Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Dhu al-Qaadah 10, 1445 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Time to renew one's commitment to Allah

A woman prays at Al Aqsa compound during the third Friday prayer of Ramadhan in Jerusalem on Friday. — Reuters
A woman prays at Al Aqsa compound during the third Friday prayer of Ramadhan in Jerusalem on Friday. — Reuters
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Ramadhan is a significant month for Muslims around the world, where they practice fasting, prayer, and charity to demonstrate their devotion to Allah. This holy month is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and varies from year to year based on the lunar calendar. Muslims observe fasting as a way of self-discipline and a reminder of their empathy for those who are less fortunate. Muslims all over the world celebrate the start of Ramadhan with great enthusiasm and excitement.


Prayer and reflection


Prayer is an essential part of Ramadhan, with Muslims encouraged to perform their daily prayers and to attend mosque more frequently during this month. It is also a time for increased reflection and contemplation, with Muslims encouraged to read the Quran and to perform extra prayers known as Taraweeh. Taraweeh is a special prayer that is performed after the Isha prayer during Ramadhan. Muslims gather in mosques to recite a portion of the Quran and to perform the Taraweeh prayer. The recitation of the entire Quran is completed during Ramadhan. Ramadhan is a time for increased Quranic recitation. Muslims are encouraged to read and reflect on the Quran during this month, with many mosques holding special Quranic recitation sessions. It is also the time for increased spiritual reflection and contemplation. Muslims are encouraged to reflect on their spiritual goals and to seek forgiveness for their past sins. It is a time to develop a deeper understanding of Islam and to renew one's commitment to Allah.


Fasting


Fasting during Ramadhan means refraining from food and drink from dawn until sunset. This includes any physical needs such as smoking, sexual activity, and other worldly pleasures. The fast begins with the pre-dawn meal known as Suhoor and ends with the sunset meal known as Iftar. Fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are physically able to fast. The primary purpose of fasting is to develop self-discipline and self-control. It is a means to gain empathy for those who are less fortunate and a way to cleanse the soul of impurities. Fasting during Ramadhan has numerous benefits. It can help individuals to focus on their spiritual goals and deepen their relationship with Allah. It is also a way to develop self-control and self-discipline. Fasting can help to purify the soul and to develop an appreciation for the blessings in one's life.


Acts of charity and kindness


Ramadhan is also a time for acts of charity and kindness. There are many types of charity that can be performed during Ramadhan, including donating money, food, clothing, and other items to those in need. Muslims are also encouraged to perform acts of kindness and to volunteer their time to help others. The end of Ramadhan is marked by Eid al Fitr, a joyous festival that lasts for three days. During Eid, Muslims gather with family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy special foods and treats.


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