Fasting Archives

Celebrating Ramadan in Sri Lanka-Kalani-eLanka As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims around the world are preparing to embark on a journey of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and communal solidarity. In Sri Lanka, where diversity is deeply ingrained in the fabric of society, Ramadan holds a special significance, fostering unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds. Scheduled to commence on April 11th, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. For the Muslim community in Sri Lanka, Ramadan represents a time of heightened spirituality and devotion, marked by acts of charity, selflessness, and compassion. One of the key pillars of Ramadan is fasting from dawn until sunset, during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of obedience to Allah (God) and as a means of purifying the soul. Through ...

Ramadan – By Fahim Sultanbawa Source : Queensland Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – April 2023 Around the world, almost two billion Muslims are currently observing the holy month of Ramadan. This means Muslims will be waking up before dawn to eat and drink in order to fast during the day. After sunset, families end their fast with the evening meal called ‘iftar’ before attending night prayers. Fasting during the month of Ramadan comprises one of the five central tenets or ‘pillars’ of Islam, along with ‘Shahada’ – one’s intention to practise Islam, ‘Salah’ or prayer, ‘Zakat’ or charity, and ‘Hajj’ – pilgrimage. By fasting, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking (even water) to refocus their attention on the remembrance and worship of God. Beyond perceptions that, for example, fasting provides health benefits or allows Muslims to experience the pangs of hunger, which may indeed be secondary benefits, Muslims fast, ...