From July 9 and 10, millions of Muslims around the world will observe Ramadan. As the Muslims in Newham welcome this event, two imams from the Newham Ulama Forum, an organisation of over 60 local Muslim scholars, imams, and leaders, has written a message for the community about the origins of Ramadan and the significance of fasting.
As the Muslims in Newham welcome this event, two imams from the Newham Ulama Forum, an organisation of over 60 local Muslim scholars, imams, and leaders, has written a message for the community about the origins of Ramadan and the significance of fasting.
“Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar as it commemorates Allah Almighty sending the Archangel Jibril (Gabriel) to Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him) to convey the first verses of the Quran.
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may acquire God-consciousness (piety).” Quran Chapter 2: Verse183.
“Fasting is meant to humble oneself and increase moral discipline as well as serve as a reminder of the plight of those less fortunate who live in hunger and deprivation.
“It has many health benefits as it helps the body to detoxify and speeds up the healing process of the immune system.
“The month of Ramadan is a time to connect with family, friends and the wider community and draw closer to Allah.
“Food and drink is not consumed during the hours of sunlight.
“Suhour is the meal eaten before sunrise; it is the last meal before the fast starts.
“Iftar is the meal eaten after sunset; it is the meal that ends the fast.
“This year Muslims in England will fast approximately 18 hours a day from 3.00am to 9.20pm
“A special night prayer is offered during Ramadan called the Taraweeh prayer. This special prayer is unique to Ramadan.
“After Ramadan ends, Muslims celebrate the festival of Eid Al Fitr, which literally translates into ‘The Festival of Breaking the Fast.’”
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