Public Comment

It is the month of Ramadhan, a month of fasting for Muslims. It was in this month that the Holy Quran was first started to be revealed on the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Muslims are commanded to fast from dawn to dusk which means no eating nor drinking during this time. However, this fast is not only a physical rather a spiritual fast too. It is fasting from any and every bad habit. The Quran states: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you, as it was prescribed for those before you so that you may (learn) self-restrain”( 2:183 ). During this month Muslims are encouraged to pay more alms and to keep busy in prayers and good deeds. Muslims are encouraged to recite and study the Quran more deeply. Fasting is only prescribed for those who are capable. Kids, elderly, people with illness, pregnant, breastfeeding women and travelers are not to fast. The main point of Ramadhan is not only to go without food rather to learn self discipline, self restraint, shun bad habits and to feel for the poor. A person who fasts appreciates the blessings of God more especially at the time of dusk while opening the fast. Ramadhan helps you appreciate the minute things in life which we normally tend to take for granted. The month of Ramadhan establishes compassion for the needy in one's heart. The end of the month is celebrated with a religious holiday/festival, Eid-ul-Fitr.