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Ramadan رمضان is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and began on Monday, June 6th, 2016. Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims, and is considered to be one of the holiest times of the year. It was established as a holy month for Muslims after the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad on the occasion known as Laylat al-Qadr, frequently translated as “the Night of Power”. Every day during this month, Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast. During the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. As a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice, Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking. Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. Muslims are to make peace with those who have wronged them, strengthen ties with family and friends, do away with bad habits -essentially to clean up their lives, thoughts, and feelings. The Arabic word for “fasting” (sawm) literally means “to refrain” – and it means not only refraining from food and drink, but from evil actions, thoughts, and words.
During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must restrain themselves from looking at unlawful or inappropriate things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast. Therefore, fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the total commitment of the person’s body and soul to the spirit of the fast. Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint; a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus one’s self on the worship of God.
The start of the fast is called “Sehri” where Muslims get up before dawn to eat and drink. The opening of the fast is known as “Iftar” where a variety of dishes are usually prepared and the fast is opened with family and friends. The end of Ramadan is celebrated by a joyous occasion known as Eid-ul-Fitr.
Ramadan – رمضان
Fast – روزا
Quran – قرآن