Everyone is curious about when Ramadan 2024, the precious ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, will occur. This year, Ramadan 2024 is expected to start on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, avoiding food, drinks, or any other physical needs. This month is a time of self-discipline, spiritual growth, and acts of charity towards those in need.
The Spiritual Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is a month of spirituality during which Muslims strengthen their connection with Allah through prayer, recitation of the Quran, and acts of worship. Muslims strongly believe that during this holy month, Allah opens the gates of heaven, and the gates of hell are closed, making it an opportune time for spiritual growth and seeking forgiveness from God. The holy book Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during Ramadan; therefore, this month holds special significance as a time for reciting and reflecting upon the Quran. A common goal among Muslims during Ramadan is to finish reciting the entire Quran. Ramadan also emphasizes the importance of charity to help those in need.
A Spiritual Journey
Ramadan begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib). Fasting serves Muslims as both a physical and spiritual detox, allowing them to cleanse their bodies and souls. Fasting also enables Muslims to exercise self-discipline and control over their desires and impulses. This discipline extends to many other facets of life, including controlling one’s emotions and actions, and goes beyond the act of fasting alone. Throughout Ramadan, Muslims offer extra prayers such as Taraweeh, which is offered at night following the Isha prayer. These prayers provide time for introspection, confession, and seeking pardon. The long evenings of Ramadan create a calm environment that is ideal for reflection and drawing closer to Allah.
The Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr)
Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, occurs during the final 10 nights of Ramadan and is one of the most important nights of the month. It is believed to be the evening when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received his first revelation of the Quran. On this auspicious night, Muslims fast and worship in order to receive spiritual benefits and divine favors.
THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN IS ALMOST UPON US; ONCE AGAIN, IT IS TIME TO PARTAKE IN THE FAST, PURIFY OUR MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT, AND WORK TO BECOME CLOSER TO ALLAH (SWT).
DUAA FOR FASTING
وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
Transliteration: Wa bisawmi ghadin nawaitu min shahri ramadan.
Translation: I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.
DUAA FOR BREAKING FAST IN RAMADAN (IFTAR)
اللَّهُمَّ اني لَكَ صُمتُ وَعَلَى رِزقِكَ أَفطَرتُ
Transliteration: Allahumma inni laka sumtu, wa Ala rizqika aftartu
Translation: Oh Allah! I fasted for You and I broke my fast with Your sustenance.
A Call to Spiritual Renewal and Unity
For Muslims, it is a holy and transforming period that presents opportunities for personal development, introspection, and community involvement. It is a time of increased empathy, compassion, and commitment as people strive to better understand Allah and live up to Islamic principles. it is a time when Muslims all across the world remember the value of faith, humility, and thankfulness as they embark on this spiritual journey.
