Festival of Ramadan has come up for you to give a chance of getting Allah’s blessings. All the people following Islam religion feel excited at the arrival of the month of Ramadan. Initiation of Ramadan begins at the sighting of Moon. In 2014, Ramadan will commence from June 29 (subject to change as per sighting of the moon). The month of Ramadan is counted amongst the most holy months in Islam. The word Ramadan is taken from an Arabic word called Ar-Ramad that means 'extremely thirsty'. Let's take a look at the exact meaning of the month of Ramadan and its importance.
Pray for those who are facing troubles and for the peace in world: Maulana Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, Chief Imam- All India Imam Organisation
“Firstly, I would greet all of you a happy Ramadan. The month of Ramadan is the most auspicious of all the 12 Islamic months, as the Holy Quran was revealed in this month. This is the month of heightened worship and to please Allah by firm devotion. Try to avoid any ill acts and walk on the path of truthfulness and worshiping. Fasting is counted amongst Allah’s favorite acts. Follow all the rituals of Ramadan with dedication and help the needy ones to seek blessings. During this Ramadan, pray for those who are facing troubles and for the peace in world. Share the feeling of brotherhood with all and stay together.“
Let’s explore more about the month of Ramadan and other facts related to it:
Importance Of Ramadan Month
Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic Calendar. This month is not only dedicated to fasting, rather it has many more facts associated with it that makes it important for Muslims. The month of Ramadan comprises of fasting and worshiping. Ramadan holds immense importance due to the reason that the Holy Quran (holy book of Muslims) was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Ramadan is the time, when it is believed that Allah open doors of heaven. It is said that Satan (devil in Islam) is kept in chains for the whole month. Hence, during this time period all the Muslims practice deep devotion and dedication and seek Allah's blessings to get rid of the sins committed.
Rituals Followed During Ramadan
The holy book of Muslims, ‘Quran’ is recited during the month of Ramadan, by all the devotees. It is said that everyone should complete the recitation of holy Quran in the month of Ramadan. Muslim males go to Mosques for the recitation of holy Quran called 'Tarawih', while females recite the holy book at home.
Fasting is also an important part of the month of Ramadan. Fasting is not only related to restraining yourself from eating or drinking, rather, it is a way when the patience of oneself is tested. As per the fasting rituals, for the rest of the day he/she should not intake anything. Prayers are offered five times a day and recitation of holy Quran is done.
The observer should consume water or food before sunrise (Suhoor) and then a complete diet is taken after sunset (Iftaar). It is said that breaking the fast with dates fruit holds an immense importance. Let's take a look at the importance of dates to break the fast.
Importance Of Eating Dates
It is recommended to break a fast by eating dates. There are two main reasons associated with this fact. Firstly, it is believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to break fast by eating dates. Secondly, when a person keeps a fast for the whole day, he/she may face some health issues; hence, dates are considered to be the ones that helps in fighting with the diseases and helps in digestion of food.
Celebrations At Commencement Of Ramadan
When Ramadan commences, people could be seen indulged in preparation for the first fast. Markets could be seen decorated & full of sweets and other items that give the feeling of arrival of Ramadan. Whether it’s a child or someone elder, everyone keeps fast to get rid of sins and please Allah.
Celebrations At Ending Of Ramadan
After keeping a fast of 30 days and following all the rules and regulations of Ramadan, Muslim devotees celebrate the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr. The celebrations last for a span of three days. India is the land where any festival is not only limited to a certain community or religion, rather it is celebrated by one and all. This true feeling of celebrations can be noticed in India only.
So, please Allah on this Ramadan and stay away from evil acts and committing sins.
Wish you all a blessed Ramadan in 2014!