Menstruating Women and Ramadan

How to Make the Most of Ramadan When You Are Unable to Fast

Menstruating women are not supposed to fast during Ramadan, nor are they to do the daily five prayers, and the nightly Teraweeh prayers. During Ramadan, for many Muslims, fasting and praying are the primary activities. For a menstruating Muslim woman, losing five to six days of Ramadan can be a disconcerting event. How can a Muslim woman increase her worship of Allah when she is menstruating? Some women may even feel a certain resentment, and wonder why fasting and prayers are prohibited for them when they menstruate. Is it because they are unclean? No!

The answer is simple.

While blood itself is considered a material impurity (najas), a menstruating woman or one with post-natal bleeding is considered to be in a state of ‘ritual impurity’ (hadath). This distinction, which can be found in any basic text of Islamic jurisprudence, is not insignificant. Being in a state of ritual impurity really has no deeper connotation or implication as to a person’s worth or standing before Allah. Both men and women are at times in this state, and ritual purity (tahara) and ritual impurity are interesting concepts that are not always connected with what we would normally consider ‘filthy’ or ‘clean.’ For example, one can perform tayammum, literally dusting one’s hands and face with earth, and then legally be considered in a state of ritual purity. There is even a hadith in which ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrates that at a time when she happened to be on her menses, the Prophet (peace be upon him) rested his head on her lap in a moment of repose, and even recited from the Qur’an. If she were truly impure in the ordinary understanding of the word, would our noble Prophet have rested on her in such a way?

Being in a state of ritual impurity, therefore, does not necessarily mean one is ‘unclean’ in the conventional use of the term. Accordingly, the related prohibitions do not necessarily imply that one is forced to be distant from Allah and the means of getting close to Him. If this premise were true, then all acts of worship and communication with the Divine would have likewise been made prohibited, like saying dhikr (certain formulations of remembrance) with the tongue and making du`a’ (supplication). These are very intimate spiritual actions which put a person in direct connection and communication with Allah, yet are allowed for us during this time.

All these things strengthen the idea that the restrictions during menstruation and post-natal bleeding are an expression of Allah’s mercy and kindness towards us, more so than as a type of forced estrangement from Him. They can be regarded as a dispensation, to allow us an interim for comfort and rejuvenation while in a state of physical weakness and tiredness. This may also lead us to return to salah, fasting and reading Quran with renewed energy, interest and passion.

Source: http://www.suhaibwebb.com/personaldvlpt/worship/fasting-ramadan/closed-doors-and-opened-eyes/

While menstruating Muslim women are prohibited from ritual prayer and fasting, there are many other things they can do to increase their worship of Allah during this period.

1) Dhikr - remembrance of Allah.

2) Dua - continuing to supplicate Allah

3) Online Islamic Studies to gain Islamic knowledge

4) Helping out mother/sisters in cooking iftar meals for the family or community

5) Reading the Quran

Some people argue that a menstruating woman should not touch the Quran, or recite the Quran.

So can a Muslim woman indeed read the Quran while menstruating? There are different schools of thought on this.

Some scholars including Imam Malik believe that the menstruating woman is allowed to read the Qur'an during her period. This opinion is also reported from Ahmad Ibn Hambal and is one of Imam Shafi'e 's opinions about this matter. But this is in contradiction with the majority of the scholars who forbid her to read the Quran while in her period. But we believe that the most preponderant and sound opinion is that it is lawful for her to recite the Qur'an from her memory or read from a Mus'haf provided she does not touch the Mus'haf directly. As for making Du'a, she is allowed to make Du'a while in her menstruation period anytime during the day or the night. There is no disagreement over the last issue.

Today, we have online resources to avail of. A menstruating woman can listen to Quran recitation via many online resources many with translations of the Arabic, without having to touch the actual book (Quran).

Allah knows best, and may you all have a fruitful and productive Ramadan, InshaAllah.

Should Pregnant Women Fast in Ramadan?

Every Ramadan, we get queries from pregnant women or nursing mothers on whether they should fast. The answer is actually not as complicated as one fears.

The Pregnant and Breast–Feeding Woman

If the Muslim woman is pregnant and she fears for herself or the child she is carrying, she may break her fast. Then, when her excuse has gone, she makes up for missed days of fasting. If she is wealthy, she should give charity with a Mudd of wheat along with each day that she fasts. This will be more complete for her and greater in reward.

Likewise is the ruling in reference to the breast-feeding woman if she fears for
herself or for her child and she cannot find anyone to breast feed the child (for her), or if the child will not breast-feed from anyone other than her.

This ruling is derived from the statement of Allah the Most High:

“And as for those who can fast with difficulty, they have to feed a poor person as compensation.” (The Holy Quran, 2:184)

For the meaning of “Who can fast” is that they are able to do so, however with extreme difficulty. So they break their fast and make up for the days or feed poor
person (for each day).

Important Notes:

Whoever delays in making up for the missed fasting of Ramadan without an excuse until the next Ramadan comes upon him, then he must make up of fasting. Whoever dies having fasts to make up, his responsible heir makes up for the owed fasting on his behalf.

This is due to the Prophet’s statement:

”Whoever died while having fasting due upon him, his responsible heir fasts on his behalf.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

There is also the Prophet’s statement to the person who asked him:

“Verily my mother dies and she owed a month’s fasting that she did not make. Should I make up for the fasting on her behalf?” He replied: “Yes, the debt owed to Allah has more right to be made up.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Source: FIQH OF RAMADAN :A COMPREHENSIVE AND CONCISE GUIDE ABOUT RAMADAN FROM MINHAJ ALMUSLIM

Menstruating Women Laylatul Qadr

How can Menstruating Muslim Women Observe Laylatul Qadr?

Laylatul al-Qadr (the Night of Power or Destiny) is an extremely important night for all Muslims. It is the night in which the Holy Quran, was revealed from Allah (S.W.T.)to Prophet Muhammad (P.B.B.U.H.). It is a night worth more than 1000 days (which is more than the average lifetime of a human from his birth date to his death date). It is said that Laylatul Qadr can occur on the last 10 days (odd days) of Ramadan.

Given the importance of this night, Muslims spend the last ten days of Ramadan in increased prayer and reflection. Some Muslims practice seclusion for the last 10 days of Ramadan.

But for Muslim women who are menstruating during the last 10 days of Ramadan, their observance can be affected, and some are rightly worried. For those of you who do not know, Muslim women are not allowed to pray while menstruating. So how can Muslim women attain the benefits of Laylatul while menstruating?

While it true that she cannot pray the obligatory prayers, or the qiyaam night prayers, she can still listen to the Quran, and say dua.

The prominent Muslim scholar, Dr. Muhammad Abu Laylah, professor of the Islamic Studies & Comparative Religions at Al-Azhar Univ. states:

A menstruating woman should not perform Salah (prayer) nor touch the Qur'an, but she can make du`a' (supplication) and share with other Muslims their prayer by watching and listening to TV channels or radio stations that broadcast Tarawih prayer live.

She can ask someone to put the Mushaf on a table or a stand and read from it without touching it. She can take a cassette and listen to Qur'anic recitation.

Today, Muslim women can make use online quran recitals. She should also read religious books, and remember God through dhikr.

Reading the Quran During Ramadan

Muslims Reciting the Quran During Ramadan

Muslims around the world will spend their Ramadan, not only fasting from dawn to dusk for a month, but many will also spend it reciting the Quran daily.

Majority of Muslims will attend nightly prayers called the Taraweeh, which are held at mosques. It is also possible to perform the Taraweeh prayers at home. Each night a section of the Quran (a juz: 1/30 of the Quran) will be recited during the Taraweeh prayers. By the end of the month, the entire Quran would have been recited. This prayer is performed after the last compulsory daily prayer of Isha'a.

It is not compulsory to attend the Taraweeh prayers, or to finish reciting all of the Quran during Ramadan. But there are multitude of benefits to be derived from it.

Benefits of Reading Quran

Reading Quran during Ramadan is one of the best and most virtuous of good deeds, because Ramadan is the month of the Quran. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)”
[al-Baqarah 2:185]

Jibreel used to come to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) every night in Ramadan, and study the Quran with him. Narrated by al-Bukhari, 5; Muslim, 4268.

Al-Bukhari (4614) narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that Jibreel used to review the Quran with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) once each year, and in the year in which he died, he reviewed it with him twice. From this it may be understood that it is mustahab to read Quran a great deal and to study it during Ramadan.

In another hadith, A’ishah relates that the Prophet said:
Verily the one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have TWICE that reward.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

If you require help in interpreting the Arabic in the Quran, we came across links that we recommend.

Recommended Audio Quran (with English translation):

http://www.alhudapk.com/audio-video/fahm-alquran-english/default.asp

http://www.quranexplorer.com/Quran/Default.aspx

http://www.quran.net/quran/transPickthalShakirAzhar.asp

http://tanzil.info

http://www.listen2quran.com/default.aspx

Why Do Muslims Fast During Ramadan?

This is an often asked question by non-Muslims. Non-Muslims find it strange that Muslims fast for 30 days from dusk to dawn. Fasting means to abstain from food or from certain kinds of food voluntarily, as an observance of a holy day or as a token of grief, sorrow, or repentance. Many non-Muslims even claim that it is detrimental to one's health in practice fasting.

However, fasting is not a religious tradition invented by Muslims, nor is it a practice conducted solely by Muslims. Fasting has been a religious tradition in the prophetic traditions of Judaism and Christianity too. Fasting is supposed to bring one closer to God.

Fasting Prescribed in Other Religions
Excerpted by Dr. Bilal Philips

For example:

Hindu: Fasting in Sanskrit is called upavaasa.
Devout Hindus observe fasting on special occasions as a mark of respect to their personal gods or as a part of their penance. Most devout Indians fast regularly or on special occasions like festivals. On such days they do not eat at all, eat once or make do with fruits or a special diet of simple food.

Jewish Jewish: Yom Kippur ("Day of Atonement") is the last of the Ten Days of Repentance observed on the 10th of Tishri. On that day, it is forbidden to eat, drink, wash, wear leather, or have sexual relations. In addition, prohibitions on labor similar to those on the Sabbath are in force. It should also be noted that Moses (peace be upon him) is recorded in the Torah to have fasted: "And he was there with the Lord 40 days and 40 nights, he neither ate bread not drank water." (Exodus 34:28)



For Catholics Christians, Lent is the major season of fasting, imitative of the forty-day fast of Jesus (peace be upon him). In the fourth century it was observed as six weeks of fasting before Easter or before Holy Week. It was adjusted to forty days of actual fasting in most places in the seventh century. Jesus (peace be upon him) is recorded in the Gospels to have fasted like Moses. "And he fasted 40 days and 40 nights, and afterward he was hungry." (Matthew 4:2 & Luke 4:2)

Quranic Verses on Ramadan

O you who believe! Observing the fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become the pious (God-conscious).
(Qur’an al-Baqarah 2:183)

In the month of Ramadan the Qur'an was revealed, a book of guidance with proofs of guidance distinguishing right from wrong. Therefore whoever of you is present in that month let him fast. But who is ill or on a journey shall fast a similar number of days later on. Allah desires your well-being, not your discomfort. He desires you to fast the whole month so that you may magnify Him and render thanks to Him for giving you His guidance.
(Qur’an al-Baqarah 2:185)

As can be seen from the Quranic verses above, fasting is supposed to bring one closer to God. Fasting makes us aware of God.

Dr. Bilal Philips writes about the different levels of fasting. For fasting to be effective one should attain of the levels. Fasting is not simply abstaining from food and drink from dusk to dawn, and he explains why below.

The Levels of Fasting

There are as many levels of fasting as there are facets to being human. Proper fasting should encompass all dimensions of human existence for it to have the divinely intended effect.

The following are some of the major levels of fasting:

Ritual Level:

This level of fasting requires that the basic rules for fasting be fulfilled, which are avoiding food, drink and sexual intercourse between dawn and sunset for 29 or 30 days each year. On this level, one is basically following the letter of the laws regarding fasting without particular consideration for the spirit of fasting.
It is the entrance level which must be fulfilled for the fast to be Islamically correct, but the other levels must be added for the fast to have any real impact on the fasting person. Fasting on this level alone will not benefit one spiritually, except from the perspective of submission to divine instructions, if one chooses to follow the ritual consciously and not merely according to tradition. Thus, by itself, the ritual level will not purify one of sin or atone for sin.

The Physical Level:

Fasting on the "physical" level causes the fasting person to experience the pangs of hunger and thirst – when the prophetic (Sunnah) way of fasting is observed. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to consume a very light meal before the dawn (suhur) and moderate meal (iftar) to break the fast at sunset, while scrupulously avoiding filling his stomach.

He is reported to have said, "The worst container a human being can fill is his stomach. A few morsels of food to keep a person's back straight are sufficient.
However, if his desire overcomes him, then let him eat a third, drink a third and leave a third for breathing."

The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to break his fast with a few fresh or dried dates and a glass of water just before beginning the sunset prayer.

This level allows the fasting person to experience the pangs of hunger and thirst and thereby develops sympathy in him or her for those starving and dying of thirst in other parts of the world.

Medical Benefits:

On the physical level, some chemicals in the brain that transmit messages and create feelings, called neurotransmitters, are affected by fasting. Fasting encourages the endorphin neurotransmitter system, related to the feeling of well being – and euphoria, to produce more endorphins and, in fact, makes us ‘feel' better. This is similar to the effect of exercise (but without the physical work).

It has also been noted by medical experts that fasting improves the physical health in numerous ways. For example, during the fast the body uses up stored cholesterol (fat) that is often deposited in the blood system, as well as in other fatty areas of the body. So, we find it does help keep the body firm and minimizes the danger of heart attacks.

The difference between the ritual level 1 and the physical level 2 is, a person doing only ritual fasting may eat large meals prior to beginning the fast and immediately upon ending the fast, and not feel any hunger or thirst throughout the whole month.

However, like level one, if the fasting person does not incorporate the other levels of fasting, the fast will only be physically exhausting.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Maybe a fasting person will gain nothing but hunger and thirst from fasting."

The Libidinal Level:

The sexual instinct and drives (libido) are harnessed on this level of fasting.

In these times where the media continually plays on sexual desires to promote and sell products, the ability to control these powerful desires is a plus.

Fasting physically reduces sexual desires and the fact that the fasting person has to avoid anything which could stimulate him psychologically helps to further lower the libido.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "O youths, whoever among you is able to marry let him do so, for it restrains the eyes and protects the private parts. He who is unable to marry should fast, because it is a shield."

By restraining from sexual acts, even though they are permissible, the fasting people make it easier for themselves to restrain from forbidden sexual acts when they are not fasting.

The Emotional Level:

Fasting on this level involves controlling the many negative emotions which simmer in the human mind and soul. For example, among the most destructive emotions is anger. Fasting helps to bring this emotion under control.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"When one of you is fasting, he should abstain from indecent acts and unnecessary talk, and if someone begins an obscene conversation or tries to pick an argument, he should simply tell him, "I am fasting."

So, on this level, whatever negative emotions challenge the fasting person must be avoided.

A person has to abstain from lewd conversation and heated arguments. Even when one is in the right, it is better to let that right go and keep one's emotional fast intact.

Likewise, the negative emotion of jealousy is reduced, as every fasting person is reduced to the common denominator of abstinence; no one is externally superior to another in this regard.

The Psychological Level:

This level helps the fasting person psychologically to control evil thoughts and trains him or her, to some degree, how to overcome stinginess and greed.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said,
"Allah has no need for the hunger and the thirst of the person who does not restrain himself from telling lies and acting on them even while observing the fast." [11]

In this age of immediate gratification, when the things of the world are used to fulfill human needs and desires almost as soon as they have them – the ability to delay gratification is an important skill.

What is between immediate gratification and delayed gratification is patience. During the fast, the believers learn patience – and the benefits of it.

From a psychological perspective, it is good to be somewhat detached from the things of the world.

There is nothing wrong with enjoying a good and full life – in fact, one can and should expect that.

However, it is important that people are able to detach ourselves from material things so that they do not become the most important part of their lives.

Fasting gives one the opportunity to overcome the many addictions which have become a major part of modern life.

Food, for many people, provides comfort and joy - and the ability to separate oneself from it gives the fasting people the psychological benefit of knowing that they do have some degree of control over what they do and what they do not do.

The Spiritual Level:



In order to establish this, the highest and most important level of fasting, the level of God-consciousness, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made the renewal of the intention for fasting a requirement before every day of fasting.

He was reported to have said, "Whoever does not intend to fast before Fajr (the dawn) will have no fast.

The daily renewal of intention helps to establish a spiritual foundation of sincerity essential for the spiritual cleansing effects of fasting to operate.

Sincere fasting purifies and atones for sin, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever fasts Ramadan out of sincere faith and seeking his reward from God, his previous sins will be forgiven."

He was also reported to have said, "From one Ramadan to the next is atonement for the sins between them."

Sincere fasting brings one closer to Allah and earns a special reward.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) informed that there is a gate in paradise called Rayyan reserved for those who fast and he also said, "When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are open."

Fasting is primarily between the person and God, as no one can be sure that any person is actually fasting.

Because of this intimate aspect of fasting, Allah was quoted by the Prophet (peace be upon him) as saying, "Every act of Adam's descendants is for themselves, except fasting. It is meant for Me alone, and I alone will give the reward for it."

When combined with the previous levels of fasting, this level transforms a person from within.

It restores, revives and regenerates the fasting person's spirituality and radically modifies his or her personality and character.

These are the precious products of a heightened state of God-consciousness.

Source: Excerpts from Dr. Bilal Philips

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.

The Meaning of Ramadan Kareem

Ramadan Kareem Meaning | Ramadan Mubarak Meaning

Ramadan Kareem is a greeting in the Arabic language that is used to wish happiness during the start of the holy month of Ramadan. The word Kareem means generous or bountiful in the Arabic language. Ramadan is the 9th month of the Muslim calendar. Muslims will wish each other Ramadan Kareem at the start of the Ramadan month. Also used is Ramadan Mubarak. Mubarak means blessed in the Arabic language.

The holy month of Ramadan is a very important month for Muslim because the first verses of the Holy Qur'an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad during a period of meditation and solitude in a cave near Mecca in the 7th Century. Therefore, Ramadan has been set aside for acts of worship and fasting. Muslims spend the month in meditation, prayer and abstinence from food, drinks, smoking and sexual acts between dawn and dusk.

The fast, during this month, is intended to be a challenging act taking the believer to a higher level of closeness to God. Some of the expected outcomes are cleansing of the soul by staying away from worldly pleasures, practicing self-discipline, sacrifice, generosity and charity.

Muslims believe that the gates of hell, and Satan are locked up during this month while the gates of heaves are open. Also, God forgives all previous sins of those who fast and pray sincerely during the month of Ramadan.

Muslims spend much time reading the Quran during this month. Many try to finish the enture Quran within the month, while others strive to complete the Quran several times.

Prophet Muhammad has said that:

Whosoever recites only one 'Ayat' in Holy Ramadan, he will be awarded as if he had recited the full Qur'an, in other months. Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W.)

Preparing for Ramadan 2009: Video Lectures in English

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2009!

In the continuing series on how to prepare to meet the challenges and reap the benefits of Ramadan 2009 (scroll below for links to more articles in the series), we have found a series of lectures by Sheikh Yasir Qadhi. He talks about a series of topics: why Muslims fast during Ramadan; why Ramadan is considered the most holy month in the Muslim calendar; what benefits Muslims gain by fasting; how we can better ourselves during this month; what are the minimum requirements asked of us during Ramadan, are just some of the topics addressed.

One of the interesting things he mentioned is that the gates of hell and Shaytan will be chained up during Ramadan. On other occasions, when we sin and we recognize that we have sinned, we tell ourselves that it is not we have who willingly sinned. Rather it was Shaytan who caused us to sin. In actuality, Shaytan only tempts us, or gives us suggestions, but it we who acts. But during Ramadan we have absolutely no excuse. Whatever sins we commit, we do it of our own accord. It is all us! So be wary of what we do during Ramadan. If we lose our temper, it is not Shaytan who has made us that way. It is doing of our own accord.

Allah's apostle said "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of hell and the devils are chained" [Bukhari]

The series of Ramadan lectures by Sheikh Yasir Qadhi is highly recommended. Well worth the time spent listening to it.


Part 1


Part 2


Part 3


Part 4


Part 5


Part 6


Part 7


Part 8


Part 9


Part 10


Preparing for Ramadan 2009 Articles

Muslims Around the World Prepare for Ramadan 2009

Preparing for Ramadan 2009: The Importance of the Month of Shaban

Preparing for Ramadan 2009: Setting Goals and Planning



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

More on Ramadan Iftar Recipes

Basic Facts on Ramadan

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The following are some basic FAQs on Ramadan that would be helpful to non-Muslims.

What does the word "Ramadan" mean?
Ramadan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The original meaning of the word was "scorching heat".

What is an Islamic calendar?
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar. This means that each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon. There are twelve months in the year. A lunar year is 354 days long. This is different from a solar calendar like the Gregorian calendar used in the West. The solar year lasts 365 days. Because the lunar year is shorter, each date on it falls about 10 or 11 days earlier, relative to the solar calendar, with each succeeding year.

Why do you say Ramadan is "predicted" to start on a certain date?
As I mentioned above, each month in the Islamic calendar starts with the sighting of the new crescent moon. Scientific calculations can pinpoint exactly when the astronomical new moon occurs, and can predict with some accuracy when the first crescent will be visible after this, but there are many factors that can complicate this, such as the weather. For this reason, and so that even ordinary Muslims who are not astronomers can take part, the rule is that the new crescent moon must be sighted by human observers. And we don't know exactly when it will appear until it's seen!

Does the month of Ramadan commemorate anything?
The month of Ramadan is when the first verses of the Quran were revealed. Note: The entire Quran was revealed over a period of about 23 years, starting in 610 CE and ending in 632 CE.

What is the purpose of the fast?
Quran Surah al-Baqarat verse 183 states that the purpose of the fast is to develop a quality called in Arabic "taqwa". Taqwa may be defined as, "Worshiping God as if you see Him because if you don't, He sees you." It is thus a kind of awe or God-fearingness, an awareness that God is always watching. Nobody but God and the person fasting know if that person actually observed the entire fast or secretly cheated. Thus, in order to resist the temptation to cheat, one has to remember that God is always watching and will see any lapse.

What does the fast entail?
The fast is from dawn to sunset each day of Ramadan. The fast involves refraining from food, drink, and (for married people) sexual relations during the daylight hours.

Who has to fast?
The fast is obligatory on all sexually mature adult Muslims. Those who are mentally handicapped or insane are not considered "adult" and do not have to fast. People who are ill do not have to fast if it would further damage their health; however, they should make up the missed fasts later when they become well again. Women who are pregnant or nursing are considered "ill" because fasting would harm their babies. As well, women who are having their menstrual period or who are experiencing post-partum bleeding should refrain from fasting during the days of their bleeding; the combination of blood loss and fasting could damage their health. Children who have not yet reached puberty are not required to fast. However, it is good for them to practice, and for this reason many Muslim children do fast starting from age seven or nine. A doctor should be consulted about how much fasting is safe for a growing child. People who are traveling may also break their fast if they feel that keeping it would harm them; as well, soldiers on guard duty for whom maximum readiness is a must may break their fast. In all cases of illness or fear of illness, the missed days need to be made up later.

Are there any other observances or customs attached to Ramadan?
The Muslim world has an almost staggering diversity of cultures and each Muslim country may have its own customs and rites associated with Ramadan.

Some customs that are observed by most Muslims include the following:
Recitation of the entire Quran, in imitation of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who did so. This is usually done for the community from the mosques or (in Muslim countries) on the radio; individuals or families may also get together for their own recitation.

Observance of special night vigil prayers in the late evening or middle of the night called tarawih.

Withdrawing to the mosque during the last ten nights of Ramadan for prayer and Quran recitation, which is called itikaf meaning "seclusion".

Celebration of the "Night of Power" marking the specific date of the beginning of the revelation of the Quran on the 27th of Ramadan.

As well, the fast is broken each evening with a meal called "iftar" (meaning "breaking the fast"), and the last meal in the morning before dawn is called "suhur" (meaning "morning meal").

In Muslim countries it is quite common to have feasts that last all night and run from iftar to suhur. These feasts are a time of celebration and community. There is also a special holiday marking the end of Ramadan, called Eid al-Fitr.

What's Eid al-Fitr?
The name Eid al-Fitr means "feast of the fast-breaking". It takes place on the first day of the month that follows Ramadan. There is a special salat (prayer) which the whole community should come together for. As well, those who can afford to do it should provide a small amount of food for the needy so that everybody can celebrate. The value of this gift is about $15 today. Most communities have a variety of festive celebrations and meals to mark the day.

Information: Al-Muhajabah