Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sinful behavior. The fast is a means of purifying the body and soul, fostering empathy for the less fortunate, and strengthening one's relationship with Allah (God). Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, community, charity, and self-discipline. Key Aspects of Ramadan: Fasting (Sawm): The core practice of Ramadan is fasting, where Muslims abstain from food and drink during daylight hours. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, and it begins again at dawn with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor. Prayer and Worship: Muslims engage in extra prayers during Ramadan, particularly the Taraweeh prayers at night. Many also read or recite the Quran during the month. Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Giving to those in need is a major aspect of Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to pay Zakat (a mandatory form of charity) and make voluntary donations (Sadaqah) to help the poor. Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr): This special night is believed to occur in the last ten days of Ramadan and is considered the night when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is a time of heightened prayer and reflection. Eid al-Fitr: Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive day of gratitude, community prayers, feasting, and giving thanks for the strength to complete the fast.