Muslims consider the month of Ramadan particularly blessed because it was during this month, on the night of power, that is, on Laylat al-Qadr, the first revelation was sent to Prophet Muhammed, sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wa alihi wa sallam. In Surah al-Baqara, ayah 183, Allah says:
“O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint”.
Further on, in verse 185 of the same Surah, Allah says:
“Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong)”.
Special prayers are performed during the month of Ramadan to seek forgiveness and barakah from the Divine and to express our utmost submission Allah.
The word used in Qur’an for the practice of fasting in Ramadan is ‘sawm’ which means ‘to abstain’. During this month, Muslims fast by abstaining from food and drink as well as unethical behavior from dawn until dusk. Though physically challenging, it serves as a pathway to strengthening our relationship with ourselves and with Allah through the practice of self-control and piety.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast to achieve taqwa, that is, a state of God-consciousness and nobility in character. Although fasting means not eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, many traditions of the Prophet emphasise the importance of ethical behaviour and charitable deeds for the benefit of others.
However, these reflections and actions should not be confined to the month of Ramadan but should form part of one’s daily life. Ramadan can also be a turning point in our life if we reflect on our own conduct and striking a balance between the material life and spiritual life.
The month of Ramadan culminates with the celebration of the 'Eid ul-Fitr which particularly reminds us that Islam teaches generosity, compassion and sharing with those most in need. The 'Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of this significant month and invites us to continue our spiritual quest, our supplications and acts of submission to Allah.