The "holiday season" is coming upon us. Colorful lights, joyful
carols.... a time of reflection and renewal. Many people do not realize
that for one-fifth of the world's population, another "holiday season"
has just ended: the Islamic month of Ramadan.
Ramadan is a period of fasting, reflection, devotion, generosity and sacrifice observed
by Muslims around the world. It is observed during the ninth lunar month
of the Islamic calendar, which fell this year between November 6 and December 6,
2002.
In recent years, Ramadan has been observed during the "holiday
season" of the other two great monotheistic faiths. But the timing is where the similarity ends. Whereas Christmas and Hanukkah have
become widespread, commercialized holidays for many, Ramadan retains its intense spiritual
meaning.
The word "Ramadan" comes from the Arabic root word for "parched
thirst" and "sun-baked ground." It is expressive of the hunger and
thirst felt by those who spend the month in fasting. As opposed to other holidays,
when people often indulge, Ramadan is by nature a time of sacrifice.
- Through fasting, a Muslim experiences hunger and thirst, and sympathizes with those in
the world who have little to eat every day.
- Through increased devotion, Muslims feel closer to their Creator, and recognize that
everything good we have in this life is a blessing from Him.
- Through increased charity, Muslims develop feelings of generosity and good-will toward
others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said, "A man's wealth is
never diminished by charity."
- Through self-control, a Muslim practices good manners, good speech, and good habits.
- Through family and community gatherings, Muslims strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and
sisterhood, in their own communities and throughout the world.
Ramadan is a very special time for Muslims, but the feelings and
lessons we experience should stay with us throughout the year.
In the Qur'an, Muslims are commanded to fast so that they may
"become pious" (Qur'an *:*). This piety and devotion
is especially felt during Ramadan, but we all must strive to make
the feelings and attitude stay with us during our "normal"
lives. That is the true goal and test of Ramadan.
May Allah accept our fasting, forgive our sins, and guide us all
to the Straight Path. May Allah bless us all during Ramadan,
and throughout the year, with His
forgiveness, mercy, and peace, and bring us all closer to Him and to each other.
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