What is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drinks, smoking, and other physical needs during daylight hours. The fast is broken each evening after sunset with an iftar meal, and the period of fasting ends after thirty days with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. 

The purpose of Ramadan is to develop self-discipline, self-control, and awareness of one’s relationship with God. The fast is intended to purify the soul, strengthen faith, and increase empathy for those in need. It is also a time of reflection, prayer, and devotion to God. 

Muslims wake up before dawn to have a meal before the start of the fast, which lasts from dawn until sunset. The meal is called suhoor, and it typically includes foods that provide energy to sustain the body throughout the day. Some of the most common suhoor foods include dates, boiled eggs, cheese, yogurt, and bread. 

During the day, Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual activity. They are also encouraged to avoid negative thoughts and actions, and to focus on prayer and good deeds. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar, which traditionally includes dates, water and a selection of dishes such as rice, meat and vegetables. 

Charitable acts such as feeding the poor and donating to charity are also encouraged during Ramadan. Ramadan is also a time of community and unity. In many Muslim countries, Ramadan is a public holiday. Schools and businesses may have reduced hours or be closed entirely, and many people take the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Muslims gather in mosques and homes to pray and break their fast together.  

Taraweeh 

One prayer performed during the month of Ramdan is the night prayer Taraweeh. This is a voluntary prayer that Muslims participate in after the obligatory Isha prayer. The name Taraweeh comes from the Arabic word “Taraweeh” which means to rest or relax. The prayer is typically performed in congregation in the mosque but can also be done at home and is a special feature of the holy month of Ramadan. 

Throughout Ramdan, Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds and draw closer to Allah through prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness. The Taraweeh prayer is an excellent way to accomplish both of these goals. It is also believed that performing Taraweeh holds great reward and blessings, as it is a way to seek forgiveness from Allah and seek the rewards of the hereafter. 

Taraweeh prayer is usually led by a qualified Imam who recites the Quran in an audible tone for the congregation to hear. The prayer consists of 11 or 20 Rak’ahs, depending on the Islamic school of thought. Each Rak’ah is composed of two units, and each unit contains a specific set of recitations and movements. 

The Taraweeh prayer is a beautiful way to connect with Allah and seek His forgiveness. It is a time for reflection, contemplation, and gratitude. It is a way to show one’s love for Allah and seek His mercy and blessings. During the night prayer, Muslims remember the sacrifices and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and seek to emulate his example. 

The Taraweeh prayer is also an excellent opportunity to bond with the local Muslim community. The prayer is performed in congregation in the mosque, bringing together brothers and sisters in Islam from all walks of life. This communal prayer strengthens the bonds of brotherhood/sisterhood and promotes a sense of unity among Muslims. 

Taraweeh is an essential aspect of the holy month of Ramadan and an excellent opportunity to draw closer to Allah, seek His blessings and gain His forgiveness. By performing Taraweeh, Muslims show their dedication to the faith and work to purify their hearts and minds. It is an opportunity to form lasting ties with the local Muslim community and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. May Allah bless all those who engage in Taraweeh prayer and accept their acts of worship during this blessed month of Ramadan. 

In conclusion, Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth, self-reflection and community. It is a month-long period of fasting that allows Muslims to purify their mind and body while strengthening their faith and relationship with Allah. Ramadan reminds us to be grateful for what we have, to help those in need and to appreciate the importance of family, friendship and community. 

Here are some interesting facts about Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic religion, that many people might not be aware of: 

• Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam - The Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental principles that every Muslim is expected to perform. These principles include declaration of faith, prayer, charity, pilgrimage to Mecca and fasting. Ramadan is a crucial pillar in Islam as it teaches Muslims how to self-discipline and to stay close to their religious beliefs. 
   
• The exact date of Ramadan changes every year - The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning it is based on the cycle of the moon. As a result, Ramadan does not fall on the same date every year in the Gregorian calendar. The start and end of Ramadan are determined by the sighting of the moon. 
   
• Fasting in Ramadan is only for those who are physically able - Fasting is one of the key observances during Ramadan, but it is not obligatory for those who are unable to fast. People who are exempted include pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, people who are travelling and those who have medical conditions that prevent them from fasting. 
   
• Ramadan is a month of increased spiritual activity - During Ramadan, Muslims engage in increased spiritual activities including reciting the Quran and engaging in more charitable activities such as feeding the poor, donating money to the needy and helping others. 
   
• The last ten nights of Ramadan are the most important - It is believed that the last ten nights of Ramadan are the most important, as it is during this time that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims engage in intense prayers and spiritual activities during these ten nights, including the Night of Power or Laylat al-Qadr. 
   
• The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a festival - The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a festive holiday called Eid al-Fitr. This is a time for family gatherings, feasting and gift-giving. It is a day of spreading love and happiness, with Muslims around the world sharing food and gifts with each other. 
   

Written by Zain Shabz, Global Majority Community Leader