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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, ...