Muslims’ Rituals And Observances In The Holy Month Of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, its first day is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, Ramadan is from 10 July till 9 August. The Muslims around the world abstain from eating and drinking from dawn till dusk during the holy month of Ramadan, nearly 16 hours per day. Ramadan has many special benefits such as it is a means of coming closer to god, to learn self-control during fasting, giving charity, a time of worship, reading the holy Qur’an, doing good deeds and purifying one’s behavior. Fasting is very important to our health as to give a break in the cycle of rigid habits of overindulgence; it is also a way of learning the appreciation and thankfulness for all of God’s bounties.

Muslims, around the world, used to break their fast with dates at the sunset following the custom of Prophet Mohammed. They invite each other to share the meal in Ramadan. For celebration, they cook several recipes of food, drinks and desserts to eat during hours of breaking fast , parents bring colorful Lanterns to their kids, kids hang decorations in streets and houses and they go to masjid (mosques) to pray Taraweh.

Muslims are welcoming the holy month of Ramadan by hanging decorations in houses and streets such as light effects, lanterns and stars and crescents to celebrate. It is a great month full of benefits and bounties which Muslims wait for a full year to enjoy and feel happy.