Welcome Ramadan – Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) (original) (raw)

A Time of Spiritual Renewal As the crescent moon graces the night sky, Muslims worldwide prepare to welcome the sacred month of Ramadan. Marking the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan entails one of the Five Pillars of Islam: Sawm, or Fasting. From dawn until sunset, believers abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs as an act of obedience and submission to the will of Allah.

Fasting during Ramadan is not merely a ritual; it is a deeply spiritual practice intended to cultivate empathy, self-control, devotion, communal solidarity, gratitude and purify our hearts, minds, and souls. The Quran describes Ramadan as the month in which the Holy Scripture was revealed as guidance for mankind, a beacon of light amidst the darkness. The significance of Ramadan extends beyond abstaining from worldly pleasures. It serves as a time of heightened spiritual awareness, a period for individuals to draw closer to Allah through increased prayer, acts of charity and seeking His forgiveness and mercy.

Ramadan is not solely about refraining from food and drink; it’s about abstaining from sinful behavior, negative thoughts, and harmful actions. The atmosphere during Ramadan is filled with tranquility and devotion. Families and communities come together to break their fast, while mosques overflow with worshippers engaged in Taraweeh prayers, reciting verses from the Quran and seeking spiritual rejuvenation. Muslims should prepare themselves months in advance for the spiritual challenge of Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) began his preparations for Ramadan even before the month of Sha’ban, fasting and increasing his acts of worship. Muslims engages in extra prayers, seek forgiveness for past mistakes and strives to improve themselves morally and spiritually. Reciting the Holy Quran during Ramadan is particularly emphasized, as it was revealed during this blessed month. Muslims should strive to complete the recitation of the entire Quran at least once during Ramadan, reflecting on its meanings and guidance for their lives. Ramadan fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences.

Regardless of nationality or background, believers unite in their devotion to Allah, embodying the values of compassion, generosity, and humility. Charity and generosity are also central to Ramadan and Muslims are encouraged to give generously, support the less fortunate and build stronger bonds of compassion and solidarity within their communities. The act of giving during Ramadan, known as Zakat al-Fitr, ensures that all members of the community can partake in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. In today’s fast-paced world, Ramadan serves as a timely reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our spiritual roots. It offers a sanctuary from the distractions of modern life, allowing individuals to deepen their faith and strengthen their relationship with Allah.

Ramadan is a month of mercy and forgiveness with the belief that during this blessed time, the gates of heaven are open, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are chained. This creates an atmosphere conducive to spiritual growth and repentance. As we embark on this sacred journey, let us embrace the blessings of Ramadan with open hearts and minds. It is an opportunity to strengthen one’s faith, purify one’s soul, and seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. As Muslims, we should all prepare to welcome Ramadan with sincerity, devotion, and a firm resolve to make the most of this blessed month. Let us strive to embody the principles of compassion, empathy, and humility in our interactions with others. May this holy month bring peace, blessings, and spiritual fulfillment to all those who observe it.

Ramadan Mubarak! Wishing you a blessed and spiritually enriching Ramadan.

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