Creator.
May this month be a time after which we emerge transformed — wiser, more patient, more compassionate, and more responsible toward our faith and our homeland.
With respect and good prayers,
Mufti of Moscow,
Head of the Spiritual Assembly of Muslims of Russia,
Albir Hazrat Krganov
