The importance of Ramadan and Fasting
<h3> The importance of Ramadan and Fasting </h3> <p> The month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a holy month for muslims all over the world and the coming of this month is greeted with much joy and anticipation. This joy can be witnessed in a country like Pakistan , where the sighting of the moon is followed by fireworks, elaborate displays of lights and decorations covered with flowers. This month is considered a gift from God in the form of mercy and forgiveness. During this time Muslims feel they can get in touch with their inner selves, strengthen their faith and in a certain way, come closer to God. The Lailat-ul.Qadr is considered to be one of the most important nights in this month and is much awaited. It is considered a gift to Muslims from the Almighty as they are given a chance to wash their sins and become pure. </p> <p> The most distinctive feature of this sacred month is the concept of fasting, which is the third pillar of Islam. Fasting normally begins at the break of dawn and ends at sunset. During this time, Muslims are supposed to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex. The entire idea of fasting is definitely not to starve oneself but to be on a different spiritual plane altogether. When one is not distracted by physical needs, as during fasting, one finds more time to devote and submit oneself to Allah. The health benefits of fasting cannot be questioned. It has been proved that during fasting, the body gets a chance to develop its immune system and rid itself of the toxins that have accumulated. It has also been related to a longer life expectancy. </p> <p> Fasting also allows the Muslims to inculcate in themselves, the spirit of sacrifice because it is in the name of God, that they willingly abstain from natural desires. Also, fasting brings to life, the spirit of helping those who are less fortunate. Not being able to consume food or water for a small period of time makes one realize the importance of having easy and constant access to meals. In everyday life, one does not give much thought to what poverty stricken people go through when they are in doubt about whether or not they will get their next meal. In all its essence, Ramadan is the best time to give gifts in the form of Zakat and charity. Zakat is also another essential pillar of Islam and the concept of Zakat is to basically purify one’s wealth by giving to those who have not been as blessed. </p> <p> During the month of Ramadan, religious events called milads often take place. These are quite popular in Pakistan, and are gatherings where hymns are sung in praise and remembrance of the prophets. Also, during this sacred month, people visit the graves of their loved ones, offer prayers for their salvation and then cover the graves with flowers as an expression of their love. </p> <p> The end of Ramadan is celebrated by Eid and it is on this occasion that gifts are exchanged in spirit of the holy month, especially in Pakistan, where it has become a part of tradition and society. These gifts might be in the form of flowers, money or just presents.</p> <p> ===============</p> <p> Signature: Sheryar Khan is a graduate of Sir Syed University and is the owner of Pakistan Gifts Store, a Pakistan Gifts Emporium company.</p>
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