Ramadan is a special month in the Islamic calendar for Muslims worldwide.
During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. They also focus on prayer, charity, and asking for forgiveness from Allah.
Ramadan is also significant as it marks when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
The common question is, why is Ramadan celebrated?
The answer is that Ramadan is not just about fasting during daylight hours.
It’s a time for spiritual growth and self-improvement. Muslims spend Ramadan strengthening their faith and becoming closer to Allah.
They also increase their charitable acts and work on building stronger community bonds.
The month encourages reflection on one’s actions and setting goals for personal development.
The Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is celebrated for several important reasons.
Religious Significance
In the month of Ramadan, the first revelation of the Quran was sent to Prophet Muhammad.
Muslims believe that during this month, the holy book was sent down from heaven to guide humanity.
This event marks the beginning of Islam and is considered a time of great spiritual importance.
The Quran mentions Ramadan in the following way:
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.” [Quran, 2:185]
Spiritual Reflection
During Ramadan, Muslims dedicate much of their time to Ibadah. They try to renew their focus on religious life and its practical application in daily life.
Ramadan becomes an opportunity for introspection, self-improvement, and strengthening one’s relationship with Allah.
Many Muslims use this time to reflect on their actions, seek forgiveness, and set goals for personal growth.
Fasting and Self-Discipline
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It teaches self-discipline and helps Muslims empathise with the less fortunate.
From Fajr to Maghrib, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs.
This practice purifies the soul and increases spiritual connection and self-control.
Community and Charity
Muslims try to gather to break their fast and perform special prayers. The Spirit of togetherness is evident in the nightly Iftar meals and during Taraveeh.
It’s also a time for increased charitable giving and helping those in need, reinforcing the values of compassion and generosity.
Gratitude and Blessings
Muslims believe that good deeds performed during Ramadan are multiplied in reward. It’s seen as a blessed month where one can seek forgiveness.
Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
Historical Context of Ramadan
The significance of Ramadan dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century.
The Quran was believed to be revealed during this month, making it a time of great importance for Muslims.
Understanding this historical context helps to appreciate the depth and reverence associated with Ramadan.
Specific Practices During Ramadan
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in various practices to deepen their faith and connection to Allah. These include:
- Increased prayer, particularly the nightly prayer Taraweeh
- Special night prayer
- Reading and reciting the Quran
- Engaging in acts of charity and kindness
- Laylat al Qadr falls on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan
Significance of Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power)
Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, is believed to occur during the last ten days of Ramadan.
Muslims believe that prayers made on this night are especially powerful.
The Quranic verses specifically about Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree) are found in Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97) of the Quran. Here are the verses:
إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ
وَمَا أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ
لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ
تَنَزَّلُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ وَالرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ
سَلَامٌ هِيَ حَتَّىٰ مَطْلَعِ الْفَجْرِ
Translation:
Indeed, We sent it [the Quran] down during the Night of Decree.
And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.
The angels and the Spirit descend therein with permission from their Lord for every matter.
Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.
These verses highlight the significance of Laylat al-Qadr. The surah describes this night as better than a thousand months, indicating its immense spiritual value.
It also mentions the descent of angels and the Spirit (commonly interpreted as referring to the angel Gabriel) during this night.
Ramadan – A Month of Special Importance
Muslims around the world wait for Ramadan throughout the year. It is a month when Muslims devotedly fast and increase their worship.
By observing Ramadan, Muslims aim to become better individuals, strengthen their faith, and renew their commitment to their religion and community.
This holy month is not just about fasting; it is a time to renew and strengthen faith in Allah.
