Ramadan has officially begun in South Africa as Muslims all over honour Islam’s holiest month of fasting as they reflect and grow during the month.
And as the dates depend on the appearance of the crescent moon, Ramadan in South Africa lasts from Saturday, April 2 to Sunday, May 1.
What is Ramadan and why is it celebrated?
For all Muslim adults, fasting from dawn to sunset is mandatory during Ramadan. And only those who are acutely/chronically ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, menstruating or diabetic are excused from fasting.
Thus, throughout Ramadan, those who participate are only allowed two meals in a day – the predawn meal known as sehri or suhur, and the nightly feasts are called iftar.
But of course, Ramadan is not only focused on fasting. It is also a period of introspection, personal and communal prayer in the mosque and reading of the Quran. And it is believed that it was during the month of Ramadan that the Quran was revealed as a “guidance for mankind”.
And for those who live the month out with fasting, prayer and faithful intention, it is believed that all past sins are forgiven.
The important message
Ramadan comes with important messages and life lessons that are not only applicable in the month of April. It also symbolises the act of giving and abstaining from all bad deeds while staying humble. This way it is believed people will grow closer to Allah as well as their loved ones.
Reza Mahomed, a resident in Durban explained why Ramadan is important in his community and why he believes people should continue to honour it.
“That is just a part of Ramadan though. For me and other members of the faith, this month is a reminder of our true purpose and being charitable to those in need. It is about unity and spiritual reflection. It is a reminder of how we should be living our lives as Muslims and the importance of doing good unto others and the environment,” he said.
Mahomed further elaborated on how his community hopes that the lessons focused on during Ramadan will eventually become habits.
“Another pillar of our faith is charity or zakat. During this month we are encouraged to give to those less fortunate and in doing so we form a closer bond with our community. While Ramadan is only one month of the year, our hope is that many of the lessons, good habits and the renewed sense of spirituality carries on into the rest of the year as well,” he said.
So to all those celebrating – Ramadan Mubarak and Ramadan Kareem!
