What Muslims do during Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. It is during this month that Muslims observe the Fast of Ramadan. Lasting for the entire month, Muslims fast during the daylight hours and in the evening eat small meals and pray. It is a time of worship and contemplation. A time to strengthen family and community ties.The Month of Ramadan is also when it is believed the Holy Quran “was sent down from heaven, a guidance unto men, a declaration of direction, and a means of Salvation”.it’s a month of restraint for the whole body. They do not listen to those who swear or look at obscene or unlawful things. Overall, they work to avoid smoking, sex, food, evil thoughts and acts, and more. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims usually give to charity, a practice called Zakah al-Fitr. This is in connection to the usual practice of giving to charity, known as Zakat, The daily schedule for a Muslim participating in Ramadan can be hard on the body. They will wake early (before sunrise) to eat. As soon as the sun comes up, they must refrain from both food and drink (including water) until the sun sets, and if Ramadan happens to fall during the summer, this makes for a long day Once the sun goes down Ramadan observers break the fast in a group sitting. The fast is broken by a large feast prepared throughout the day. At times going from famine to feast can be difficult since the body goes from one extreme to another.During Ramadan, it is common for Muslims to go to the Masjid (Mosque) and spend several hours praying and studying the Quran. In addition to the five daily prayers, during Ramadan Muslims recite a special prayer called the Taraweeh prayer (Night Prayer). The length of this prayer is usually 2-3 times as long as the daily prayers. Some Muslims spend the entire night in prayer.

On the evening of the 27th day of the month, Muslims celebrate the Laylat-al-Qadr (the Night of Power). It is believed that on this night Muhammad first received the revelation of the Holy Quran. And according to the Quran, this is when God determines the course of the world for the following year.When the fast ends (the first day of the month of Shawwal) it is celebrated for three days in a holiday called Eid-al-Fitar (the Feast of Fast Breaking). Gifts are exchanged. Friends and family gather to pray in congregation and for large meals. In some cities fairs are held to celebrate the end of the Fast of Ramadan.

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