Historical and
Spiritual Significance
- Revelation of the Quran: Ramadan holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to be the month during which the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah (God) through the angel Gabriel. This event is commemorated on Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, often celebrated on the 27th night but its exact date is not fixed.
Fasting (Sawm)
- .Fasting from Dawn to Sunset: Adult Muslims are required to fast from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations. The fast is intended to bring the faithful closer to Allah and to remind them of the suffering of those less fortunate, fostering empathy and charity.
- .Suhoor and Iftar: The pre-dawn meal before the fast begins is called Suhoor, and the meal to break the fast after sunset is called Iftar. These meals are often shared with family and community members.
- Exemptions: There are exemptions for children, the elderly, the sick, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, or traveling, and others for whom fasting could be detrimental to health.
Prayer and Worship
- Increased Devotion: During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to increase their spiritual activities. This includes performing the nightly Taraweeh prayers, which are held in mosques and during which the entire Quran is recited over the month.
- Seeking Forgiveness: Muslims seek forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance and help in refraining from everyday evils, and strive to purify themselves through self-restraint and good deeds.
0 Comments