Ramadan : The month of Patience

Ramadan : The month of Patience

Ramadan is the holy month. All over the world, Muslims fast the whole month every day from early dawn till sunset. It begins from the sighting of the new crescent moon. During the fasting, muslims are not allowed to eat or drink anything. After sunset they break their fast and eat and drink. The main purpose of Fasting is to develop self discipline and piety within one self. That’s why Muslim have to abstain from gossiping, lies, obscenity ,and vulgarity. And all kinds of sins physically,mentally and spiritually.

Almighty God has mentioned, “ O you who believe ! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may obtain self restraint [Quran; Chapter 2, Verse 183]. The Holy Quran was also revealed Upon Prophet Muhammad in the month of Ramadan. “Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was sent down as a guide to mankind, also clear signs for guidance and judgment between right and wrong so every one of you who is present during that month should spend it fasting... [Quran Chap. 2- verse 185]. Fasting in Ramadan purifies the actions and the thoughts of the muslims. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “ He who doesn’t desist from obscene language and acting obscenely while fasting, Allah has no need that he does not eat or drink.” Fasting has many physical, moral and social benefits.

Fasting begins with the meal early dawn known as ‘suhoor’ and ends after sunset by breaking fast with dates and water which is known as ‘Iftaar’. Ramadan makes community friendship stronger. Muslims invite their relatives and friends for Iftar meals. Many muslims arrange an Iftar party at the mosque and share it with wider community members and feed the poor and needy people. All the muslims from the age of puberty who are physically and mentally well should observe fasting.

But sick travelers, pregnant women and nursing mothers may postpone it. The very old and permanently ill people are excused from fasting. They feed a poor person for every day of Ramadan. Fasting elevates a level of God consciousness and self discipline. Muslims focus on strengthening their personal relationship with the creator. This is the period of spiritual reflection through the extra prayer and recitation of the Holy Quran, fasting makes one aware of many bounties of Almighty God which we take for granted.The hunger and thirst remind a fasting person about poor and destitute so he may increase sympathy and generosity for the less fortunate people.

Ramadan ends by sighting a new crescent which is followed by the day of celebration known as ‘Eid Ul Fitr’. Muslims put on new dresses and go to the mosque early morning for congregational prayer, they meet and greet each other, share the sweets and wish good luck to one another. They thank Almighty God for granting this opportunity to purify their souls and character. Ramadan is the month of patience and purification.

~ Imam Faridbeg ~