Ramadan
Today, Friday, February 28th, marks the beginning of the most sacred month of Ramadan which will last until March 30th. It commemorates the apparition of the angel Gabriel to the Prophet Mohammed to reveal the Qur’an, Islam’s Holy Book. It is a faith of peace and submission to God. Islam from comes from the word salama or peace. One of the three Abrahamic religions (its followers are called Muslims), Islam believes that several Holy Books were handed down at various points in time over the course of 24 years during the month of Ramadan: the Gospels, the Qur’an and the Torah. Celebrated by Muslims around the world, it is one of the 5 pillars of Islam and is the month of peace, tranquility, goodness, forgiveness, mercy, revelation, and practicing self-restraint. The faithful are invited to self-reflect and renew their spiritual relationship with God. Families spend time together and with their community as they gather at the mosque to devote time to prayer and give to charity (zakat or donations to those less fortunate).
During this month, Muslims fast (including no water) from dawn to sunset. Excluded from the fast are those pregnant and nursing, those who are too young, the elderly, and the sick. The pre-dawn meal known as “suhur” or “suhoor” brings blessings, strength, (and hydration) for the day-long fast. Foods can include labneh, falafel, manakish (baked flatbread with za’atar spices), watermelon salad, and simple yogurt. Traditionally, after sunset, the fast is broken by eating 3 dates and drinking water, saying evening prayers, and then enjoying a meal known as “iftar”. Salads, maqluba (layered rice, meat, and vegetables), harira (lentil and chickpea soup), stewed lamb, chicken with chickpeas and rice, and rich desserts such as luqaimat (balls of fried dough soaked in honey) or baklava (filo dough layered with honey and nuts) are served. However, the types of foods served vary according to each culture’s regional traditions. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a three-day festival known as Eid al-Fitr, one of Islam’s major holidays.
From MAUSA.org (Muslim Aid USA):
Sawm: Sawm is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and the Arabic word for ‘fasting’. Fasting is a key part of Ramadan and requires all Muslims of able body and sound mind to fast during this holy month. Sawm takes place every day from dawn to sunset. The sunset and the start of Maghrib prayers mark the end of the day's fast. It is traditional to break the fast with dates, which is a Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW).
Zakat al-Fitr: Before the end of Ramadan and the special Eid al-Fitr prayer, all Muslims are required to make Zakat al-Fitr, a compulsory donation traditionally comprising a staple food item. Zakat-al-Fitr aims to help the less fortunate enjoy the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Some people choose to make their donation of Zakat-al-Fitr on Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), which is amongst the last 10 odd nights of Ramadan. The Night of Power is a special night during which charitable deeds are multiplied.
Eid al-Fitr: Eid al-Fitr, meaning ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’, is the important celebration that follows the month of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr does not begin until the sighting of the moon. It is a time of joy, a time of sharing smiles, giving gifts to children and spending time with loved ones.
Wishing all our families who celebrate this holiday a Ramadan Mubarak or a blessed Ramadan. May the blessings of peace and strength be with you throughout the month.
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