Everything you need to know about the Holy Month of Ramadan
Ramadan entitled as the Ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The term Ramadan literally means the intense heat of the sun in Arabic. It was recognized as a Holiest Month for Muslims after the Quran was discovered to the Prophet Muhammad on the holy event known as Laylat al-Qadr, commonly deciphered as “the Night of Power. The completion of Ramadan is noticeable on the day of Eid ul-Fitr, which happens either 29 or 30 days after the beginning of this holy month. On Eid ul-Fitr, People do morning prayers which are followed by grand feasting and celebration with family and friends. In general, Ramadan is practiced to purify oneself from the sins, which are counter to Islam. By getting rid of materialistic desires, one is able to devote his mind and soul in the service of God.
But what Ramadan actually means, exactly? And how can we make sure that we don’t unintentionally upset our Muslim friends during Ramadan celebrations?
Well don’t worry we have got you everything you need to know about Ramadan.
Why is Muslims Ramadan is the holiest month of the year. It is believed that it was during this month Allah revealed the initial verses of Quran, Islam’s sacred manuscript to Prophet Mohammad on the night which is popularly known as “The Night of Power”.
The Prophet Mohammad said, “When the month of Ramadan begins, the heaven opens its door and the door of hell gets closed chaining all the evils in it.”In the duration of this entire month, Muslims observe fast “Roja” every day from dawn to dusk. This meant to be the time of spiritual e, a deep contemplation of one’s connection with the Almighty. Ramadan also encourage upon the charity and the intense study of Quran.
If you think Ramadan is serious and boring affair, then you are wrong. There is more to this holy festival. Ramadan is a time of celebration and joy, to be spent with your family and friends. People celebrate the end of Ramadan month with the three day grand festival called as Eid al-Fitr. It’s the biggest festival of Muslim where everyone come together for grand meals with friends and loved ones, give gifts and have a wonderful time. Regardless of the hard and strict fasting for a whole month, Muslims actually look forward to Ramadan and feel sad when it’s over.
What are the daily fasting requirements?
Observing Fast during Ramadan is one five rituals of Islam one needs to follow, along with devotion to God, prayer, charity, and a pilgrimage to Mecca Medina. All Muslims had to follow these duties every year, although there are special relaxation for those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, traveling and those who are underage and senior citizens.
The main aim of fasting is to remind you of your humanly dependency on God for sustenance. If you’ll know what it feel like to be hungry and thirsty so you’ll be able to empathies with the poor and needy people.
It also ensures that you stay focused and fully devoted to God rather distracting by worldly needs. One needs to refrain from eating food, drinking, smoking and engaging in sexual activity.
Significance of Charity
Charity is the most integral part of Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslim communities work together to raise money for the one who need it, they donate clothes, food, and other essential to the poors. Holding huge dinners for common public is also a part of charity. Observing fast accentuate altruism and this experience of hunger nurture in empathy with the hungry.
Eid ul Fitr
The conclusion of Ramadan is marked by Eid-al-Fitr, a huge festival to celebrate the end of the fasting. The festivity begins as soon as the new moon is sighted in the sky. They celebrate this day by wearing brand new cloths; attend large processions, exchange gifts and have large meals. It is must to contribute a specific amount to charity so that the needy people can also enjoy this festival.
Eid ul Fitr is also measured as occasion of worship. Muslims praise Allah (God) for giving them strength and opportunity to get through the month, and ask for mercy for the sins they’ve committed.