| An essential part of the
Ramadan tradition is that you are not allowed to eat, drink,
smoke, or partake in sexual encounters during the day. Fasting
is practiced by all Muslims started around the age of 12.
Traditionally it takes place from sunrise to sunset, however,
children and the elderly are allowed a suhoor, which is a
light meal or snack before dawn. (Café and restaurants
in Muslim countries even stay open for this occasion!) The
evening meal is called the iftar, and it usually begins with
dates and sweet drinks for a much needed energy boost.
While fasting, Muslims are reminded of suffering for the
poor; it is an opportunity to practice self control and
cleanse the body and mind. Good is acquired through this
fast and can be destroyed by telling a lie, slander, denouncing
someone behind their back, making a false oath, or greed.
Of course these actions are always considered offensive,
but considered most offensive during this month.
There are some instances where fasting is not required
of Muslims. If someone is a diabetic, nursing or pregnant,
they are not required to fast. Travelers not staying in
a Muslim house more than ten days are also not obligated
to participate in the sawn (true Muslim word for fasting),
as well as those who are in battle, since nutrition is essential.
If someone knowingly breaks the fast, they must commence
fasting for the rest of the day on top of a kaffara (penalty)
of either fasting for 60 days, or feeding 60 people in need.
Muslims are obligated to make up for any missed days of
fasting, whether they forgot, are away, or are sick.
During the month it is common to go to Masjid (Mosque),
and spend several hours praying and studying the Qu'ran.
They also recite Taraweeh Prayer, Night Prayer, which is
two to three times longer than daily prayers.
On the 27th day of the month, Muslims celebrate Laylat-al-Qudr,
which means Night of Power. This is when it is believed
Muhammad first received the revelation of the Holy Qu'ran.
It is also believed, according to the Qu'ran, the day when
God determines the course of the world for the following
year.
The Story of Ramadan begins with a caravan trader, Muhammad,
who wandered the desert alone. It is there the Angel Gabriel
told Muhammad he had been chosen to receive the word of
Allah. When told this, Muhammad replied, "I am not
a reader." The Angel Gabriel then helped Muhammad memorize
verses that would become the Qur'an.
When the fast ends, it is celebrated for three days during
a holiday called Id-al-Fitr, Feast of Breaking the Fasts.
On the first day, congregational prayers are held at mosques.
Prior to the prayers, the Zakatul Fitr, which is charity,
must be given by those who are financially able. On this
day, gifts are given (mostly to children), celebratory hugs
are given, and Muslims wear their best clothes.
During Ramadan, Muslims are stripped of things they are
used to having access to everyday of the year: food and
drink. Living a month without these novelties reminds them
about the suffering of the poor, and how purifying yourself
can bring good. Ramadan is a time of prayer, cleansing,
family, and remembrance of those who don't have everything.
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