Ramadhan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month of the year for Muslims. It is important because it is believed to be the month in which the first verses of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by Allah.
During Ramadhan, Muslims observe a month-long period of fasting from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. Fasting during Ramadhan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundational religious obligations for Muslims.
Fasting is a way to purify the soul, increase self-discipline, and draw closer to Allah. Muslims are also encouraged to engage in more prayer, charity, and good deeds during this month, as well as to refrain from negative behaviours such as gossiping, lying, and quarrelling.
Ramadhan is also a time for communal gatherings, with families and friends coming together for the pre-dawn meal, known as suhoor, and breaking their fast together at sunset, known as iftar. Mosques hold nightly prayers, known as tarawih, and many Muslims strive to complete a full recitation of the Quran during the month.
For Asia Aulad Ahmed from Muscat, she shared that the holy month is filled with nostalgia for her and her family.
In Oman, Ramadhan is the month everyone eagerly awaits each year. The days of Ramadhan are about prayers and fasting, but the month also brings in social elements and togetherness.
As Asia reflected, “Meeting with families is what I love the most. As the sun sets for the month of Shaban, I begin to read the Holy Quran dedicated to this month. I aim to read about eight to 10 chapters a day. I perform the Salat Taraweeh at home, but my children go to the mosque with their father.”
She added, “I also enjoy preparing food. I like experimenting with food and different cuisines. So I like to share it with our neighbours, too. Making fresh juice for Iftar is almost a habit, and being summer, watermelon is ideal.”
“My favourite childhood memory of Ramadhan is all the good moments and when we learned to read the Quran. But one distinct memory is also the aroma of custard,” she noted.
Like Asia, many believers look at the holy month with hope and prayers. It is a time for spiritual reflection, renewal, and strengthening one’s relationship with Allah and the community.
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