Month that goes by fast?

RAMADAN

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and is traditionally a period of fasting. The faithful who observe Ramadan refrain from eating, drinking and sexual relations from dawn to dusk everyday, a lesson in patience, humility and spirituality.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims around the world. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims. Here are some key aspects of Ramadan:

1. Fasting (Sawm): The most prominent feature of Ramadan is fasting from dawn until sunset. Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sinful behavior during the daylight hours. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is intended to instill self-discipline, empathy for those who are less fortunate, and a heightened sense of spirituality.
2. Suhoor and Iftar: Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins, and iftar is the meal to break the fast at sunset. These meals often include dates, water, and a variety of foods. Sharing iftar with family and friends is a common practice, and many mosques and community centers also host communal iftar events.
3. Increased Prayer (Salat): Muslims engage in increased prayers and spiritual activities during Ramadan. Special nightly prayers, known as Tarawih, are performed at the mosque. Additionally, Muslims focus on reading and reciting the Quran during this month.
4. Reflection and Repentance: Ramadan is a time for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and seeking forgiveness. Muslims use this month to evaluate their actions, seek repentance for any wrongdoing, and strive to become better individuals.
5. Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Giving to those in need is highly emphasized during Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to give to charity, and many choose to fulfill their annual obligation of Zakat (obligatory almsgiving) during this month. Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is also encouraged.
6. Laylat al-Qadr: Also known as the Night of Power or the Night of Decree, Laylat al-Qadr is believed to occur within the last ten nights of Ramadan, with the odd-numbered nights, particularly the 27th night, being emphasized. It is considered the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Muslims believe that prayers and acts of worship on this night are especially significant.
7. Eid al-Fitr: The culmination of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast. It is a day of joy, gratitude, and festivity. Muslims gather for special prayers, share meals, exchange gifts, and engage in acts of kindness and charity.

Observance of Ramadan is one of the central tenets of Islam, and Muslims worldwide participate in this month-long spiritual journey as a means of drawing closer to Allah, strengthening their faith, and fostering a sense of community and empathy. The exact timing of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon, and it shifts by about ten to twelve days each year in the Gregorian calendar.