Ramadan is an Islamic religious observance that takes
place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when the Quran
was revealed. The name "Ramadan" is taken from the name of this
month; the word itself derived from an Arabic word for intense heat,
scorched ground, and shortness of rations. It is considered the most
venerated and blessed month of the Islamic year. Prayers, sawm
(fasting), charity, and self-accountability are especially stressed
at this time; religious observances associated with Ramadan are kept
throughout the month. The most prominent event of this month is the
daytime fastin (sawm) practiced by most observant Muslims. Every day
during the month of
During Ramadan, Muslims are also expected to put more
effort into following the teachings of Islam as well as refraining
from lying, stealing, anger, envy, greed, lust, sarcastic retorts,
backbiting, and gossip. Obscene and irreligious sights and sounds
are to be avoided; sexual activities during fasting hours are also
forbidden. [Quran 2:187] Purity of both thought and action is
important. The fast is intended to be an exacting act of deep
personal worship in which Muslims seek a raised level of closeness
to God. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from
worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the inner soul and
free it from harm. Properly observing the fast is supposed to induce
a comfortable feeling of peace and calm. It also allows Muslims to
practice self-discipline, sacrifice, and sympathy for those who are
less fortunate, intended to make Muslims more generous and
charitable.
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