March 10 to April 9 marks Ramadan in the Islamic lunar Calender, The Fourways Review approached a mosque in our community asking them to explain to us the month of Ramadan. We spoke with the mosque Masjid Al Kawthar and they responded.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The month commemorates the revelation of the Quran(the central religious text of Islam, believed by Muslims to be a revelation from God. It is organised into 114 chapters which consist of individual verses) to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Muslims around the world observe it and the timing varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar.
Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon, which marks the start of the month and typically lasts 29 to 30 days. It is not particularly a celebration – it is a month where fasting, prayer, and community gatherings are observed to create a sense of togetherness and unity. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on reflection and working towards becoming a better Muslim by carrying the good that you do in Ramadan throughout the rest of the year. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, smoking and other physical needs during daylight hours.
Preparation for Ramadan involves mental and spiritual readiness, as well as physical preparations such as meal planning and adjusting daily routines to accommodate fasting. The beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon. Once the new moon is sighted after the evening prayer, it marks the start of the month of Ramadan and fasting begins the following day. This sighting traditionally relies on visual confirmation by trusted individuals or authorities and a unanimous decision is broadcast across the country.
Fasting during Ramadan is a form of worship and self-discipline aimed at achieving spiritual growth, empathy for the less fortunate and gratitude for blessings. Moreover, mosques in the locale usually hold extra programmes, including Quranic translation and recitation. Ramadan is also accompanied by the longer nightly prayer of Tharaweeh, which is an hour to two hours of prayer at night, where the recitation of the entire Quran is completed within the month. During the fast, there are restrictions on eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in intimate relations during daylight hours. Additionally, Muslims are encouraged to avoid negative behaviours such as gossiping, using unsavoury language, lying, and arguing.
Muslims fast during Ramadan as an act of worship and obedience to Allah. It is believed to purify the soul, soften the heart, increase spirituality, and strengthen the relationship with God. The duration of the fast varies depending on geographical location and time of year. In general, fasting is from dawn until sunset, ranging from approximately 12 to 16 hours, depending on the time of year and location.
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