Holy Month of Ramadan:
The month of Ramadan varies slightly from year to year. Literally translated Ramadan means “drying up”.
It is believed that, for 11 months of the year people look after their bodies, and this is the one month where the soul is looked after over the body. It is forbidden to eat, drink or smoke during daylight hours, and this is marked from the early morning call to prayer to the sunset one.
The concept is that when you don’t eat or drink your sins dissolve and God forgives you. At this time a person resembles an Angel because you are not taking care of the body. This month is seen as exercise for the soul.
During Ramadan eating and drinking starts after sunset prayer.
” The experience of fasting during Ramadan, which comes during the different seasons over the years since it is calculated by the moon, is of genuine advantage to the believer. It is a practical exercise of will, self control and civil conduct. After a few days of fasting, one develops the power of restraint and rejoices in his ability to master his own desires and eccentricities. Fasting has a spiritual as well as physical aspect.”
{Concept of Islam, Mahmoud Abu-Saud. P111}
Muslims also believe Ramadan can help them empathize with the poor who often go hungry.
The call to prayer is called the athan. This occurs 5 times a day, and the time which they occur varies according to the season.
The “call to prayer” is performed by a man called moathin.
** Shortly after you arrive, the Holy Month of Ramadan will start. It is advisable to be aware of what this entails, so that no offence is caused and respect is shown to the local people and their customs.
During the Holy Month of Ramadan where Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset, it is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public during the hours of daylight, from sunrise to sunset.
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