This week marked the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan in this country where we practice our Christian faith. The 30 day period commenced after the sighting of the new moon. Ramadan means rising at dawn, which could be as early as 4.00 am – to eat and not eating again until about past 6.00 pm, when the sun sets.
Ramadan is a time of increased piety and prayer. During sunlight hours, observant Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and sexual relations. Muslims are also called to curb gossip and backbiting.
It is in this month that Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad started receiving revelations from Allah, which are recorded in the Qur’an.
Ramadan also brings families together, praying and eating together. During this period many families prepare sunset meals each night. Some donate money and time to prepare these meals. This is also a period of rejuvenation in Muslim faith.
“It’s a month where you fight your inner desires and you work to create a better you,’’ one Muslim commented. “It’s a month of the Qur’an,’’ he said. “It’s also known as a month of generosity.’’ The 30-day fast brings Muslims together and inspires them in the spirit of sharing. Ramadan is also a time of charity in which Muslims give to the poor, he said.
Well, as our Muslim brethren fast during this Holy month, let us give respect by refraining from eating or drinking in public during the fasting period and if possible join them in their fast, which will also give us an opportunity, if we have forgotten to abstain from - during our own season of Lent this year.
Ramadan Kareem to our fellow Muslim Brethren.
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