Ramadan Kareem to everyone who started Ramadan over the weekend. Ramadan is the ninth and the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, a month of introspection during which Muslims observe various forms of worship throughout the month, both day and night, to practice self-restraint and piety. The initial revelations of Quran, the holy book for Muslims, were also revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in this month. Ramadan ends with Islamic holiday called Eid-al-Fitr, which is a three-day feast and celebration with loved ones.
Our many thanks to Dr. Zoheb Fazal, a Cooper hospitalist, for sharing more about fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam, which is prescribed for Muslims during this month.
“Fasting is seen as means for purification of one’s soul and provides empathy for those less fortunate. The first meal of the day is called Suhoor, which takes place just before dawn. Fast is broken at sunset, which is called Iftar. Iftars are generally elaborate meals often shared with family and friends and traditionally begins with eating a date. Type of food can vary by culture,” Dr. Fazal explains.
Wishing all those who are observing Ramadan happiness, prosperity, and abundance.