Ramadan Meaning and Significance
Ramadan is one of the most important times of the year for Muslims. It falls in the ninth Islamic calendar month, which follows the lunar cycle. Ramadan lasts for either 29 or 30 days. The Arabic word "Ramadan" comes from the root word "ramad," meaning scorching heat, which reflects both the intensity of Ramadan and the extinguishing of sins. The blessings of Ramadan are huge. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged us to increase our good deeds, as all good deeds are multiplied by at least 70.
Ramadan is a month of fasting from sunrise to sunset each day. Ramadan is a time of deep reflection and renewing of intentions. Many communities come together for worship, prayer, and the breaking of the fast. Ramadan is a time of expressing gratitude for our blessings and connecting with those in need around the world.
This Ramadan, share the holy month's blessings and donate to alleviate suffering worldwide. Your donations can help provide iftar meals, medical aid, shelter, and hope to vulnerable and impoverished families.
What is Ramadan Fasting?
Fasting during Ramadan, called Sawm in Arabic, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all mature Muslim men and women, of sane mind. Fasting in Ramadan is an act of obedience and worship of Allah (saw).
Each day in Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn (the Fajr prayer) to sunset (the Maghrib prayer), abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and physical intimacy. Also during this time, Muslims are not allowed to donate blood or to have any injections. Fasting is not required for those who are unwell, elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, or traveling.
What is the Purpose of Ramadan?
The main purpose of Ramadan is to increase in spirituality and God-consciousness. It is a time for Muslims to focus on their relationship with Allah (SWT) and to increase their faith. By fasting, people are able to exercise restraint within their bodies, while also growing in gratitude, contentment and spirituality. Giving charity is a very important part of Ramadan.
By giving charity, whether it is through obligatory giving of Zakat, or voluntary donations of Sadaqah, Muslims can connect with those in need and lean into a higher purpose. As all good deeds are multiplied by at least 70-fold, many people choose to donate their Zakat during the month of Ramadan.
Be part of our programmes centred on uplifting vulnerable communities this Ramadan. Donate now to provide vital food that will uplift families around the globe.
What is Ramadan in Islam?
The month of Ramadan is hugely significant in Islam, both from a historical and spiritual perspective. Ramadan was the month in which the Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The night on which this happened, is Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power. It is known to be better than 1,000 months, and the best night of all.
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.” [Holy Qur’an | 97:1-5]
Laylat al-Qadr falls within the last ten odd nights of Ramadan, though the actual date is unknown to mankind. Muslims search for the special night in the final ten days of Ramadan, increasing in prayer, remembrance and charity, to make the most of every moment.
The Spirit of Generosity During Ramadan
Generosity is a huge element of Ramadan and integral to how Muslims behave and worship during this month. Not only are Muslims generous with their charity, this month is a great opportunity for people to reach out to their neighbours, family and communities, bringing people together for the sake of Allah (swt).
The true spirit of Ramadan goes beyond individual acts of kindness or charity, and is about generosity, kindness and selflessness in every action and in all intentions. This Ramadan, your generosity can make the world of difference to those in need, helping them to thrive amongst struggle.
Donate now to ensure no one is left behind this Ramadan and beyond.