The Holy Month of Ramadan celebrated worldwide and at our neighborhood Canton Mosque

The blessed month of Ramadan started on July 20th this year. In the Qur’an, God reminds us “ Oh you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you (e.g. Jews and Christians), so that you may be mindful of  God.” (2:183). “It was in the month of Ramadan that the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind, clear messages giving guidance and distinguishing between right and wrong.

So anyone of you who is present that month should fast, and anyone who is ill or on a journey should make up for the lost days by fasting on other days later. God wants ease for you, not hardship. He wants you to complete the prescribed period (one lunar month) and to glorify Him for having guided you, so that you may be thankful.”
(2:185).

The fast of Ramadan is obligatory to all healthy adults and is one of the five essential pillars of Islamic practice. It has a special status in the sight of God. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, told us that God, the most merciful has said “All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him except fasting, which is for Me and I will reward for it accordingly.”

In essence fasting is refraining from eating, drinking or any sexual activity between dawn to dusk and bringing out one’s best character. It is like a training camp or retreat for us to truly experience the hardship which the poor and the needy go through everyday and to prepare us in the best manner to serve God and His humanity. It is also a time for introspection, asking forgiveness from God, seeking His pleasure and achieving a spiritual rejuvenation in the material world that we live in.

Ramadan gives us an opportunity, to strengthen our bonds of family, friends and neighbors; get closer to our Creator by offering more prayers and charity; building our patience and promoting the best character in dealing with all human beings. By giving generously both materially and spiritually, we provide for those less fortunate and enrich the lives of those among us.

There are many health benefits which come with the fasting of Ramadan. Firstly if we do not overindulge in eating, caloric restriction can help us shed a few pounds which we all need. It also disciplines our eating habits and gives us a great
opportunity to get rid of bad habits like smoking, snacking, excessive coffee
or pop drinking.

Besides fasting, during the month of Ramadan, there are additional prayers at night where the whole Quran is recited, usually a chapter every night.  

The end of Ramadan is marked by the Islamic holiday of Eid-ul-Fitr, a day of rejoicing and thanksgiving to our Lord and Creator. This year Eid will be celebrated on Sunday, August 19th.   Muslims enjoy this day with their
family, friends and neighbors and feast on good food.

                                           Mahmood & Annette Abdul Hai