To All Muslims on Earth, Have a Blessed Ramadhan!

Girls and women during a religious gathering in a small mosque in Magelang, Central Java. | Photo: Sahrudin.

BELIEVERS! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain Taqwa (God-consciousness). — The Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:183

CAN’T believe a year went by so fast.

We meet again with our holy month of Ramadhan.

This year, Ramadhan 1442 AH (Anno Hegirae) to start today, Monday, April 12, 2021.

Anno Hegirae, meaning “in the year of the Hijra/Hijri”, is the system of Islamic lunar calender.

Ramadhan is the ninth month of the 12-month Hijri calendar.

The month of Ramadhan could be 29 or 30 days each year.

Ramadhan doesn’t start on the same date each year.

Ramadhan begins about 11 days earlier than in previous year.

During the month of Ramadhan, all Muslims who have reached puberty and are in good health are required to fast.

The sick and elderly, along with travelers, pregnant women and those who are nursing are exempt.

They are, nevertheless, supposed to make up for the missed fast days sometime in the future.

Meanwhile, the elderly are required to pay the “fidyah”, or help feed the poor.

The fast begins at dawn and goes until sunset.

During these hours, Muslims are expected to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, as well as sexual activity, and all things that might nullify one’s fast.

Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the soul and to grow empathy for those who are hungry and less fortunate.

Ramadhan is the month of introspection and prayer.

In the Holy Month, Muslims are encouraged to avoid unnecessary debates and unimportant disputes.

Wishing you a blessed Ramadhan, to all Muslims on Earth![sahrudin]