To the Editor:
Every year, the Muslim community around the globe commemorates the revelation of the Quran (Islam’s most sacred book) by observing the month of Ramadan. Because Muslims adhere to the lunar calendar, the month of Ramadan tends to shift around the seasons; one year Ramadan can transpire in the winter, and another year it can occur during the summer, as it is this year.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, martial behavior, and sexual conduct from dawn to sunset, usually arising an hour before sunrise to prepare for the day’s fast. In addition, Muslims must maintain a clean hygiene in order to ensure that their prayers and fasting are accepted. It is also highly encouraged to increase in charity, familial gatherings, prayers, and recitation of the Quran essentially because good deeds are magnified, as are sins.
The perks of Islamic fasting are innumerable. Myriads of children, men, and women around the globe, endure an entire day (or more) without a drop of water or even the mere aroma of food. Thus, by fasting, Muslims taste only a portion of the hardships others may withstand. This emanates from Muslims compassion for the less fortunate and imbues in them a sense of love and care towards each other. Islamic fasting also disciplines Muslims and instills in them a sense of obedience to Allah (God). While many may regard Islamic fasting as a hazard to one’s health, it contrarily cleanses the digestive system. In addition, by temporarily refraining from secular desires, Muslims are able to dedicate more time to prayers and recitations of the Quran.
The universal symbol of Ramadan is a brightly lit lantern. Tradition holds that prior to the frequent installation of street lights, lanterns were used to light the way to the Mosque for early morning and evening prayers. So, if you see a paper lantern anywhere in the city, you know what it symbolizes!
For more information, please visit http://bayonnemuslims.com/Ramadan.
DINA SAYEDAHMED