Good deed of the day: Be honest, really honest

A month of good deeds

By time, Verily Man is in loss. Except such as have Faith, and do good deeds, and (join together) in the mutual enjoining of Truth, and of Patience and Constancy. (Sura Al Asr 103:1-3)

One of the seven pillars of Islam is Zakat, an act of financial charity, which is obligatory for those who have excess wealth. However, giving Zakat is not the only way to bless those around you during the Holy Month, and here we highlight other charitable acts that can be performed in the name of Allah and as a blessing on both the giver and the recipient.

Good deed of the day: Be honest, really honest
And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it] (2:42) Ramadan is a great time to rid ourselves of “half-truths” and omissions. Have the faith and confidence to be 100 per cent truthful at all times. It is amazing how this habit will change the way you live, knowing that nothing can be concealed through cleverly chosen words. It is humbling to admit to your boss that you are late because you overslept, not because there was traffic on Sultan Qaboos Highway, and you might think twice about leaving the family at home waiting while you have that second cup of coffee after Isha prayers, if you know that when they ask, you will have to tell them exactly why you were late. It is difficult and transformative, and the Holy Month is a great time to build this habit.