'Ramadan Kareem'
Ramadan is Generous (greeting)
Today marks the first day of Ramadan, 2010. More than 1 billion Muslims around the world begin their holy month of spiritual purification through fasting, self sacrifice and prayer. According to Islamic tradition, the month of Ramadan represents the time when Allah revealed the Qu'ran to the Prophet Mohammad. During this month people over 12 years old fast from sunrise to sunset. The meal before sunrise is called sahur, and the breaking of the fast is named iftar. Travelers, the ill, and menstruating women usually do not fast.
The Arabic word الامتناع for fasting literally means to refrain, not only from food and drink but also from all physical desire, profane language, and gossiping. It is an overall awareness of the body and a complete Surrendering of the soul. It is an important time to reevaluate ones convictions and deeds. It is time to forgive and be forgiven, to mend and nurture relationships and refocus toward Allah, الله (God.)
The Arabic word الامتناع for fasting literally means to refrain, not only from food and drink but also from all physical desire, profane language, and gossiping. It is an overall awareness of the body and a complete Surrendering of the soul. It is an important time to reevaluate ones convictions and deeds. It is time to forgive and be forgiven, to mend and nurture relationships and refocus toward Allah, الله (God.)
This year, as with most there is uncertainty about the exact starting day of the fast. It depends on the moon. The Ramadan moon looks like this;
"The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the inner soul and free it from harm. It also allows Muslims to practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and charity." -Zakat
A waxing crescent at about 3%. The month of fasting will commence Wednesday, August 11th and end with a three day festival called Eid ul fitr on September 9th. Based on sightability of the moon in North America, some say the fasting will begin and end a day later.
Even if we don't live in a Muslim country, or hold the same beliefs as the billion people who embark on purification today - it is good to recognize practice of purification, as with other sacred customs around the world. Islam may be the most misconceived religion of our time, especially illustrated by fanatic acts. But truly Islam means Submission to God, and that in and of itself is a peaceful conduct.
Although I live in a Secular Nation, I do believe that in a world of such great and ever developing pluralism - We should be teaching religion in schools. Dialogue is needed, understanding is needed in order to prepare students for a life characterized by diversity and hybridization. This is not about promoting one religion over another, but engaging in a comparative consideration of all major religions. It is an essential base for understanding history and current global happenings.
Even if we don't live in a Muslim country, or hold the same beliefs as the billion people who embark on purification today - it is good to recognize practice of purification, as with other sacred customs around the world. Islam may be the most misconceived religion of our time, especially illustrated by fanatic acts. But truly Islam means Submission to God, and that in and of itself is a peaceful conduct.
Although I live in a Secular Nation, I do believe that in a world of such great and ever developing pluralism - We should be teaching religion in schools. Dialogue is needed, understanding is needed in order to prepare students for a life characterized by diversity and hybridization. This is not about promoting one religion over another, but engaging in a comparative consideration of all major religions. It is an essential base for understanding history and current global happenings.
