Winter is the Spring of the Believer
As human beings, we are always searching for what lies on the other side. In the heat of summer, we long for the cool relief of winter, yet as soon as the cold settles in, we yearn again for warmth. The alternation of seasons—like the alternation of day and night—is among the signs of Allah. Through every change, He teaches us lessons, and winter, with its cold, snow, and rain, carries reminders that invite us to reflect and return to Him.
Umar ibn al-Khattab once referred to winter as a “cool spoil,” comparing it to the spoils of war that come with great reward and minimal effort. He meant that this season offers abundant opportunities to earn rewards without the strenuous exertion found in other seasons.
Allah created the day for striving—to work, to seek provision, to move across the earth, and to build a balanced success in this world and the next. And He created the night as a time of peace, tranquility, and stillness. The Quran describes our homes in the same way: places to which we return for comfort and rest. Our spouses and families are meant to be among our greatest sources of serenity.
Yet in our modern age, this tranquility has been disrupted. The night—once a space for reconnection—has been overtaken by screens, gaming, and distractions that keep us awake long past what is natural or healthy. Winter becomes a chance to correct this, to be more present in our homes, marriages, families, and communities.
Winter invites reflection, reconnection with Allah, and inner renewal. Its long nights make worship easier, yet Fajr becomes more challenging; leaving the warmth of our blankets feels heavier, and making wudu with cold water requires determination. But the Prophet ﷺ taught that completing wudu when it is difficult erases sins and elevates ranks, and that walking often to the masjid multiplies one’s reward.
“Shall I guide you to what erases sins and elevates ranks? Perfecting ablution despite hardships, taking many steps to the mosques, and waiting for one prayer after another—this is true perseverance” (Sahih Muslim).
Winter also reminds us to think beyond ourselves. Some households cannot afford to turn on the heat. Some families lack warm meals. And how often do we remember our brothers and sisters in Gaza and Sudan—facing harsh winds without shelter, children exposed to freezing temperatures, and families struggling for basic warmth?
“Whoever relieves a believer of distress, Allah will relieve him of distress on the Day of Resurrection. And whoever fulfills his brother’s needs, Allah will fulfill his needs” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim).As we enjoy heated homes, warm food, and comfortable clothing, gratitude should move us to compassion, prayer, and advocacy. May this season bring us nearer to Allah, to our loved ones, and to our best selves. May Allah allow us to benefit from every moment of this winter and use it in ways that please Him.
By Imam Basheer Abdeen