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What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it is regarded as one of the holiest months for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for Muslims to fast, pray, contemplate, and gather as a community. Ramadan commemorates the month during which Islam’s holy book, the Quran, is said to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

The main characteristics of Ramadan include:

1- Fasting (Sawm): Observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset throughout the month of Ramadan. This includes refraining from eating or drinking, including water, as well as quitting smoking and engaging in sinful activity. Each day, the fast is broken with a meal known as iftar, which is commonly started with dates and followed by a bigger feast.

2-Prayer (Salat): During Ramadan, Muslims intensify their prayers and spiritual activities. The mosque holds special midnight prayers known as Tarawih, during which the memorization of the Quran is stressed.

3-Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Ramadan places a high value on charitable activities. Muslims are encouraged to practice acts of kindness, generosity, and charity. Many Muslims pay their mandatory annual almsgiving, known as Zakat, during this month.

4-Ramadan is seen as a season of self-reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual development. It is an opportunity for Muslims to improve their relationship with God, develop empathy for the less fortunate, and foster a spirit of thankfulness.

5-Community and Family: Many people break their fast (iftar) with family and friends. Mosques and community institutions also host communal iftar dinners. The month is about strengthening communal relationships and spending quality time with loved ones.

6-The Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr): is considered the holiest night of the year and occurs during the last 10 days of Ramadan. It is thought to be the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Muslims seek spiritual enlightenment and engage in fervent prayer and worship on this night.

Ramadan finishes with the Eid al-Fitr festival, which commemorates the conclusion of fasting and is a time of joy, feasting, and thankfulness. Muslims gather to celebrate with special prayers, lavish dinners, and the sharing of gifts.

It’s worth noting that not all Muslims are obligated to fast during Ramadan. Exemptions are granted to minors, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, tourists, and those with medical issues. Fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s Five Pillars, symbolizing essential acts of prayer and submission to God.

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