Between the Lions

     Marking the ninth month on the Muslim calendar, Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is celebrated by over 1.6 billion Muslims. According to the appearance of a new moon, the start and end of Ramadan is identified and this year, fasting started on May 5. During this 30 day time period, Muslims fast every day from dawn (sunrise) to sunset (about 4:30ish am - 8:30ish pm - the timing varies each day).

     In the Islamic faith, this month is considered and holy month because this was the time period in which Allah(swt) - God - revealed the Quran (Islam’s holy book) to Prophet Muhammad. This is a time in which they embrace their spiritual discipline by performing salat (praying), reading the Quran, fasting, giving charity, and asking for forgiveness - all with the right intentions. Muslims must practice self-restraint of any and all impure thoughts, words, and actions. It helps them realize the feeling of hunger and show compassion towards the poor and needy who are less fortunate.

     A usual day of fasting begins with a feast before the fajr prayer adhan at around 4:30 a.m., followed by a whole day of fasting. Iftar, the meal in which the fast is broken (sunset 8:30 pm), is traditionally broken with dates because Prophet Muhammad did the same, and any teaching of the Prophet are advised to be followed. Able-bodied adult and older children are obligated to fast. Pregnant women, smaller children, the weak, travelers on long journeys, and the mentally ill are exempted from fasting. Things that could possibly break one's fast are obviously eating, drinking (any liquid - including water), vomiting, and other understandable circumstances.

     Indicating the end of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, the “Feast of Fast-Breaking” which is one of the two major Islamic holidays, the other one being Eid al-Adha which marks the end of hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). Eid al-Fitr is an elaborate holiday which is celebrated with new cloths, special dishes, gifts, and family gatherings. On this day, Muslims typically go to the Masjid to perform Salat al-Eid and enjoy time with friends and family, creating a truly wonderful memories. In 2019, the last day of fasting is Monday, June 3, and therefore, June 4 being Eid al-Fitr. The dates of Ramadan change every year based on the phrases of the moon, typically moving back 11 days each year. Many Muslims are counting down the days left, but during this month, they focus on their relationship with God and pray for forgiveness of any and all sins. Wish your Muslim friends “Happy Ramadan!” and by June 4, “Happy Eid!” or traditionally, “Eid Mubarak!”

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