Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. For more than a billion Muslims around the world-including some 8 million in North America-Ramadan is a “month of blessing” marked by prayer, fasting, and charity.
Fasting is one of the important concepts of Ramadan. It is known as “Sawm” amongst the Muslims who follow this tradition of fasting.
Muslims practice fasting, during the entire month of Ramadan. This means that they may not eat or drink nothing, including water, while the sun shines. They cannot swallow their saliva too.
Fasting is one of the Five Pillars (duties) of Islam. As with other Islamic duties, all able Muslims take part in sawm from about age twelve. It is a religious concept and it is very touching to see small children taking this commitment of fasting so seriously.
During Ramadan in the Muslim world, most restaurants are closed during the daylight hours. Families get up early for suhoor, a meal eaten before the sun rises. After the sun sets, the fast is broken with a meal known as iftar. Iftar usually begins with dates and sweet drinks that provide a quick energy boost. It is the time when the entire family gets together to break the fast.
Fasting serves many purposes. While they are hungry and thirsty, Muslims are reminded of the suffering of the poor. This helps them to be more sympathetic towards the unfortunate. The spirit of fasting strengthens their sense of obligation they have towards the unfortunate.
Fasting is also an opportunity to practice self-control and to cleanse the body and mind. And in this most sacred month, fasting helps Muslims feel the peace that comes from spiritual devotion as well as kinship with fellow believers.
Fasting during Ramadan not just brings about physical but also spiritual rejuvenation of an individual.
