Muslims all across the world mark Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, as a time for fasting, prayer, introspection, and community. The Prophet Muhammad is said to have received the first verses of the Quran during this month.
Muslims fast from dawn until dusk throughout Ramadan in order to refrain from consuming food, liquids, tobacco, and other necessities. This fasting period is designed to cleanse the soul, bolster faith, and foster thankfulness for life’s blessings. Throughout Ramadan, Muslims also perform additional prayers, read from the Quran, and give to charity.
The end of Ramadan is marked by a celebration called Eid al-Fitr, which includes special prayers, feasting, and the exchange of gifts. Ramdan is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam, along with the declaration of faith, prayer, giving to charity, and pilgrimage to Mecca.
History of Ramadan
Ramadan has been observed by Muslims for more than 14 centuries. It is believed to have started in the year 610 CE when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad while he was in meditation in a cave near Mecca, which is located in modern-day Saudi Arabia.
The month of Ramadan was established as a period for spiritual meditation and devotion to God. The revelation of the Quran marked the beginning of Muhammad’s ministry as a prophet of God. Muslims have observed the Ramdan fast ever since it was established in the second year following the Prophet Muhammad’s migration to Medina.
Ramadan has developed into a significant aspect of Islamic tradition and culture over the years, with distinctive customs and practices that differ among various Muslim communities worldwide. Notwithstanding these variations, the fundamental Ramdan customs—including fasting from sunrise to sunset, greater prayer and devotion, and deeds of kindness and giving towards others—remain the same.
Today, Ramadan is observed by more than 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide, making it one of the most widely observed religious practices in the world.
Why it is celebrated?
Ramadan is observed by Muslims as a month of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion to God. It is believed to be the month in which the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, and it is considered a time of increased spiritual blessings and rewards for acts of worship.
One of the Five Pillars of Islam, the five fundamental tenets that form the foundation of the religion, is fasting during Ramadan. It is believed that fasting is a form of religion that purifies the soul, develops gratitude and empathy, and builds self-control and discipline.
Muslims observe Ramadan by fasting, praying more frequently, reading the Quran, and performing charitable deeds. Muslims use this time to reflect on their goals and priorities in life as well as to strengthen their bonds with God and their community. Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a holiday of breaking the fast and expressing thankfulness for the bounties of the month, at the conclusion of Ramadan.
