Ramadan
The Catalyst / Courtesy of the University of San Diego
The ninth and holy month of the Islamic calender is Ramadan, which is observed by about 1.8 billion people annually.
Ramadan, the holy month for Muslims worldwide, begins on March 23. This month is the most important in the Islamic religion for many reasons and Muslims worldwide use this time to grow closer to their faith.
Muslims use the month of Ramadan to reflect on their relationship with God and typically become closer to God in many ways. Apart from the daily five prayers year round, during Ramadan, there are voluntary additional special prayers which is one of the many ways people grow closer to God. This time is also very important to focus on the five pillars of Islam, one of which is done during the month of Ramadan is fasting.
The most important part of Ramadan is fasting. Muslims will fast from sunrise to sunset in the month of Ramadan, meaning they do not consume food or drinks, including water, for the time the sun is up. The reason behind this is to become closer to God as well. Fasting is one of the ways Muslims can be grateful for everything God gives them, when having to go between 16-17 hours without water or food helps make people more compassionate.
Another purpose of fasting is to help break some of the bad habits that people may feel stuck or attached to. Going for the whole day without something important such as food and water for a whole month helps Muslims realize that if they can go long periods without something important, they can cut out other bad habits from their life. Fasting also helps practice self-control. This in turn makes Muslims closer to God and have a more positive outlook on life. This is also a way to sympathize with those who may not have food or water in their daily lives and serves as a reminder to not take things for granted and always thank God.
It may be difficult in the first week but after that, it grows easier and makes Muslims that realize giving up bad habits can be easier than one realizes if one puts in the effort. Those who do not celebrate Ramadan should be sure to wish their Muslim friends a Happy Ramadan and wish them luck and peace during this month of fasting and reflection.
