The Holy Month of Ramadan
On a clear night in the month of Shaban, a bright white crescent rises, bringing with it the date of the most important month in the life of any Muslim, the month of Ramadan.
A month whose fame preceded it and went beyond the world of Muslims, as it became known to the cultures of the entire world. It is a month that every Muslim waits and looks forward to.
Now, while awaiting the rise of the crescent moon, every Muslim stands on the cusp of the most spiritual month of the year and brings them closer to God.
What makes the month of Ramadan special?
The month of Ramadan holds a special place in the heart of every Muslim because it is the month of fasting, which is considered one of the pillars of Islam, during which Muslims abstain from food and drink and also from a group of prohibitions that invalidate fasting from dawn until sunset. This period tests the patience and perseverance of every Muslim; devoted to worship in homes and mosques that are permeated by the scents of musk, roses, amber, and oud, adding a special fragrance that increases the feeling of tranquility and reassurance of the heart.
How does a Muslim's day begin in the month of Ramadan?
Every Muslim wakes up on the morning of Ramadan to start his pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) early in preparation for a day of worship and prayer. He goes to perform the dawn prayer (Fajr) with his Muslim brothers in the mosque, which is filled with the energy of faith and the fragrance of incense. After filling his chest with both, he returns to his home to continue his sleep, thus preparing to go to work when he wakes up, seeking his livelihood.
When is a Muslim allowed to eat during Ramadan?
Muslims gather to have “Iftar” at the dining table decorated with the most delicious food, surrounded by the strong aroma of incense which lives in the memory of every follower of Islam, opening both their hearts and appetites, to begin eating at the call of the dusk prayer (Maghrib).
What do Muslims do after Iftar?
After a long-awaited meal, Muslims begin to pray the Maghrib prayer in the mosque, then return to their homes to continue their meal and read whatever portion of the Holy Qur’an they can, spending time with their family members and friends, strengthening bonds, which is another virtue of this holy month, as it brings people together on both a familial and societal level. The atmosphere is scented with sandalwood, vanilla, oud, and perhaps frankincense as well.
Conclusion
The month of Ramadan is one of the most important periods in the life of every Muslim. It is a month in which Muslims draw closer to God by fulfilling their duties and abstaining from sins. It's a month that lives in our hearts and minds throughout the year, whether that is when gathering at the dining table, when helping someone in need, or even with the fragrant smell of incense that fills the air.
May the Holy Month of Ramadan be full of obedience, fasting, charity and forgiveness for you.
Therefore, from the bottom of our hearts, Ramadan Kareem.