A sacred period for our Muslim brothers and sisters is once again here. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, a time of fasting, reflection, prayer, and community.
During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from consuming food and drink as they fast from dawn until sunset.
This fast encompasses more than just abstaining from eating and drinking.
It includes a range of behaviours and activities that Muslim faithful are expected to avoid to maintain the spiritual purity and discipline that the month demands.
We serve you this article as a reminder to our Muslim brothers and sisters.
Also, it is for others who may find it useful out of curiosity or research purposes.
Here’s a detailed look at things to abstain from during Ramadan:
1. Eating And Drinking
The most important aspect of Ramadan is the fast.
It involves abstaining from eating and drinking from pre-dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar).
This includes avoiding all food, beverages, and even smoking during daylight hours.
2. Ill Speech And Actions
It is expected of Muslims to refrain from ill speech, such as lying, gossiping, cursing, and all forms of backbiting or slander.
Ramadan serves as a time to cultivate good manners and speech, encouraging individuals to engage in positive and beneficial conversations.
3. Engaging In Sexual Activities
During the daylight hours of Ramadan, sexual activities, even between married couples are also prohibited.
The fast is not only a physical abstention but also a moral and spiritual cleansing that encompasses all aspects of human desires and behaviours.
4. Negative Emotions And Actions
Ramadan is a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth.
This entails abstaining from anger, envy, greed, and other negative emotions and behaviours.
Muslims are encouraged to practice patience, humility, and forgiveness.
They must strive to maintain a peaceful and harmonious state of mind.
5. Impure Thoughts And Deeds
Ramadan fasting is also a fast of the mind and heart.
Muslims strive to purify their thoughts and intentions, avoiding impure or harmful thoughts and focusing on positive and righteous deeds.
6. Excessive Entertainment And Distractions
This is not strictly forbidden, but Muslims are encouraged to minimise distractions.
Excessive television watching, idle internet browsing, and other forms of entertainment may divert attention from spiritual reflection and devotion.
Ramadan is a time to increase worship, Quranic recitation, and remembrance of God.
7. Overindulgence During Non-fasting Hours
Even outside the fasting hours, moderation is encouraged.
Overeating during Suhoor or Iftar can counteract the physical and spiritual benefits of fasting.
Muslims are advised to eat and drink in moderation, focusing on nourishing and wholesome foods.
8. Harmful Substances
The use of harmful substances, such as drugs and alcohol, is prohibited in Islam and is especially discouraged during Ramadan.
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The month provides an opportunity for individuals to cleanse their bodies and minds, fostering a healthier and more disciplined lifestyle.
Remember, it is one thing to know these things and it is another to strive to uphold them.
