RAMADAN

A blessed month for fasting to enrich our souls

Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or traveling may substitute the same number of other days. God wishes for you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations, and to glorify God for guiding you, and to express your appreciation. (2:185)

Ramadan is the ninth lunar month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims all over the world fast every day of this month from dawn to the sunset. During fasting, they abstain from eating, drinking and sexual encounter as ordained by God in the Quran:

…You may eat and drink until the white thread of light becomes distinguishable from the dark thread of night at dawn. Then, you shall fast until sunset. Sexual intercourse is prohibited if you decide to retreat to the masjid (during the last ten days of Ramadan). These are God’s laws; you shall not transgress them. God thus clarifies His revelations for the people, that they may attain salvation. (2:187)

Fasting: Thirst and Hunger only?

Fasting is known to be beneficial to the health and provides a break in the cycle of rigid habits or overindulgence. However, in our emphasis on refraining from food, drink, and marital relations during

the daylight hours, we should not forget many other important as-pects of this sacred time. Perhaps, it would help us to remember not only the outward act of fasting, but also its underlying purpose:

O you who believe, fasting is de-creed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation. (2:183)

Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or travel-ing, an equal number of other days may be substituted. Those who can fast, but with great difficulty, may substitute feed-ing one poor person for each day of breaking the fast. If one volunteers (more righteous works), it is better. But fasting is the best for you, if you only knew. (2:184)

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