All About Ramadan | Islam | Kashmiri Traditions | Sage’s Vault

Ramzaan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and it is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, spiritual reflection, and prayer. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It is customary for Muslims to have a pre-dawn meal called “suhoor” before beginning their daily fast. The fast is broken at sunset with dates and water, in accordance with the Sunnahh, which is the practice of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, so the start and end of Ramadan vary each year.

The month of Ramzaan is believed by the Muslims to be the month in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Ramzaan is also a time for spiritual reflection and increased prayer, with many Muslims spending extra time in worship and attending nightly prayers at the mosque, with many Muslims reciting the entire Quran during the month. The month of Ramadan is also a time of increased charitable giving, with many Muslims giving zakat (charity) to the less fortunate. The fast in Ramadan is not just from food and drink, but also from sexual relations and other physical pleasures during the daylight hours. It is a time to reflect on our actions and strive to do better, to be more compassionate, and to spread kindness and love to those around us. It is about abstaining from negative thoughts, words, and actions, and striving to do good deeds.

It is believed that the gates of heaven are open during Ramadan, and the gates of hell are closed, with the devil chained up, making it easier to do good deeds. In some Muslim-majority countries, the entire month of Ramzaan is a public holiday, with businesses and schools closing early or entirely. The last ten days of Ramadan are considered especially holy, with the Night of Power falling during this time, and many Muslims spend this period in increased prayer and reflection. The end of Ramzaan is marked by the celebration of Eid, a joyous festival that includes feasting, gift-giving, and social gatherings with family and friends.

The fast in Ramadan is not required for children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, and those who are ill or traveling.

God says in the Quran, “O you who believe, fasting is decreed upon you, as it was decreed upon those before you, that you may become righteous”.

So, are you fasting yet?

Liked it? Take a second to support us on Patreon!