FASTING in the month of Ramadan by Elizabeth Rahman
Fasting is one of the tenets of many faiths, occurring in Lent for Christians, at Yom Kippur for Jews, and in Ramadan for Muslims. Fasting is one of the five pillars (or tenets of faith) of Islam along with the declaration of faith, prayer, charity, and the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Muslims fast from dawn to sunset every year during the month of Ramadan. Since Muslims follow the lunar calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan occurs 11 days earlier each year. In a span of 33 years, it covers all of the seasons so that the population of any given country is not always fasting during the challenging long hot days of summer or the short cooler days of winter.
The fast is beneficial to one’s physiological health, allowing for systemic detoxification, as well as brain health where fasting increases the production of a protein that improves brain function. Primarily, however, it is a method of spiritual self-purification and teaches self-control and patience. Muslims are required to abstain from all negative actions, besides abstaining from food and drink and also sex while fasting during the day. By removing worldly comforts, even for a short time, an individual gains some insight into the feelings experienced by those who are less fortunate, and helps to alleviate hunger by sharing food with others. Fasting also gives us an appreciation for the simple blessings we take for granted, such as pure water or eating whenever we feel like it. During Ramadan, Muslims also give zakat (alms or charity) to those who are less fortunate.
In the words of Dr. Shegufa Merchant, “Fasting in Ramadan has always felt like a purposeful spiritual activity. An active deed to contribute to, in solidarity with those that worry about each meal on their table. It is a feeling of blessed equalizing. An opportunity to reflect and be grateful in a structured manner each year. Fasting also gives me a feeling of practicing charity of well-being and spirituality just like there is charity with money and time.
I am always amazed that on a routine day, when I don't infuse myself with tea and food I feel lax, weak and ravenous after a few hours. But when I am fasting, my body knows not to ask me for food and water, even on long summer fasting days. I actually feel de-stressed that I only have to think about cooking the one evening meal and this frees-up time for prayer and reflection. Moreover, that one meal together as a family has a unique charm because everyone first prays the evening prayer together and then breaks the fast together! (That is three 'togethers' in one brief sentence!)
When Ramadan is nearing the end each year, I feel like a good friend is leaving my home.”
Every year, millions of Muslims all over the world look forward to Ramadan. This year, the month of Ramadan is expected to begin in Canada on the evening of Monday 12th April, when Muslims will cook together as a family, and share food with friends – and sometimes strangers. At the end of the month of Ramadan, Muslims wait for the sighting of the new moon, and celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with family and friends, with presents for the children and lots of food! In normal circumstances, many Muslim communities in Canada, including here in Peterborough, invite people of other faiths to celebrate with them.
Dr. Shegufa Merchant & Elizabeth Rahman are co-founders of The Oasis, a community organization founded on Islamic principles of oneness in service to God and the community.