Origins of Ramadan
In order to understand how Ramadan became a significant part of Islam, we will trace back to the year 610 A.D. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) meditated in the cave of Hira near Mecca and received the first revelations of the Qur’an from angel Jibril. The angel stated that these words came directly from Allah (SWT) and He is the one and only God. He emphasized the oneness and all-knowing nature of Allah (SWT) in contrast to the common polytheistic beliefs in Arabia at that time.
Muhammad (PBUH) was informed that he was the final prophet sent by Allah (SWT) to spread the teachings of the religion of Islam. Notably, other prophets sent by Allah (SWT), such as Noah (Nuh), Abraham (Ibrahim), Moses (Musa), and Jesus (Isa), are also integral to the teachings of Judaism and Christianity. The night when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) first saw the angel Jibril is known as Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power).
It is widely believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not receive all of Allah’s (SWT) teachings at once, but rather continued to receive revelations for 23 years after Laylat al-Qadr. However, the underlying principle of the revelations remains the same. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was given five fundamental principles by Allah (SWT), which serve as the guiding values for all Muslims to adhere to in their daily lives. One of these principles is fasting, which serves as the foundation of Ramadan.
The five principles are called the five pillars of Islam.
- Shahada- One’s declaration of their faith in the singular true deity, Allah (SWT).
“Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Abduhoo Wa Rasooluh”
Translation: “I bear witness that there is no God but Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
- Salat- Muslims are obligated to perform five daily prayers as a means to enhance their relationship with Allah (SWT) and foster a stronger spiritual connection with Him.
- Zakat- in this third pillar of Islam. Allah (SWT) emphasizes the importance of providing assistance to those who are less fortunate.
- Sawm- the foundation of Ramadan is rooted in the concept of fasting, as the word itself translates to ‘to fast’.
- Hajj- every physically capable Muslim is required to undertake a pilgrimage to Mecca, which is the site where the initial revelations from Allah (SWT) were received by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Teachings of Ramadan
The Night of Decree, Qur’an was first revealed, descending to the lower heavens which is the beginning of Ramadan. The month of Ramadan teaches us to be more pious, disciplined, and maintain self-control, while shielding our souls from greed and immorality. There are several benefits of fasting, including the following:
- To demonstrate self restraint and moderation in action
- To purify and detoxify our bodies
- To be reminded that some people do not have access to food and go hungry every day.
- To be more compassionate and grateful for what we have
- Ultimately, fasting is a practice that strengthens the relationship between individuals and Allah (SWT)
Fasting During Ramadan
Ramadan holds great significance in Islam, but prioritizing one’s health is crucial. Therefore, it is important to understand that not everyone can refrain from eating and drinking throughout the day. Individuals who are in puberty, elderly, weak, or ill and taking medication, pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, or traveling are exempt from fasting (they are required to pay Fidyah instead). Fidyah is a charitable donation to feed the poor when someone cannot fast in Ramadan due to illness or other reasons. However, they are still expected to adhere to other obligations of Ramadan.
Here are some tips to fast during Ramadan:
- Make sure to hydrate yourself by drinking plenty of water before sunrise.
- Eat a fulfilling meal during suhur (before sunrise)
- Refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset.
- Make a commitment to fast every night throughout the month of Ramadan.
- Avoid activities that break the fast including all impure thoughts and swearing, gossiping, arguing, fighting and sexual contact.
- Stay resilient and bounce back from any challenges that may arise during fasting.
- Set fasting as a goal to achieve during Ramadan.
References:
(n.d.). The History of Ramadan [Review of The History of Ramadan]. Muslim Aid. Retrieved February 27, 2024, from https://www.muslimaid.org/media-centre/blog/the-history-of-ramadan/
