Welcome, blessed month of Ramadan!

As the crescent moon marks the arrival of Ramadan, hearts around the world fill with anticipation and devotion. This sacred month, the ninth in the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. For Muslims, it is more than just a period of abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk – it is an opportunity for deep spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and acts of mercy.

Muslims embrace Ramadan with open hearts and hands, recognising it as a month of spiritual renewal and divine mercy – blessings we deeply seek. It offers a precious opportunity for growth, reflection, and closeness to Allah.

Ramadan holds immense significance in Islam as it is the month in which the Koran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as guidance for humanity. Fasting during this month is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, an obligation for all able-bodied Muslims. It is a time to purify the heart, strengthen one’s faith, and develop a deeper connection with Allah.

Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a month of extra prayers, especially the Taraweeh prayers, which are performed in congregation at night. The last ten nights hold special value, as they include Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree), a night that is described in the Koran as “better than a thousand months” (97:3). On this night, sincere supplications and worship can bring immense blessings and forgiveness.

Fasting in Ramadan is not only about refraining from food and drink, but also about controlling one’s desires, speech, and behaviour. It teaches patience, gratitude and empathy for those who struggle with hunger daily.

By experiencing temporary deprivation, Muslims cultivate a sense of compassion and social responsibility, increasing their commitment to charity and helping the less fortunate. Fasting in Ramadan is truly a journey of self-discipline.

The fast is broken at sunset with Iftar, a meal often shared with family, friends, and neighbours. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by a nourishing meal.

The predawn meal, Suhoor, provides energy for the long hours ahead and is considered a blessed time for prayer and remembrance of Allah.

Ramadan is a month of generosity and social unity. Muslims are encouraged to give zakat (obligatory charity) and sadaqah (voluntary charity) to those in need. Many mosques and community centres host free Iftar meals, ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial status, can partake in the blessings of Ramadan. Ramadan is a time to exercise charity and build community building and bonding.

The sense of unity in Ramadan extends beyond families to the entire global Muslim community (Ummah). The shared experience of fasting and worship fosters a spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, reminding believers that they are part of something greater than themselves.

Backbiting and gossip is always discouraged in Islam and is definitely a repugnant act during Ramadan. Scholars liken it to eating the flesh of one’s brother, as the Koran states: “And do not backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would detest it!” (49:12)

Thus, fasting while backbiting is compared to breaking one’s fast on forbidden flesh, rendering the fast devoid of true benefit.

Ramadan is also a time that encourages spiritual growth; a time to detox the soul by engaging in acts of worship such as reading the Koran, making dua (supplication), and seeking forgiveness. It provides a unique opportunity to reflect on one’s actions, character, and purpose.

Many take this time to let go of bad habits, strengthen their faith, and strive to carry the lessons of Ramadan into the rest of the year.

When we obey Allah, the benefit is solely ours; it does not increase Allah in any way. However, fasting – especially during Ramadan – is a clear command from Allah. There is a Hadith that specifically states fasting is for Allah. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) narrated: “Allah said: ‘Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting; it is for Me, and I shall reward for it.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)

As well, the Koran does command fasting in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183-184): “Oh you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain taqwa (God-consciousness).” (2:183)

“ … And to fast is better for you, if you only knew.” (2:184)

As we welcome this blessed month, let us embrace its teachings with open hearts and a renewed commitment to faith, compassion and self-improvement. Ramadan is not just about what we give up, but about what we gain – spiritually, emotionally and communally.

Ramadan Mubarak! May this month bring peace, mercy, and countless blessings to all.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam