Dates | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan

Traditionally, Muslims break their fast with dates. This practice began with the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He would break his fast with dates. There are many hadiths in which Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encourages Muslims to eat dates.

No Ramadan iftar is complete in a Muslim household without dates. Sales of dates increase during Ramadan with Muslims buying dates for their families.

The following article provides a few facts on the benefits of eating dates.

The Quran refers to dates in a few places:

When the mother of Prophet Jesus was giving birth to him and she was experiencing pain, she was told to: "Shake the trunk of the palm towards you and fresh, ripe dates will drop down onto you."

The Hadiths also refer to dates:

Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: the prophet (PBUH) said: “Indeed in dates there is a cure”. Reported by Muslim (14/3) and Ahmad (6/152)

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “ Whoever finds dates should break his fast with them and the one who does not should break his fast with water because it is pure”

It was reported by Abu Naaim, Abu Daoud, Al Hakem, Al Imam Al Tirmithi and mentioned in The book of Al Imam Al Thahabi “The Prophetic Medicine” that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “ The one who eats 7 dates in the morning will be protected that day from poison and envy”

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Break your fast by eating dates as it is purifying.” (Narrated by Ahmad)

The health benefits of dates are multiple. The following are excerpts on the health benefits of dates.

Pregnant Women
It has been shown that (scientific studies) have shown that eating dates are beneficial for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Dates contain certain stimulants which assist in the strengthening of the muscles of the womb which can lead to an easier delivery. The sugar content of dates is about 80% making it an ideal high energy food for nursing mothers. Dates contain seven vitamins and eleven minerals whose importance as a dietary supplement was appreciated by the desert people who, for thousands of years, ate dates with goat or camel milk as a complete sustenance.


Dates to Treat Diseases like Cancer
Dates are reported to be useful in the treatment of respiratory disorders, heart conditions, cancer (due to its high magnesium and calcium content), anemia, allergies, and constipation. Bedouin Arabs, who eat them on a regular basis, show an extremely low incidence rate of cancer and heart disease.


Dates to Improve Digestion
Dates are also valuable as medicine for their tonic effect. Being easily digested, they are very useful for supplying energy and repairing waste. Milk in which clean and fresh dates have been boiled is a very nourishing and restorative drink to children and adults alike, especially during convalescence. The nicotinic content in dates is an excellent remedy for intestinal disturbances. Liberal use of dates keeps in check the growth of pathological organisms and helps to establish a colony of friendly bacteria in the intestines.


Dates to Treat Constipation
The date is a laxative food. It is highly beneficial in the treatment of constipation as the roughage provided by it stimulates sluggish bowels. They should be immersed in water at night and taken after making them into a fine syrup the next morning to secure laxative effect.


Dates to Treat Weak Heart
Besides, dates are an effective remedy for weak heart. Dates soaked overnight in water and crushed in the same water in the morning after removing the seeds should be taken at least twice a week in this condition. It will strengthen the heart.


Dates to Prevent Sterility
Sexual weakness can also benefits from dates. A handful of dates soaked in fresh goat's milk overnight should be ground in the same milk in the morning. A pinch of cardamom powder and honey should be mixed in this preparation. This becomes a very useful tonic for improving sex stamina and sterility due to functional disorders.


Dates in a Tree


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Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Morocco | Milkshakes

Milkshakes are a good way to introduce healthy drinks into the Ramadan iftar menu. Milkshakes are easy to prepare, nutritious (especially for children who have been fasting) and tasty.

The following two recipes for milkshakes are from Morocco. They are popular drinks served during iftar in Morocco.

Moroccan Almond Milkshake



Ingredients

* 1/2 cup almonds, blanched and peeled
* 1 1/2 cups cold milk
* 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar
* splash of orange flower water
* 4 or 5 ice cubes, optional

Method

Place the blanched almonds in a blender, and process until the almonds are a fine powder. Add the milk, sugar and orange flower water, and blend on high speed to mix well. If desired, add ice cubes while the blender is running to chill the drink even more. Pour into glasses, and serve immediately.

Moroccan Avocado Milkshake



Ingredients

* 2 to 3 cups cold milk
* 1 ripe avocado
* 3 tablespoons sugar
* handful of ice (optional)

Method

Peel the avocado and cut in half. Discard the pit. Put the avocado and sugar in a blender with 1 cup of milk. Blend until very creamy and smooth.

Gradually add another cup or two of milk to make the shake as thin or as thick as you like. How much milk you need will depend on the size of the avocado.

Add a handful of ice to the blender if you like your shake well-chilled, and blend for another minute. Pour into glasses, and serve.

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Ramadan Iftar Recipe From Morocco | Chabakia

The chabakia (or chebbakia, chebakia, shabakia) is a Moroccan dessert that is very popular during Ramadan. Chabakia are crisp, honey-soaked almond pastries flavored with saffron and orange water and sprinkled with sesame seeds, a traditional Ramadan treat.

Try this recipe out for your iftar. Your family will certainly enjoy it!


Chebakia Ramadan Iftar Recipe


Ingredients

1 Kilo all-purpose flour
125g butter (melted)
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp powdered cinnamon
1 tbsp grounded anise seeds
1 tsp grounded arabic gum with little bit of sugar
1/2 roasted and grounded sesame seed
1 cup of peeled, roasted and grounded almonds
2 tbsp of vinegar
A pinch of salt
1/2 tsp saffron in a half a cup of blossom water
250g honey
2 tbsp of roasted sesame seeds for sprinkling.

Method

1) Blossom water to mix the dough. (About a cup and half)

2) Mix all the ingredients except the honey and the sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

3) The dough would be hard to handle in the beginning. Knead it well.

4) Form the dough into four medium balls.

5) Wrap them in plastic bag and let it rest for 15min. Now use a rolling pin to flatten the dough. and shape into squares.

6) Make three cuts into each square and shape them following the steps in the pictures. Put them on a tray powdered with little bit of flour.

7) Once done, heat a frying pan and cook them on both sides for about 3min on each side, on a medium high setting.

8) Dip them immediately in honey as long as you can. Drain them, and sprinkle them with the sesame seed.



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Dates | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan

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Healthy Eating During Ramadan


Healthy Eating During Ramadan: Strategies for a Healthy Diet

When we over-eat during Ramadan, or practice generally unhealthy eating habits during Ramadan, we will not have the energy to perform our religious obligations. Due to changes in eating and sleeping times, we tend to become more tired overall. This feeling of tiredness can be compounded by unhealthy eating habits. But there are ways to avoid such problems so that we feel energised during the day while fasting and after iftar (breaking of the fast). When it is time to attend taraweeh prayers, for instance, we will not say that we do not have the energy to make it!

Here are some tips for how to choose foods that will improve your energy level during Ramadan. These are tips that you can continue to use after Ramadan as well.

Tips for Healthy Eating

1) Eat enough calories when you are able to after iftar and during sahoor, but not too many. Maintain a balance between your calorie intake and calorie expenditure, that is, do not eat more food than your body uses. The average recommended daily allowance is 2,000 calories, but this depends on your age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity.

2) Eat a wide variety of foods. Do not focus only on deep-fried and sugary things that are so prevalent at iftar tables during Ramadan. Healthy eating is essentially about expanding the range of food choices. Include vegetables, whole grains, or fruits that you do not normally eat.

3) Our bodies are unable to ingest large quantities of food because of fasting throughout the day. Over-eating at iftar is a sure way to expand your waist-line. So keep the portion moderate, especially for high-calorie foods. Time your food intakes - for instance, eat a little at iftar, then head for Maghrib prayers, then after the prayers, you can eat a little more (perhaps fresh cut fruits or fruit juices); then head for taraweeh prayers, or reading of Quran at home; afterwads have your dinner. Be sure to give enough time for you to digest your dinner before bed-time.

4) Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes—foods high in complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, low in fat, and free of cholesterol. Try to get fresh, local produce

5) Drink more water. Our bodies are about 75% water. So we have to replenish our bodies with water constantly. During fasting, we do not ingest water. So after breaking of the fast, it is important to remember to drink water. Water helps flush our systems, especially the kidneys and bladder, of waste products and toxins. Eating fruits with large water content like watermelons will also be useful.

6) Limit sugary foods, salt, and refined-grain products. Sugar is added to a vast array of foods. In a year, just one daily 12-ounce can of soda (160 calories) can increase your weight by 16 pounds. See suggestions below for limiting salt and substituting whole grains for refined grains.

7) Do not be extreme. You CAN enjoy your favorite sweets and fried foods in moderation, as long as they are done occasionally and in moderation.

8) Do light exercises. Yes, even though we are fasting during Ramadan, moving about can help with blood circulation and increased energy levels. Thw worsrt thing we could do is sit still. Instead, go about yout normal routine. Coupled with the healthy diet, the energy level and feelings of well-being will improve.


We Deprive Ourselves of Certain Things

FOR


Chance to Get to Paradise


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Ramadan Duas | Duaas for the First 10 Days of Ramadan

The meaning of Dua is Supplication to God, that is, your personal communication to Allah. There are far more non-Arabic speaking Muslims than Arab speaking Muslims in the world. Some of them mistakenly believe that duas are simply Quranic verses said by the Imams after prayers, and so they memorize Arabic duas to repeat themselves without fully understanding what they are saying.

You do not have to do that. Allah understands you, no matter what language you speak. Allah also knows you deep in and out - all of your feelings that you may try to hide outwardly. When you say a dua to God, you are essentially communicating aloud to him what He knows resides in your heart - so there is no reason for you to hold back.

The holy month of Ramadan is an especially good time for believers to ask God for what they want. Be it for peace in their lives, help from adversity, or to excel at school or work.

The Hadith has said this of Dua:

Dua (supplication) is the essence of worship. (Anas, Tirmidhi).

The Prophet said: Duas of three persons are not refused: a fasting man when breaking the fast, a just ruler, and an oppressed person, Allah's blessings be upon him. (Abu Huraira, Tirmidhi).

No one makes a Dua without Allah giving him what he asks for, or keeping away from him a similar amount of evil, provided he does not ask for something sinful, or for breaking family ties (Jabir, Tirmidhi).

The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his progeny) has said:
It (Ramadhan) is the month, whose beginning is mercy, its middle, forgiveness and its end, emancipation from the fire (of hell) -- Bihar al-Anwar, Vol.: 93, Pg.: 342

Ashra is an Arabic word which means "ten." In Islamic terminology, the 1st Ashra refers to the first 10 days of the Holy month of Ramadan. The second Ashra refers to the middle 10 days (11-20), and the third Ashra refers to the last set of 10 days (21-30).

You may say your own Ramadan Duas. But some of us may find it difficult to find the words to speak to God. Hence, we have compiled a list of recommended Duas to get you started (in english language).

Duas for the First 10 Days of Ramadan (1st Ashra)

1st Day
O Allah, on this day make my fasts the fasts of those who fast (sincerely), and my standing up in prayer of those who stand up in prayer (obediently), awaken me in it from the sleep of the heedless, and forgive me my sins, O God of the worlds, and forgive me, O one who forgives the sinners.

2nd Day
O Allah, on this day, take me closer towards Your pleasure, keep me away from Your anger and punishment, grant me the opportunity to recite Your verses (of the Qur'an), by Your mercy, O the most Merciful.

3rd Day
O Allah, on this day, grant me wisdom and awareness, keep me away from foolishness and pretention, grant me a share in every blessing You send down, by You generosity, O the most Generous

4th Day
O Allah,on this day, strengthen me in carrying out Your commands, let me taste the sweetness of Your rememberance, grant me, through Your graciousness, that I give thanks to You. Protect me, with Your protection and cover, O the most discerning of those who see.

5th Day
O Allah, on this day, place me among those who seek forgiveness. Place me among Your righteous and obedient servants, and place me among Your close friends, by Your kindness, O the most Merciful.

6th Day

O Allah, on this day, do not let me abase myself by incurring Your disobedience, and do not strike me with the whip of Your punishment, keep me away from the causes of Your anger, by Your kindness and Your power, O the ultimate wish of those who desire.

7th Day
O Allah, on this day, help me with its fasts and prayers, and keep me away from mistakes and sins of the day, grant me that I remember You continously through the day, by Your assistance, O the Guide of those who stray.

8th Day
O Allah, on this day, let me have mercy on the orphans, and feed [the hungry], and spread peace, and keep company with the noble­minded, O the shelter of the hopeful.

9th Day
O Allah,on this day, grant me a share from Your mercy which is wide, guide me towards Your shining proofs, lead me to Your all-­encompassing pleasure, by Your love, O the hope of the desirous.

10th Day
O Allah, on this day, make me, among those who rely on You, from those who You consider successful, and place me among those who are near to you, by Your favour, O goal of the seekers.



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Dates | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan

Honey | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan

Honey | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan

Honey has many beneficial health qualities. The Quran and Hadith (Prophet Muhammad's sayings) has considered honey as a healer of disease. Prophet Muhammad was reported to have drank an infusion of water sweetened with honey on an empty stomach, and such a custom holds ample benefits and subtle secrets. It has also been said that drinking honeyed water can help with weight loss!

Honey has also been considered as beneficial to the health by ancient civilizations from the Ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks to the Romans. Honey has been used to heal diseases, treat wounds and stomach problems.

The following article provides a few facts on the benefits of eating honey.

The Quran refers to honey:

"Bees were inspired through inborn advice by the Rabb, instructing: ‘Make hives in mountains, in trees and in that which they (humans) build. Then eat of all the fruits and follow the ways of your Rabb submissively. There comes out from within (their bodies) a drink of various hues (honey), in it is healing (effect) for humans. Verily in this is a sign for the people who consider it.’"
[Surah 16: 68-69]

Prophet Muhammad said this of honey:

"Make him drink honey." The man came back the next day and said: "I made him drink honey and it did not help! The Prophet (pbuh) gave the same advice for two or three times, and the man kept coming back with the same answer. After the third or fourth time, The Prophet (pbuh) then said: "God spoke the truth, and your brother's belly lies." The same tradition was reported in Sahih Muslim wherein the man said: "My brother's belly is squeamish."
[Reported in Sahih Bukhari]

"Whosoever eats honey (at least) three times per month will meet with no great affliction"
[Abu Huraira (R.A.)]

"Honey is a remedy for every physical illness and the Qur’an is a remedy for all mental illness; therefore, I recommend to you both as remedies, the Qur’an and honey"

Honey for Weight Loss

Traditionally, for weight loss, honey has been combined with cinnamon. You may also a concoction each morning made by boiling a half cup of water with a half teaspoon of cinnamon powder and a teaspoon of honey. Since boiling honey destroys important enzymes, modify this recipe by pouring boiling water over the cinnamon then stirring in honey, to taste, after the water has cooled somewhat.

Honey to Treat Headaches and Migraine

Take 2 teaspoons at meals to prevent an attack. For headaches and migraines, take 1 dessert spoon honey dissolved in half a glass of warm water at start migraine. Repeat in 20 minutes if necessary.

Honey for Improving Athletic Performance

Recent research has shown that honey is an excellent ergogenic aid and helps in boosting the performance of athletes. Honey facilitates in maintaining blood sugar levels, muscle recuperation and glycogen restoration after a workout.

Honey As a Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Honey contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. The vitamin and mineral content of honey depends on the type of flowers used for apiculture. Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: Honey has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and hence it can be used as a natural antiseptic. Honey contains trace amounts of protein, plus riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), vitamin B6, folate (vitamin B9), vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

Honey Rich in Antioxidants

Honey contains nutraceuticals, which are effective in removing free radicals from our body. As a result, our body immunity is improved. Honey contains antioxidants, some found only in honey, which include pinobanksin, chrysin, catalase and pinocembrin.

Caring for Skin with Milk and Honey

Milk and honey are often served together as both these ingredients help in getting a smooth soothing skin. Hence consuming milk and honey daily in the morning is a common practice in many countries.

Honey to Cure Stomach Ache

Take 1 teaspoon of honey, juice of ½ a lemon with a hot glass of water first thing in the morning.

Honey in Wound Management

* Honey possesses antimicrobial properties.
* It helps in promoting autolytic debridement.
* It deodorizes malodorous wounds.
* It speeds up the healing process by stimulating wound tissues.
* It helps in initiating the healing process in dormant wounds.
* Honey also helps in promoting moist wound healing.

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Iftar Imsak Jakarta Indonesia Timetable

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for Jakarta Indonesia.

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)
Jakarta, INDONESIA




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Iftar Imsak Melbourne Australia Timetable

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for Melbourne Australia

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)
Melbourne, AUSTRALIA




Healthy Eating Habits Tips During Ramadan
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Dates | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan


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Ramadan Iftar Imsak Time Table for Sydney Australia

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for Sydney Australia

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)
Sydney, AUSTRALIA




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Dates | Beneficial Things to Eat During Ramadan


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Ramadan Iftar Imsak Timetable for Mumbai, India

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA. Mumbai was formerly known as Bombay.

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)

MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA
Latitude: N 18deg 58.5min Longitude: E 72deg 49.53min
Qibla: 79:45:51 W (From N)




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Ramadan Iftar msak Timetable for Chennai, India

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for CHENNAI, TAMIL NADU, INDIA (Chennai was formerly known as Madras).

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)

CHENNAI, TAMIL NADU, INDIA
Latitude: N 13deg 4.98min Longitude: E 80deg 16.98min
Qibla: 72:4:17 W (From N)




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Ramadan Calendar Timetable London, UK

Please find below the Ramadan 2009 calendar with Imsak and Iftar times for London, United Kingdom (UK).

Note 1: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).
Note 2: Ramadan starting date is according to Makkah.



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What to Avoid During Ramadan

We came across this excellent article via an email forward recently. The following article contains useful reminders on what NOT to do during Ramadan - a valuable read indeed. The holy month of Ramadan will be over before we even realise it - so while we have the time, we should make good use of it by spending more time on our spiritual objectives. Ramadan only come once a year - seize the opportunity to reap in good for yourself and your family while it lasts.

1. Taking Ramadaan as a ritual: For many of us Ramadaan has lost its spirituality and has become more of a ritual than a form of Ibaadah. We fast from morning to night like a zombie just because everyone around us is fasting too. We forget that its a time to purify our hearts and our souls from all evil. We forget to make dua, forget to beseech Allaah to forgive us and ask Him to save us from the Fire. Sure we stay away from food and drink but that's about all.

Although the Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "Jibreel said to me, 'May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person to who Ramadaan comes and his sins are not forgiven,' and I said, 'Ameen'. Then he said, 'May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person who lives to see his parents grow old, one or both of them, but he does not enter Paradise (by not serving them) and I said, 'Ameen'. Then he said, 'May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person in whose presence you are mentioned and he does not send blessings upon you,' and I said, 'Ameen.'" (Tirmidhi)

2. Too much stress on food and drink: For some people, the entire month of Ramadaan revolves around food. They spend the ENTIRE day planning, cooking, shopping and thinking about only food, instead of concentrating on Salaah, Quraan and other acts of worship. All they can think of is FOOD. So much so that they turn the month of 'fasting' into the month of 'feasting'. Come Iftaar time, their table is a sight to see, with the multitudes and varieties of food, sweets and drinks. They are missing the very purpose of fasting, and thus, increase in their greed and desires instead of learning to control them. It is also a kind of waste & extravagance.

".....and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance, certainly He (Allaah) likes not Al-Musrifoon (those who waste by extravagance)" [al-Araaf :31]

3. Spending all day cooking: Some of the sisters (either by their own choice or forced by their husbands) are cooking ALL day and ALL night, so that by the end of the day, they are too tired to even pray Ishaa, let alone pray Taraweeh or Tahajjud or even read Quraan. This is the month of mercy and forgiveness. So turn off that stove and turn on your Imaan!

4. Eating too much: Some people stuff themselves at Suhoor until they are ready to burst, because they think this is the way to not feel hungry during the day and some people eat at Iftaar, like there is no tomorrow, trying to 'make up for the food missed.' However, this is completely against the Sunnah. Moderation is the key to everything.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach; for the son of Adam a few mouthfuls are sufficient to keep his back straight. If you must fill it, then one-third for food, one-third for drink and one-third for air." (Tirmidhi).

Too much food distracts a person from many deeds of obedience and worship, makes him lazy and also makes the heart heedless.

It was said to Imam Ahmad: Does a man find any softness and humility in his heart when he is full? He said, I do not think so.

5. Sleeping all day: Some people spend their entire day (or a major part of it) 'sleeping away their fast'. Is this what is really required of us during this noble month? These people also are missing the purpose of fasting and are slaves to their desires of comfort and ease. They cannot 'bear' to be awake and face a little hunger or exert a little self-control. For a fasting person to spend most of the day asleep is nothing but, negligence on his part.

6. Wasting time: The month of Ramadaan is a precious, precious time, so much so that Allaah calls this month "Ayyamum Ma'doodaat" (A fixed number of days). Before we know it, this month of mercy and forgiveness will be over. We should try and spend every moment possible in the worship of Allaah so that we can make the most of this blessing. However, there are some of us who waste away their day playing video games, or worse still, watching TV, movies or even listening to music. Subhaan Allaah! Trying to obey Allaah by DISOBEYING him!

7. Fasting but not giving up evil: Some of us fast but do not give up lying, cursing, fighting, backbiting, etc. and some of us fast but do not give up cheating, stealing, dealing in haraam, buying lotto tickets, selling alcohol, fornication, etc. and all kinds of impermissible things without realizing that the purpose of fasting is to not stay away from food and drink; rather the aim behind it is to fear Allaah.

"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)" [al-Baqarah 2:183]

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it, and ignorance, Allaah has no need of him giving up his food and drink." (Bukhaari)

8. Skipping Suhoor: The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "Eat suhoor for in suhoor there is blessing."(Bukhaari, Muslim).

And he (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "The thing that differentiates between our fasting and the fasting of the People of the Book is eating suhoor." (Muslim)

9. Not fasting if they missed Suhoor: Some people are too scared to fast if they miss Suhoor. However, this is a kind of cowardice and love of ease. What is the big deal if you missed a few morsels of food? It's not like you will die. Remember, obedience to Allaah overcomes everything.

10. Delaying breaking fast: Some people wait until the adhaan finishes or even several minutes after that, just to be 'on the safe side'. However, the Sunnah is to hasten to break the fast, which means breaking fast whenever the adhaan starts, right after the sun has set. Aa'ishah (RA) said: This is what the Messenger of Allaah (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) used to do. (Muslim)

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "The people will continue to do well so long as they hasten to break the fast." (Bukhaari, Muslim)

Determine to the best of your ability, the accuracy of your clock, calendar, etc. and then have tawakkul on Allaah and break your fast exactly on time.

11. Eating continuously until the time for Maghrib is up: Some people put so much food in their plates when breaking their fast and continue eating, enjoying dessert, drinking tea, etc., until they miss Maghrib. That is obviously not right. The Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh) was that once he broke his fast with some dates, them he would hasten to the prayer. Once you are done with the prayer, you can always go back and eat some more if you wish.

12.Missing the golden chance of having your Dua accepted: The prayer of the fasting person is guaranteed to be accepted at the time of breaking fast.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "Three prayers are not rejected: the prayer of a father, the prayer of a fasting person, and the prayer of a traveler." (Tirmidhi).

Instead of sitting down and making Dua at this precious time, some people forego this beautiful chance, and are too busy frying samosas, talking, setting the food, filling their plates and glasses, etc. Think about it....Is food more important than the chance to have your sins forgiven or the fulfillment of your Duas.

13. Fasting but not praying : The fasting of one who does not pray WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. This is because not praying constitutes kufr as the Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: "Between a man and shirk and kufr there stands his giving up prayer." (Muslim)

In fact, NONE of his good deeds will be accepted; rather, they are all annulled.

"Whoever does not pray 'Asr, his good deeds will be annulled." (Bukhaari)

14. Not fasting because of exams or work: Exams or work is NOT one of the excuses allowed by the Shariah to not fast. You can do your studying and revision at night if it is too hard to do that during the day. Also remember that pleasing and obeying Allaah is much more important than 'good grades'. Besides, if you will fulfil your obligation to fast, even if you have to study, Allaah will make it easy for you and help you in everything you do.

"Whosoever fears Allah, He will appoint for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect, Allah is Sufficient for whosoever puts his trust in Him." (Surah at-Talaaq 2-3)

15. Mixing fasting and dieting: DO NOT make the mistake of fasting with the intention to diet. That is one of the biggest mistakes some of us make (esp. sisters). Fasting is an act of worship and can only be for the sake of Allah alone. Otherwise, mixing it with the intention of dieting may become a form of (minor) Shirk.

16. Wasting the last part of Ramadaan preparing for Eid: Some people waste the entire last 10 days of Ramadaan preparing for Eid, shopping and frequenting malls, etc. neglecting Ibadah and Lailatul Qadr. although, the Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) used to strive the hardest during the last ten days of Ramadaan in worship (Ahmad, Muslim) and not in shopping. Buy whatever you need for Eid before Ramadaan so that you can utilize the time in Ramadaan to the max.

Aa'ishah (RA) said: "When the (last) ten nights began, the Messenger of Allaah (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam)) would tighten his waist-wrapper (i.e., strive hard in worship or refrain from intimacy with his wives), stay awake at night and wake his family." (Bukhaari and Muslim).

17. Iftaar parties: Although inviting each other for breaking fast is something good and encouraged, some people go to extremes with lavish 'Iftaar parties' with all sorts of disobedience to Allaah, from flirting, mixing of the sexes and hijaab-less women, to show-off and extravagance, to heedlessness to Salaah, and Taraweeh to even music and dancing.

How to Fast Healthily During Ramadan

Eating Healthy During Ramadan Gives Us Energy to Embark on Increased Religious Obligations

It can be very easy to fall into a bad routine during Ramadan. The lack of food may give us excuse to be lethargic, lazy and irresponsible towards the many obligations and duties in our lives. We may slack off at work, stop studying at school and so on. That is very bad, and contrary to what it expected of Muslims during Ramadan.

To counter this, the article below shows how you can maintain a healthy diet while fasting. Here are some simple guidelines to make sure that your diet remains balanced and healthy during this fasting period:

This Type of Schedule is NOT what You Want During Ramadan


Don't skip breakfast (Suhoor) Even though sleep may seem far more appealing than waking up to force down some food, don't skip breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Research has shown that breakfast provides the essential energy and nutrients needed for concentration, while keeping hunger symptoms like headaches, fatigue, drowsiness and restlessness at bay. In addition, it speeds our metabolic rates. It is therefore vital to ensure an adequate intake at breakfast time.

Eat a wide variety of foods When your daily intake is limited to two meals per day, you need to put extra effort into including foods from all the food groups. Our bodies need at least 40 different nutrients daily, to ensure that we grow properly and maintain good health. Although most foods contain more than one nutrient, no single food provides all the necessary nutrients. Moreover, foods have benefits that can't be replicated by a pill. So it is important to eat a wide variety of foods every day, to ensure that we get all of these nutrients. Select foods each day from each of the five food groups:

· Breads, cereals and other grain products
· Fruit and vegetables
· Meat, fish and poultry
· Milk, cheese and yoghurt
· Fats and sugars (these are low in nutrients & high in calories, so limit intake!)

Eat low glycaemic (GI) foods at breakfast to help control blood sugar levels Carbohydrates are classified according to their glucose response or glyceamic index (GI). The GI measures how fast the carbohydrate of a particular food is converted to glucose and enters the bloodstream. The lower the GI, the slower the food is converted to sugar and the longer it satisfies your hunger. Selecting low GI foods helps maintain normal blood sugar, minimises hunger pangs & satisfies appetite without providing excess calories. Also, by controlling blood sugar levels, you prevent excessive eating binges as a result of low blood sugar levels. Remember to include low GI foods at each meal, and to avoid eating high GI foods on their own, but rather to mix them with low GI foods, which will give an intermediate GI overall.

Be aware of your cooking methods By making small changes in your cooking habits, you can create great-tasting foods that are also healthy for you. Many of those treasured family-favourite recipes have a very high fat content for today's health-conscious living. Don't give up on your favourites – just convert them!

Here's how:

· Always trim off excess fat from before cooking, or use venison, chicken and soya as lower fat options. Remove poultry skin & choose light meat (eg. breast).

· Cut down on fat intake during cooking:

- cook onions in a little water or vegetable stock rather than oil or butter
- use non-stick frying pans & non-stick sprays rather than oil or margarine
- bake, grill or roast foods rather than frying
- cook roasted meat or poultry on a wire rack so that the fat can drip off
- Steam or boil vegetables
- when preparing rice, noodles & other grains, season with herbs, spices & broths rather than added fat
- prepare soups, gravies & sauces in advance, so that they can be refrigerated, allowing you to remove the layer of fat that forms on top.
- Use herbs and spices to add flavour & zest to low-fat cooking. Basil, bay leaf, oregano, & rosemary add distinctive flavours & colours to meat & vegetables. Spices, like cinnamon, ginger & nutmeg enhance the sweet taste of foods, & seasoning blends, such as chilli powder, curry powder provide a complex array of flavours

· Avoid taking in too much salt

- Use garlic, dry mustard, pepper, onions, mushrooms & tomatoes to add flavour to meat and vegetables - Add sliced lemon or lemon juice to white meats & fish
· Make healthy changes to recipes Cut the fat in half - if a recipe requires cream or whole milk, use evaporated or fresh skim milk. If a recipe requires a whole egg, use two egg whites, etc.

Eat enough carbohydrate foods - especially those rich in fibre These foods provide the body with energy. They are rich in B vitamins, and are an excellent source of fibre. Hi-fibre foods also fill you up more than low-fibre counterparts. Foods high in fibre include brown rice, wholegrains, fresh fruit and raw veggies.

Remember your fruits and vegetables - Fruit and vegetables add colour and variety to the menu. They are "protective" foods as they help the body fight off sickness and disease. They are also rich sources of a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, and are low in calories.

Drink sufficient fluid - Always include water in your diet, and cut down on caffeine-containing beverages. Caffeine is a diuretic and will not provide adequate hydration.
We all know that maintaining a balanced diet by eating healthily has a vital influence on your well being. Try following the above principles so that this fast period does not sway too much from the principles of good nutrition.

Source: www.themodernreligion.com

Over-eating is Dangerous So Avoid It


Enjoy Ramadan Tastes from Around the World
Here on the Ramadan Blog!


Ramadan Iftar Recipe from India

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Singapore

Ramadan Iftar Recipes | Middle East Soups

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Morocco

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Saudi Arabia

Ramadan Iftar Dish from Saudi Arabia - Al Kabsa

Ramadan Iftar Dish from Syria - Chicken Fatteh

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Kuwait

More on Ramadan Iftar Recipes

Ramadan Iftar Time Calendar Toronto Canada

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for Toronto, Canada.

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).


RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)
Toronto Schedule




Enjoy Ramadan Tastes from Around the World
Here on the Ramadan Blog!


Ramadan Iftar Recipe from India

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Singapore

Ramadan Iftar Recipes | Middle East Soups

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Morocco

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Saudi Arabia

Ramadan Iftar Dish from Saudi Arabia - Al Kabsa

Ramadan Iftar Dish from Syria - Chicken Fatteh

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Kuwait

More on Ramadan Iftar Recipes

First Day of Fasting Ramadan 2009

Ramadan Reflections contributed byWorldly Muslimah

The first day of fasting during the month of Ramadan has always been the hardest. The usual routine is no longer the same. The morning hot drink (typically tea or coffee) - the first item of ingestion into the body - that perks one up from slumber is no longer there.

The lethargy sets in as the body struggles to stay awake unused as it is to the sudden caffeine-deprivation.

The first few hours of the morning are definitely the hardest.

Then the daily activities ensues and you push yourself through the day. And somehow the time flies by.

Before long it is time to break the fast.

But that is not merely what the fast is supposed to be.

We are also supposed to increase remembrance of God through prayer and reflection.

But the hunger pangs of the first day of Ramadan made this near impossible. However, the body will get used to the fasting in a few days and so will be able to focus on the main goal of Ramadan - to further strenghten the relationship between Man and Creator.

"When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided."

~ [al-Baqarah, 2:186]

"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint."

~ [al-Baqarah, 2:183]

Ramadan Iftar Recipe | Chicken Fatteh Iftar Dish from Syria

The fatteh is a favorite Ramadan iftar dish in Syria. The fatteh dish is simply shredded bread soaked in stock (broth) with different types of topping. There are different types of fatteh dishes around the Middle East.

The Syrian fatteh is made of three main layers (reminiscent of the lasagne without tomato sauce and cheese). The base layer is made of shredded bread soaked in chicken stock, the middle layer consists of the main ingredient (the chicken; but also can be chickpeas, aubergines, or even kidney ) and finally a yogurt and tahini sauce topping. are the most common roughly in that order.

Since the bread is soaked in stock, it can become too soggy if it is prepared well in advanced. The key to a good fatteh is to assmble it moments before it is served. This will prevent the dish from getting too soggy.

Note: Do not use pita bread for the fatteh dish. Instead use Arabic Flat Bread.


Ingredients:

Arabic bread 3 standard size (small)
Chicken thighs 4
Chicken stock 500mls
Onion cut into quarters
Yogurt500 g
Tahini 4 tbs
Garlic 2-3 cloves
Lemon
Salt
Pepper
Parsley chopped 4 tbs
Pine nuts
Paprika

Method:

1) Start by cooking the chicken and making your stock. Wash the chicken thighs, cover with water and bring to boil skimming the surface till totally clear. Add the onion and salt and pepper, turn down the heat and let simmer slowly for 45 - 60 min. When cooked, remove the chicken and let cool down. Strain stock and return to very low heat till ready to use it.

2) Shread your Arabic bread into one inch pieces.

3) Remove the chicken meat from the bone and shred to bite size.

4) Add yogurt, tahini, crushed garlic, squeeze of lemon and salt and mix together to make your topping.

5) Put the bread and the chicken in a deep bowel. Add one third of the yogurt sauce and the stock and mix together. Spoon the rest of the yogurt topping and spread evenly on top.

6) Garnish with parsley, roasted pine nuts and paprika and serve immediately.

Enjoy Ramadan Tastes from Around the World
Here on the Ramadan Blog!


Ramadan Iftar Recipe from India

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Singapore

Ramadan Iftar Recipes | Middle East Soups

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Morocco

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Saudi Arabia

Ramadan Iftar Dish from Saudi Arabia - Al Kabsa

Ramadan Iftar Recipe from Kuwait

More on Ramadan Iftar Recipes

List of Mosques (Masjids) in Boston Massachusetts

Allston Brighton Islamic Center
15 North Beacon St. Brighton, MA,
Brighton, MA 02134, USA
Phone: 617-783-2229
Fax: 617-277-5447
Email: ALLSTONBRIGHTONISLAMICCENTER@YAHOO.COM

Masjid Yusuf
41 Quint Avenue,
Allston, MA 02134, USA
Email: themasjid@gmail.com

ISBCC Mosque
100 Malcolm X Blvd.
Boston, MA 02120

Islamic Society of Boston
204 Prospect St, Cambridge,MA 02139,
Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
Phone: 617-876-3546
Email: info@isboston.org
URL: www.isboston.org

Society for Islamic Brotherhood
724 Shawmut Avenue,
Boston, MA 02119, USA
Phone: (617) 442 2805
Email: mosquepraisallah@aol.com

Mosque for the Praising of Allah
724 Shawmut Ave,
Boston, MA 02119, USA
Phone: 617-442-2805
Fax: 617-445-2345
Email: mosquepraisallah@aol.com
URL: www.mosquepraiseallah.com

MIT Muslim Prayer Room
MIT, Religious Activities Center,
Building W11, Room W11-110,
40 Massachusetts Ave,
Cambridge, MA 02139, USA

ISLAMIC CENTER OF RINDGE AVENUE,CAMBRIDGE
379/380 RINDGE AVENUE,
Cambridge, MA 02140, USA

Masjid Al-Noor
28 Circuit St,
Boston, MA 02126, USA
Phone: 617-427-1542

Islamic Center of New England
470 South Street,
Quincy, MA 02169, USA
Phone: 617-479-8341
Fax: 617-471-9526
Email: icne@icne.net
URL: WWW.ICNE.NET

Duas to Recite During Ramadan

You may recite duas in any language you are comfortable with. Allah accepts all of your supplications in whatever language you speak to Him. But based on tradition of the Prophet, the following are specific duas that has been said by Muslims for centuries. These are recommended duas to say during Ramadan.

When beginning the fast- Suhur

وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتَ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri ramadan

I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan
[abu Dawud]


When breaking the fast- Iftar

اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّى لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ امنْتُ [وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ] وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ

Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa 'ala rizq-ika aftarthu

O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance
["wa 'alayka tawakkaltu" is quoted in some books of knowledge - but not all, hence it is in brackets]
[abu Dawud]

ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَ ابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ، وَ ثَبَتَ الأجْرُ إنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ

dhahabadh-dhama'u wab-tallatil 'urūūqi, wa thabatal arju inshaAllah

The thrist is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah [Ta'ala] Wills
[abu Dawud 2:306]

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي

Allaahumma inni as’aluka birahmatika al-lati wasi'at kulli shay’in an taghfira li

O Allah, I ask You by Your mercy which envelopes all things, that You forgive me.
[a du'a that Abdullah ibn Amar (radiAllahu anhu) used to say when breaking his fast - as reported by Ibn abi Mulaykah (radiAllahu anhu)]

When someone offers you food when you are fasting and you decline

When you are invited to eat, then reply to the invitation. if you are fasting, then invoke Allah's blessings (on your host), and if you are not fasting then eat
[Muslim; 2:1054]

Upon reaching month of Rajab and Sha'ban

When the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) sighted the moon of Rajab (two months before Ramadan) he used to pray to Allah in the following words:

اَللّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِى رَجَبَ وَ شَعْبَانَ وَ بَلِّغْنَا رَمَضَان

Allahumma barik lana fi Rajab wa Sha'ban wa ballighna Ramadan

O Allah! Make the months of Rajab and Sha'ban blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadan (i.e. prolong our life up to Ramadan, so that we may benefit from its merits and blessings)
[Narrated by at-Tabarani and Ahmad]

When you are fasting, and someone is rude to you

اِنَّيْ صَائِمٌ ، اِنِّيْ صَائمٌ

Inni sa'iimu, inni sa'iimu

I am fasting, I am fasting
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Fath al-Bari of Al-Asqalani; 4:1-3, Muslim; 2:806]

Upon Sighting of the new Moon

اللَّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، اَللَّهُمَّ اَهِلَّهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالآَمْنِ وَلاِيمَانِ ، وَالسَّلَامَةِ وَالاِسْلَامِ ، وَالتَّوْفِيقِ لِمَا تُحِبُّ رَبَّنَا وَتَرْضَى ، رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ

Allahu Akbar. Allahumma ahillahu 'alayna bil-amni wal-imaani, was-salaamati, wal-Islami, wat-tawfeeqi lima tuhibbu Rabbana wa tardha. Rabbuna wa RabbukAllahu

Allah is the Greatest. O Allah bring us the new moon with security and faith, with peace and in Islam, and in harmony with what our Lord Loves and what pleases Him. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah
[at-Tirmidhi 5:504, ad-Darimi 1:336]

On Lailatul Qadr - the Night of Power

Aishah (radhiya Allahu Ta'ala anha), that she said: "O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?" He said 'Say

اَللَّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ ، تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي

Allahumma innaka 'affuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni' "

O Allah You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.
[at Tirmidhi]

Source: http://www.islamawareness.net

Ramadan 2009 Calendar

Ramadan 2009 Calendar and Schedule for North America

The following is the Ramadan 2009 Calendar for Boston, Massachusetts.

Note: Fajr means both Fajr Athan (Azan) and Imsak (starting fast) and Maghrib means both Maghrib Athan (Azan) and Iftar (breaking fast).

RAMADAN 1430 HIJRAH (2009 C.E.)
Boston Schedule




For a list of Massachusetts mosques (masjids) and Islamic Centers, please click here.

Ramadan 2009 Announcement in Mecca (Makkah) Saudi Arabia

It has been announced that Muslims in Saudi Arabia will begin the holy month of Ramadan on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Most of the Arab countries and Iran will also follow suit and start their fasting on the same day.

This will apply to countries of Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

Because Islam follows a lunar calendar, Ramadan begins each year about 11 days earlier; its start is traditionally determined by the appearance of the new moon.

After the crescent was failed to be spotted on Thursday night, the first possible sighting, it was expected on Friday, with fasting to begin at daybreak on Saturday.

Muslims in Libya, as well Shiite Muslims in Lebanon, who had determined the lunar month according to astronomical calculations, had begun their fasting on Friday, August 21, 2009.


Ramadan Kareem

Ramadan Mubarak


Hilal Sighting Committee in India

Dua for Starting Ramadan Fasting

Dua To Recite on Day 1 of Ramadan

You may make a dua (supplication to God) in any language you please.

And there is no need for any specific duas.

However, we have come across recommended duas that would be good to say to mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan.

We post the following Ramadan dua so that it would be easy for you to start off your Ramadan.



ALLAH, on this day make my fasts the fasts of those who fast (sincerely), and my standing up in prayer of those who stand up in prayer (obediently), awaken me in it from the sleep of the heedless, and forgive me my sins , O God of the worlds, and forgive me, O one who forgives the sinners.

When is Ramadan 2009 in United States?

It has been announced by the Fiqh Council of North America that the start of the holy month of Ramadan 2009 will be on August 22, 2009.

Although Ramadan is always on the same day of the Islamic calendar, the date on the Gregorian calendar varies from year to year, since the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar and the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar.

This difference means Ramadan moves in the Gregorian calendar approximately 11 days every year. The date of Ramadan may also vary from country to country depending on whether the moon has been sighted or not.

Please refer to the announcement by the Fiqh Council of North America below:

RAMADAN & SHAWWAL 1430 (2009)

First day of Ramadan will be Saturday, August 22, 2009 and Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, September 20, 2009, inshaAllah.

"O you who believe, fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (learn) self-restraint." Qur’an 2: 183

The Fiqh Council of North America recognizes astronomical calculation as an acceptable Shar’i method for determining the beginning of Lunar months including the months of Ramadan and Shawwal. FCNA uses Makkah al-Mukarram as a conventional point and takes the position that the conjunction must take place before sunset in Makkah and moon must set after sunset in Makkah.

On the basis of this method the dates of Ramadan and Eidul Fitr for the year 1430 AH are established as follows:

1st of Ramadan will be on Saturday, August 22, 2009
1st of Shawwal will be on Sunday, September 20, 2009

Ramadan 1430 AH:
The astronomical New Moon is on Thursday, August 20, 2009 at 10:01 Universal Time (1:01 pm Makkah time). Sunset at Makkah on August 20 is at 6:47 pm local time, while moonset at Makkah is at 6:46 pm local time (1 minute before sunset). Therefore the following day Friday, August 21, 2009 is not the 1st day of Ramadan. First day of Ramadan is Saturday, August 22, insha'Allah. First Tarawih prayer will be on Friday night.

Eid ul-Fitr 1430 AH:
The astronomical New Moon is on Friday, September 18, 2009, at 18:44 Universal Time (9:44 pm Makkah time). On Saturday, September 19, 2009, sunset at Makkah is 6:20 pm local time, while moonset is at 6:36 pm local time. Therefore, first day of Shawwal, i.e., Eid ul-Fitr is Sunday, September 20, insha'Allah.

May Allah (swt) keep us on the right path, and accept our fasting and prayers. Ameen. For more detailed information, please visit: www.fiqhcouncil.org or www.moonsighting.com

Sincerely,
Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi,
Chairman

Credit Cards--- The Halal Way

The concept of halal credit cards in Islam - does such a thing even exist in the first place when paying interest is not acceptable?

Credit card companies charge money through a variety of means. The credit card companies get their money in the form of interest rates, annual fees, transfer balance transaction fees, foreign cuurency transaction fees or late fees.

Different credit card companies may offer multiple credit cards promotions throughout the year. When a credit card company is looking for a new customer, they offer excellent promotions to hook the customers. The credit card companies may offer special promotions to enroll new customers. The special promotions may involve low interest rates to zero interest rates that are only for a specific duration, typically for a few months to a year, depending on type of credit card.

A Muslim may avoid paying interest (usury) by applying for a new credit card, and take the money for the introductory period which does not carry any interest rate.

At a zero interest rate, the debt on the credit card would not grow at all, and the large amounts of money spent in servicing the debt could be used to pay it off.

There is actually a system a Muslim can use to take advantage of the zero-interest credit card offers without going against the Islamic rules of not paying interest.

For more information on how a Muslim can actually do this in a halal way, please email us with a request for more information at ramadanblog [at] gmail.com or subscribe to us via Feedbuner in the box below this article.

Read what the Holy Quran has said about Interest:
Those who devour usury will not stand except as stands one whom the devil by his touch has driven to madness. That is because they say: Trade is like usury: but Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury.... Allah will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of charity, for He loves not any ungrateful sinner.... O you who believe, fear Allah and give up what remains of your demand for usury, if you are indeed believers. If you do it not, take notice of war from Allah and His messenger, but if you repent you shall have your capital sums; deal not unjustly, and you shall not be dealt with unjustly. And if the debtor is in difficulty, grant him time til it is easy for him to repay. But if you remit it by way of charity, that is best for you if you only knew.
[Surah al Baqarah, verse 275-280 ].

Ramadan Iftar Recipes | Saudi Iftar Dish - Al Kabsa

Saudi Arabia, the third-largest country in Asia, constitutes about four-fifths of the Arabian Peninsula.The people of Saudi Arabia are descended from tribes of nomadic sheep and goat herders and maintain many of the traditions of their past. Traditional food like dates, fatir (flat bread) and the al kabsa (rice and meat dish) are still eaten by Saudis today.

The Al Kabsa is considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia. It is featured on many tables for iftar during Ramadan. If you are planning your iftar menu for your family and friends, you might want to consider making the Al Kabsa. It is very easy to make and would make an excellent iftar dish that everyone would relish and remember!


Saudi Arabia Ramadan Iftar Dish

Photo Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/somah/348376306

Ingredients

2 1/2 kg lamb, large cubes
4 cups basmati rice
1/2 kg carrots, peeled and finely diced
1 green pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 kg tomatoes, peeled and diced
1 kg finely chopped onions
6-8 garlic cloves, minced
1 pinch ground cumin
1 pinch ground coriander
salt and black pepper
butter or olive oil(for frying)
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Kabsa Spice Mix

1/2 teaspoon saffron
1/4 teaspoon ground green cardamoms
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground dried limes

Sauce

2 cups water
1 beef stock cube(Maggi)
1 large onion, finely chopped
14 ounces chopped tomatoes
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 cup diced celery
salt and black pepper
2 tablespoons butter

Method

1. Fry meat until browned on all sides. Add enough water to the pot so that it covers the meat by 1.5″-2″, bring to a boil then cook gently over medium heat for 1 1/2 - 2 hours or until tender. Reserve stock & set meat aside.

2. Soak rice for 15 minutes. Drain, rise under running water then drain well.

3. Add butter to a large stock pot or casserole, fry the onion, pepper, carrot & spices. Cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until tender.

4. Add rice to vegetables in the pot, cook for 5 minutes on medium heat. Add meat stock until stock covers rice (approx 1.5″ above rice). Cover pot. Cook on low heat for 30 minutes or until tender - add a little more stock or water if rice seems to become dry.

5. Prepare the sauce.

6. Fry onion, garlic and tomato in the butter. Add tomato paste, celery, salt, cinnamon, water & stock cube. Cook on medium heat until slightly thickened and celery is tender.

7. Serve in a large dish or on a platter. Place the rice first, top with meat & garnish with pine nuts. Serve the sauce in a jug with a spoon.

Saudis enjoy the al kabsa with a hot sauce called ’shattah’

Saudi Ramadan Iftar



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