FAQs about Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is when Muslims abstain from food and drink, including water, during daylight hours. The Arabic word "ramadān" means "to be thirsty."

Ramadan is the month in which Muslims believe the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Qur'an says that fasting was prescribed for those who live where it's hot and dry (Qur'an 2:185). But it also says that people can fast for three days every month (Qur'an 2:184).

Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day for 30 days. They must abstain from eating, drinking, and sexual activity during this time. Fasting helps them become closer to God by restraining their desires and feelings of hunger or thirst.

Why is Ramadan Celebrated?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and Muslims worldwide observe this month by fasting from sunrise to sunset. Ramadan is a time when Muslims are encouraged to read more about Islam and Quran (By reciting or taking online Quran Classes), spend more time in prayer and be more charitable.

The observance of Ramadan was commanded in the Quran, where God says:

"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint." (Quran 2:183)

What are the Benefits of Fasting?

Fasting is abstaining from all food and drink, except for water, for a set period. Many cultures have practiced fasting throughout history, and religious fasting is only one type.

Fasting can improve health and wellness by cleansing the body of toxins, reducing inflammation and balancing hormones. It can also be an effective way to lose weight or break unhealthy eating habits.

The benefits of fasting are vast and varied. Some people fast for spiritual reasons, some for physical health reasons like weight loss or diabetes management, and some do it to detox their bodies from toxins that accumulate.

What to Expect in Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. During Ramadan, Muslims are supposed to cleanse themselves of all their sins and shortcomings. They should also be more kind, generous, and patient during this time.

Muslims often have a celebratory meal called "Iftar" after breaking their fast at sunset. This meal usually comprises dates, water or milk, and some food such as yogurt, soup, rice, or bread with meat or vegetables.

The end of Ramadan is celebrated with an event called Eid-ul-Fitr (or Eid for short). It is a three-day celebration that starts on the first day after Ramadan.

Tips for Fasting in Ramadan

Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, and charity. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. For Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours. It includes water, food and drink. The goal is to teach self-restraint and remind oneself that all good things come from God.

To survive the day without food or water, the body has adapted in various ways:

i. The liver produces glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis which can be used as an energy source for cells in the body;

ii. The brain switches its fuel supply to ketones which are derived from stored fat;

iii. A lack of food means less blood sugar, so the body increases its production of insulin;

What are Some Rituals During Ramadan?

The holy month of Ramadan is an important time for Muslims. The fasting ritual lasts for about 30 days and is observed by abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours.

The fasting period begins at dawn with a pre-dawn meal called the Sehri meal, usually eaten before sunrise but can be taken up to two hours before that time. Fasting continues until sunset when Muslims break their fast with a three-course meal called the iftar.

Ramadan is also a time to reflect on one's actions and thoughts during the previous year. It's a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth through increased devotion to prayer, good deeds, charity, and reading the Quran.

How Can You Prepare for Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims observe this holy month by fasting from dawn to sunset. It is a time for self-reflection and self-discipline.

Muslims are encouraged to spend more time with their families, friends, and communities during this period. They should also avoid unhealthy habits and behaviors like smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating unhealthy food.

The first thing you can do to prepare for Ramadan is to read about it on reputable websites or in books that Muslim authors or scholars have written. You can also talk to your family about what you can expect during this time, so there are no surprises when it starts.

What Are Some Recipes That Are Good During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a month-long observance that is important to Muslims. Muslims are expected to not eat or drink from dawn to dusk. A Muslim can eat during Ramadan if they are traveling, pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating.

Traditionally, Muslims may not eat or drink anything from sunrise until sunset. During Ramadan, many people eat lighter versions of their favorite dishes to reduce the food they consume during the day. Here are three recipes that will be enjoyable and healthy during Ramadan.

There are many recipes to break the fast. The most common ones are:

• Fruit chats including Fruits like apples, oranges, and grapefruit

• Pakoras and chips

• Salads like grilled chicken salad with mixed greens

• Sandwiches like a turkey sandwich with spinach and tomato or a ham and cheese sandwich

• Traditional Middle Eastern Salad

• Mediterranean Inspired Hummus

• Moroccan-Style Chicken with Chickpeas and Apricots

• Lamb Kofta Kebab with Tahini Sauce

How Can You Make Ramadan Fun for Your Kids?

The holy month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and self-control. It is also a time for family bonding. If you are looking to make this Ramadan memorable for your kids, here are some ways you can do it:

• Make the most of the month by doing activities together as a family.

• Cook different dishes from around the world and try them with your children.

• Invite friends and neighbors over for iftar or suhSuhoorhe meal that breaks the fast).

• Give your children an allowance to spend on themselves or others during Ramadan to teach them about generosity, sharing, and empathy.

• Take them to the mosque on Fridays or Eid prayers to give them an understanding of faith and spirituality."