Ramadan (Arabic: رمضان
Ramaḍān, IPA: [rɑmɑˈdˤɑːn];[variations] Persian: رَمَضان
Ramazān; Urdu: رَمْضان
Ramzān; Turkish: Ramazan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar; Muslims worldwide observe this as a month of fasting. This annual observance is
regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts 29–30 days based
on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous
biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths. The word Ramadan comes from the
Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means scorching heat or dryness. Fasting
is fard ("obligatory") for adult Muslims, except those who are ill,
traveling, pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic or going through menstrual
bleeding. Fasting the month of Ramadan was made obligatory (wājib) during the
month of Sha'aban, in the second year after the Muslims migrated from Mecca to
Medina.
While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from
consuming food, drinking liquids, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations; in
some interpretations they also refrain from swearing. Food and drink is served
daily, before sunrise and after sunset. According to Islam, the thawab (rewards) of
fasting are many, but in this month they are believed to be multiplied. Fasting
for Muslims during Ramadan typically includes the increased offering of salat
(prayers) and recitation of the Quran.
Chapter 2, Revelation 185 of the Quran states:
The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the
Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the
criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast
the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other
days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you
should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided
you, and that perhaps you may be thankful.
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and
increased devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into
following the teachings of Islam. The fast begins at dawn and ends at sunset.
In addition to abstaining from eating and drinking, Muslims also increase
restraint, such as abstaining from sexual relations and generally sinful speech
and behavior. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from
worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from
harmful impurities. Ramadan also teaches Muslims how to better practice self-discipline,
self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus
encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (zakat).
It becomes compulsory for Muslims to start fasting when they
reach puberty, so long as they are healthy and sane, and have no disabilities
or illnesses. Many children endeavor to complete as many fasts as possible as
practice for later life.
Exemptions to fasting are travel, menstruation, severe
illness, pregnancy, and breast-feeding. However, many Muslims with medical
conditions insist on fasting to satisfy their spiritual needs, although it is
not recommended by the hadith. Professionals should closely monitor individuals
who decide to persist with fasting. Those who were unable to fast still must
make up the days missed later.
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