Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Lunar calendar and the Holiest of all the months. It begins with the sighting of the new moon after which all mature and healthy Muslims are obliged to Fast. During this month Muslims throughout the world abstain from eating, drinking, sexual contact etc.. between dawn till sunset.

However, that is merely the physical component of the fast; the spiritual aspects of the fast include refraining from gossiping, lying, slandering and all traits of bad character. All obscene and irreligious sights and sounds are to be avoided. Purity of thought and action is paramount.

Why is the Month of Ramadan called Ramadan?

There are various narrations concerning the name, but some scholars have stated that the word Ramadan could be from the word 'Ramada' which refers to the spring rains, which causes the earth to be cleansed and well soaked, so that a healthy crop is achieved after the rains.

The Scholars have mentioned, that the rains of mercy and blessing in the month of Ramadan cause the heart to be cleansed and filled with light and blessings. This prompts a person to become more pious, reaping the benefits from the showers of Allah (S.W.T)’s Mercy. Whichever way one looks at Ramadan, it is definitely a month of Mercy and Blessings.

Ramadan is also known by other names, such as The Month of Sabr (Patience), The Month of Good and The Month of Increase in Sustenance. Ramadan is referred to as the month of patience, because in Ramadan we keep fast and show much patience in doing so, by abstaining from even that which is Halal whilst Fasting.

It is known as the Month of Good, because it is in this month that Muslims are usually more Allah fearing and give generously for the pleasure of Almighty Allah.

It is known as the Month of Increase in Sustenance, because it is in the Month of Ramadan, that sustenance can be found in abundance, so much so, that even the poor and downtrodden attain the blessings of this month through increase in their sustenance.

Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad Mustafa (S.A.W) said: “ There are eight doors in Jannat. One of the Doors is known as Raiyyaan and only those who keep fast will enter through it.”