Ramadan Mubarak
The holy month of Ramadan is about to dawn in the entire Muslim world. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is the Islamic month of fasting, in which Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and sensual activities from dawn until sunset. Pertinently, Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. More than any other month, Ramadan is an occasion that transcends the distinctions and divisions in our society. The rhythm of Ramadan is different to any other month of the year.
As a matter of fact, fasting is intended to teach Muslims about patience, humility and spirituality and is a time for Muslims to fast for the sake of Allah and to offer more prayer than usual. During Ramadan, Muslims ask forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance and help in refraining from everyday evils and vices and try to purify themselves through self-restraint and good deeds. As compared to the solar calendar, the dates of Ramadan vary, moving backwards about ten days each year depending on the moon. Pertinently, Ramadan was the month in which the first verses of the holy Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The rewards are significant. For those fasting because of faith, Ramadan is the holiest month in the Muslim calendar, a month of prayer, reflection and the chance to do good works. For those fasting for other reasons, the benefits to health and discipline, and the chance to enjoy fellowship are good recompense. For those for whom this is their first Ramadan of fasting whether because they are converts, are now old enough or have decided to express their devotion some trepidation is normal. It is, after all, a whole month of going without food or water during daylight. Ramadan brings a renewed spirit of struggle against the flesh and the nafs, against the pleasures of unchecked consumption and mindless gratification. Most of all, it brings an opportunity to reload our spiritual batteries, refresh our intentions and re-evaluate ourselves.
This month is all about sharing. Ramadan is the biggest act of mass religious observance in the world. From this week, more than a billion people will take part in the same ritual. It is a profoundly powerful demonstration not merely of the brotherhood of Islam, but of what connects all of us as people, whether Muslims or not. Taking a moment to consider the hardship of others is beneficial for all. The holy month can bring rewards regardless of religion.
