Why do most Muslims struggle to uphold the values of Ramadan year-round?

ZANZIBAR: RAMADAN, the holiest month in Islam, is a time of intense spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion to Allah (GOD).

Muslims worldwide observe fasting from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual activity.

Beyond physical discipline, Ramadan emphasizes moral and ethical self-restraint—encouraging believers to refrain from sinful speech and behaviours, such as lying, backbiting, and corruption.

During this sacred month, communities experience a heightened sense of unity and morality, as young people refrain from theft, cheating, and substance abuse, while charitable acts increase as Muslims strive to help those less fortunate.

Incidents of suicide, domestic violence, and mob justice or people taking law in their own hands, drop drastically and ‘complete’ peace and harmony among members of community, are witnessed during Day and Night.

Ordinary people witness, even in public offices, service providers are seen offering fair and honest assistance without the usual demands for bribes.

Genderbased violence (GBV) cases decline, and social harmony improves, demonstrating the profound impact of Ramadan’s teachings.

However, a pressing question remains: Why do many Muslims struggle to maintain these positive habits beyond the holy month? The Challenge of Sustained Commitment: Muslim scholars and leaders have long debated this issue.

Sheikh Thabit Jongo, a preacher in Zanzibar believes the problem lies in the lack of long-term commitment, self-discipline, and self-control.

He argues that the behavioural changes observed during Ramadan should not be temporary but a foundation for year-round ethical conduct.

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“The lifestyle of refraining from sinful deeds, as practiced during Ramadan, is meant to continue throughout one’s life,” he emphasizes.

Similarly, Sheikh Othman Maalim, a renowned preacher in Zanzibar, points out that if Muslims upheld their Ramadan values consistently, issues like theft, corruption, GBV, and poverty would significantly diminish.

He highlights that Ramadan serves as a moral training ground, yet many revert to their old ways once the month concludes.

A Call for Consistency: The message of sustained spiritual and moral growth is echoed by political leaders, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her Zanzibar counterpart, Alhaji Hussein Ali Mwinyi.

Both leaders advocate for the continuous practice of religious teachings, emphasizing that all faiths promote righteousness and integrity.

During Iftar events, President Mwinyi has repeatedly urged Muslims to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan in their daily lives.

Overcoming the Post-Ramadan Slump: Maintaining the discipline of Ramadan beyond the holy month requires conscious effort and commitment.

Here are some practical ways to integrate its teachings into everyday life as advised by scholars: Regular Acts of Worship – Continuing with voluntary fasting, daily prayers, and Quranic study helps reinforce the spiritual connection developed during Ramadan; and Charitable Giving – Making charity (sadaqah) a regular habit ensures that the spirit of generosity does not fade away after Ramadan.

Scholars also advice moral accountability– Holding oneself accountable for ethical behavior, whether in business, family, or social interactions, sustains the high moral standards encouraged during the holy month. Community Involvement – Engaging in community service and supporting initiatives that combat corruption and social injustice keeps the positive impact of Ramadan alive; and Mindful Reflection – Regular self-assessment and seeking guidance from religious scholars can help individuals stay on track.

Shekh Hassan Othman Ngwali- Chief Kadhi of Zanzibar says Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of the virtues of discipline, kindness, and spiritual devotion.

He says that the challenge for Muslims is not just to observe these values for a month but to make them an integral part of their lives, “By doing so, individuals and communities can transform the temporary spiritual high of Ramadan into a lifelong commitment to righteousness and ethical living.”