Understanding Ramadan: A Month of Reflection, Discipline, and Community

Ramadan is a tradition that Muslims celebrate all over the world. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a month of fasting(sawm), communal prayer (salah), reflection and community. Since Ramadan follows the Islamic calendar, the traditional date is everchanging. It is also the month in which the Quran is believed to have been revealed by the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The tradition of Ramadan is known as one of the five pillars of Islam and lasts 29 to 30 days. From dawn to sunset, Muslims fast by avoiding food, drinks, and other needs. But Ramadan is about much more than meets the eye. 

Fasting in Ramadan is obligatory for all the adult muslims who are ill, traveling, elderly, breastfeeding, pregnant, or menstruating.  It teaches self discipline, gratitude, empathy, and spiritual growth. You learn to control your desires and appreciate the everyday blessings you have. With no food or water from dawn to sunset you can understand and put yourself in the shoes of others who are facing hunger today. By doing this Muslims believe that they strengthen their connection to God. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar and the predawn meal is called suhur.

Ramadan is also the time for more praying, reading and understanding the Quran (Holy book of Islam), charity work and giving back, increased bonding. Many communities around the world host food drives to give out to those in need. This causes them to care for others and grow more spiritually. 

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitir which is a holiday where Muslims are marked by prayer, gratitude, and reunite with their loved ones. During this month its important to see it can bring us reflection and compassion and can be a powerful way to see how faith can show discipline and connection with communities around the world.