208 days ago
208 days ago
First, Muslims are to reframe eating, drinking and sexual intercourse during the daylight hours. However, young children, the elderly, those traveling long distances, the unhealthy and women menstruating are exempt from the fast. Second is the Iftar. Iftar is the giant meal prepared every evening to break the fast. Most markets and restaurants are closed during the day, but nights at bazaars are packed and filled with delicious foods, drinks and entertainment. Third, Ramadan is a spiritual reflection that teaches one to examine their lives and become closer to Allah. Mosques are busier than usual with recitations of the Quran, banquets/dinners and other special events. Fourth, while the Zakat (or giving to charity) is important in Islam, it’s particularly emphasized during Ramadan. Fifth, the Eid al-Fitr is the last day of Ramada and is marked with prayers, feasts, giving to charity and exchanging presents amongst family and friends.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of the Islamic Faith. The second is recitation of the Shahada (“There is no god but God and Muhammad is his prophet”). The Shahada should be the first words a Muslim hears at birth, the last words one says before death, is recited in many prayers and is what any convert to Islam is required to say. Next is the Salat, or praying five times a day. Devout Muslims pray at various hours of the day and night and always face towards Mecca. Another is the Zakat, or giving to charity. A wealthy person should donate 2.5% of their salary to the poor while those with less money should donate other items or goods. Last is the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. Every Muslim is expected to go to Mecca at least once in their life and, if financially capable, help others perform the Hajj.
