Ramadan
By Sardar Anees Ahmad
Waterloo, New York

Many readers are aware that Ramadan has begun. Some are also aware of what fasting during Ramadan entails. However, some also question, “Can a 1400 year old practice have relevance today?”

For Muslims, Ramadan marks the beginning of the revelation of the Holy Quran. The Arabic word "Ramadan" comes from the root "Ramada," meaning: to become hot as to induce thirst; to burn; to cause warmth. Ramadan is thus named as fasting during this month physically causes thirst, it is designed as a means of burning away ones sins, and because observing proper fasting creates the necessary warmth of love in man for his Maker. Consequently, it is observance of Quranic teachings while fasting that brings about this transformation. From dawn till dusk, able Muslims abstain from all food and drink. But enduring physical discomforts is not the main objective of fasting. Rather, by focus more on abstaining from unrighteous behavior, as well as from practices permissible in everyday life, Islam seeks to refine a Muslim's character, which he observes even after Ramadan ends. One personally shares in the hunger, meager circumstances, and discomforts that are unfortunately a mainstay of the less fortunate sections of society. A Muslim wakes up many hours before dawn for prayer, self-assessment, and communion with God. The Quran is also studied much more during Ramadan. All efforts culminate in the “Night of Decree,” in the last 10 days of Ramadan, in which one can be blessed beyond measure.

Now, Islam emphasizes the care of the destitute so much that alms giving constitute one of the 5 Pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims magnify these efforts, following Prophet Muhammad’s example. Spending to aid the poor was his daily practice. During Ramadan, however, his efforts multiplied ten-fold. Ultimately Ramadan encourages a Muslim to not only better himself spiritually, but to develop a greater love for mankind.