The Spirit of Ramadan in Islamic Countries and the Middle East
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. It is a period of immense devotion, self-discipline, and generosity, reinforcing the principles of faith, family, and community. The spirit of Ramadan is particularly vibrant in Islamic countries, especially in the Middle East, where cultural traditions and religious practices blend to create a unique and deeply moving experience.
The Sacredness of Ramadan and Laylatul Qadr
The significance of Ramadan is deeply rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith. It is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as guidance for humanity:
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
Within this blessed month lies Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, which is considered greater than a thousand months. It is a night of divine mercy and blessings, where sincere worship can lead to forgiveness and unimaginable rewards:
“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.” (Surah Al-Qadr 97:1-3)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged believers to seek this night in the last ten days of Ramadan, especially on odd-numbered nights, through prayer, supplication, and reflection.
According to Islamic tradition, there was once a righteous youth from Bani Israel who dedicated himself to the worship of Allah for a thousand months—approximately 83 years and 4 months—without faltering. He spent his entire life in prayer, fasting, and striving in the way of God. His devotion was so pure and unwavering that it became a legendary example of piety and commitment to faith.
When the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) heard about this story, they were amazed but also saddened. They realized that their own lifespans were much shorter than those of the people before them, and they feared that they would never be able to attain the same level of devotion and reward.
Moved by this concern, Allah, in His infinite mercy, granted the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) a special blessing: the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr). This single night, occurring in the blessed month of Ramadan, carries the reward of worshiping for more than a thousand months. It is a night of immense divine mercy, forgiveness, and blessings.
Fasting: The Heart of Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is an act of worship that teaches patience, gratitude, and self-restraint. The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the immense rewards of fasting:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. This daily sacrifice deepens their awareness of the blessings they often take for granted and fosters empathy for the less fortunate. The pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) and the sunset meal (Iftar) are cherished moments where families and communities come together, strengthening bonds of love and unity.
Charity: The Generosity of Ramadan
Ramadan is also a month of immense generosity, where acts of charity and kindness are highly encouraged. Zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) are given with open hearts, ensuring that the poor and needy also experience the joy of this blessed month.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” (Tirmidhi)
Many Middle Eastern countries have a strong culture of giving during Ramadan. Mosques, charities, and individuals distribute food to the less fortunate, organize mass Iftars for the underprivileged, and provide essential supplies to those in need. Streets are filled with volunteers offering dates, water, and meals to passing travelers before Maghrib prayer. The warmth and generosity of Ramadan are truly felt in these acts of kindness.
The Spirit of Family and Community
Ramadan is a time that strengthens family ties and community bonds. It is a month where homes are filled with the aroma of delicious food being prepared for Iftar. Families gather around beautifully set tables, sharing meals and engaging in heartfelt conversations. The tradition of breaking fast together fosters a sense of unity and gratitude.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of family ties:
“The person who severs the ties of kinship will not enter Paradise.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
In Middle Eastern countries, it is common for extended families to come together frequently during Ramadan. Relatives visit one another, exchange gifts, and strengthen their relationships. It is also a time when disputes are resolved, and forgiveness is sought, reinforcing the Islamic values of compassion and reconciliation.
Ramadan in the Middle East: A Cultural and Spiritual Experience
The Middle East is home to some of the most breathtaking Ramadan traditions. Cities come alive with vibrant decorations, lanterns, and special Ramadan markets. Streets are adorned with glowing lights, and the air is filled with the melodious recitation of the Qur’an from mosques.
One of the most cherished traditions in many Middle Eastern countries is the presence of the Musaharati—the Ramadan drummer—who walks through the streets before dawn, calling people to wake up for Suhoor. This tradition has been preserved for centuries and continues to be a beloved part of Ramadan culture.
In countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, grand Iftars are held in mosques and public spaces, where people from all walks of life sit side by side to break their fast. This spirit of unity and equality is a powerful reminder of the essence of Ramadan.
The Power of Du’a and Worship in Ramadan
Ramadan is not just about fasting—it is also a time for intense worship and seeking closeness to Allah. Muslims dedicate more time to prayer, reciting the Qur’an, and engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
The special Taraweeh prayers, performed in congregation after Isha prayer, bring the community together in devotion. Mosques are filled with worshippers, standing in long rows, listening to the beautiful recitation of the Qur’an. The night prayers during the last ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant, as believers seek Laylatul Qadr.
Eid al-Fitr: The Joyous Conclusion of Ramadan
As Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims prepare for Eid al-Fitr, a joyous celebration marking the completion of a month of fasting and worship. Eid begins with a special prayer at the mosque, followed by festive gatherings with family and friends. It is a day of gratitude, joy, and giving, as Muslims distribute Zakat al-Fitr—charity given before the Eid prayer to ensure that the less fortunate can also partake in the celebrations.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Give charity on behalf of your fasting, for it will purify it from any idle or obscene speech.” (Abu Dawood)
In the Middle East, Eid celebrations include grand feasts, exchanging gifts, and visiting loved ones. The atmosphere is filled with happiness and gratitude, as families embrace the blessings of the past month.
In South East Asia in Ramadan the family gets together in Iftar after a long day of fast. Let us study, read Quran and do Sadaqah(Charity).
The Prophet (saw) said, ‘Ramadan is the month of my Ummah’(Suyuti).
Ref:https://muslimhands.org.uk/latest/2019/04/iftar-ideas-preparing-for-ramadan-2019
This Ramadan make a wish list ,Read Quran, learn about Islamic Scholars like Al Suyuti.
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