Ramadan and its activities ensues a religious observance by almost 2 billion people. The month of utmost endurance and discipline began on Friday, May 26th. It ended on Saturday, June 24th. The festival inculcates moral values in religious observers and teaches discipline from a very young age.
Ramadan – A Fast from Evil
Fasting in Arabic – sawm literally means ‘to be at rest’. It encourages individuals to relax and contemplate about themselves. In terms of happiness, success, family and loved ones. Leaving their stresses and concerns of the past. This helps individuals to prioritize and realize what truly matters. It aids in forgetting grudges, forgiving foes and compensating for lost time.
Ramadan rituals create a sense of solidarity among Muslims. They perform the same duty in the same manner, at the same time, for the same purpose and identical end. A sentiment of brotherhood and unity manifests itself particularly in the month of Ramadan. It makes Muslims feel connected and also develops sensitivity and gratitude. Experiencing the pains of deprivation and hunger, encourage Muslims to involve themselves in charity (zakat).
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims are advised to ‘see no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil’. This makes it a fasting not only of food, but also a fast from evil. Be it talking ill of someone else, raising your voice, or even having someone else pick a fight with you. Fasting enriches values of will-power, emotional and physical restraint and disciplining one’s self.
Furthermore, Ramadan is most often than not responsible for flourishing independence and sincerity. Particularly among youth, they learn to adapt their lifestyle to an entirely new schedule for an entire month. Ensuring that their fast remains valid comes from the sincerity of their heart and belief in their faith. There are a specific list of things that validate the fast and numerous things that invalidate it, these are followed religiously.
Ramadan – A Purifying Fast
Finally, observing Ramadan is believed to purify one of their sins. It aids those who have wronged in the past to receive divine forgiveness and to ensure they do not repeat these wrongs.
However, the values gained from observing the month long fast is not exclusive to those of Islamic faith. We too can attempt to ‘see no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil’ on a daily basis. We too can give to charity regardless of the occasion. Ramadan teaches us a lot about time management, compassion and restraint.
Celebrating the values of Ramadan we at IVolunteer International wish you all Eid Mubarak (Blessed Eid)!
