Happy Ramadan

Islam is the world’s second-largest religion after Christianity and has more than 1 billion followers. Islam originated in Arabia and spread all over the world.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan is celebrated as the month during which Muhammad received the initial revelations of what became the Quran, the holy book for Muslims, from God.

This year it will run from March 23 to April 22nd, actually beginning at sundown March 22nd and ending at sundown April 21st, 2023. As one of the five pillars, or duties, of Islam, fasting during the month of Ramadan is mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims. Children who have not reached puberty, the elderly, those who are physically or mentally incapable of fasting, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and travelers are exempt. Menstruating women are also exempt from fasting.

There are 3 stages of Ramadan. 1st (First 10 days) – Mercy of Allah (Rahmah). 2nd (Second 10 days) - Forgiveness of Allah (Maghfirah). 3rd(Final 10 days)-Safety from the Hellfire (Nijat).

During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating any food, drinking any liquids, smoking cigarettes, and engaging in any sexual activity from dawn to sunset. They eat one meal just before dawn and another after sunset. Taking medication (even if you swallow a pill dry, without drinking any water, is forbidden.)

If someone observing Ramadan becomes sick, it should be fine to break the fast, and they only need to make up another day after Ramadan. You must make up for the days that were missed.

Health Benefits? Ramadan fasting increases the red blood cells, white blood cells, platelet count, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and decreases the blood cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Ramadan is a fantastic detox for the body by clearing your digestive system throughout the month. Some experts say it even improves your mental health!