Duties and Festivals in Islam

This section explores the duties and festivals in Islam. In Islam, the observance of duties and the celebration of festivals are integral parts of maintaining a disciplined and spiritually fulfilling life. Despite the guidance provided by Islam, staying close to Allah can sometimes be challenging, and the religious practices, particularly during special times such as Ramadan, help Muslims strengthen their faith and commitment to God.

Sawm: Fasting During Ramadan

Sawm, the obligation of fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It requires Muslims to abstain from eating, drinking, and other physical needs from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). Fasting is not just a physical act; it is a means of spiritual purification and self-discipline, bringing Muslims closer to Allah by reinforcing control over desires and increasing mindfulness of God's presence.

The fast is broken at sunset with a light meal, typically starting with dates or other sweet foods, followed by a larger meal. This meal is called iftar, a communal event enjoyed by Muslims after a long day of fasting.

Who is exempt from fasting during Ramadan?

Certain individuals are not required to fast, as it may pose a difficulty or harm. These include:

• Children under the age of 12 – as fasting is not required until they reach puberty.
• Elderly individuals – for whom fasting might be too physically demanding.
• Those with medical conditions – such as diabetes or other illnesses that would make fasting unsafe.
• Pregnant or menstruating women – who may be exempt from fasting, as it could harm their health or well-being.
• Travellers – Muslims who are travelling long distances may also be exempt from fasting.

Making up missed fasts

If a Muslim misses any days of fasting during Ramadan due to illness, pregnancy, menstruation, or travel, they are encouraged to make up for these missed days later, after Ramadan has ended, by fasting an equivalent number of days.

What is involved in fasting?

Fasting during Ramadan is not just about refraining from food and drink. It is a time for both physical and moral self-discipline. Muslims strive to avoid sinful thoughts, actions, and behaviours, making it a period of spiritual growth and reflection. The Qur'an teaches that fasting is a means of drawing closer to Allah and seeking forgiveness. In addition to abstaining from food and drink, Muslims avoid activities such as listening to music, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations during the daylight hours.

Ramadan is also a time for increased religious devotion. Muslims make an extra effort to read and reflect on the Qur'an, attend the mosque more regularly, and engage in charitable acts, helping those in need. Ramadan encourages empathy, as Muslims experience hunger, fostering a deeper understanding of the hardships faced by the less fortunate.

The Night of Power: Laylat al-Qadr

One of the most significant events during the month of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power. This night marks the occasion when the Angel Jibril (Gabriel) first revealed the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. It is considered the holiest night of the year and holds immense spiritual significance in Islam. According to the Qur'an, this night is "better than a thousand months" (Qur'an 97:3), making it an exceptionally auspicious time for Muslims to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

Laylat al-Qadr is observed during the final ten days of Ramadan, and many Muslims dedicate the night to prayer, worship, and reflection. They strive to remain awake throughout the night, praying, studying the Qur'an, and seeking Allah's forgiveness. Muslims believe that on this night, Allah grants forgiveness to those who sincerely repent, making it a time of deep spiritual renewal.

The Importance of Reading the Qur'an during Ramadan

Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims make a conscious effort to read the entire Qur'an from start to finish. The Qur'an is believed to have been revealed during this month, so it is considered especially significant for Muslims to engage with the sacred text during this time. In many mosques, the entire Qur'an is recited during Taraweeh prayers, which are special prayers offered by Sunni Muslims after the Isha prayer each night during Ramadan. This tradition allows Muslims to listen to the recitation of the Qur'an, gaining a deeper understanding of its message.

The practice of reading and reflecting on the Qur'an during Ramadan is not just about completing the text; it is about growing closer to Allah by contemplating His guidance, laws, and wisdom. Muslims use this time to strengthen their faith and enhance their understanding of the Islamic teachings.

Eid al-Fitr: The Festival of Breaking the Fast

At the conclusion of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast. This festival marks the end of a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Eid is a time of joy and celebration, where families and communities come together to break the fast, exchange gifts, and show gratitude to Allah for the strength and patience displayed during Ramadan.

Eid begins with a special prayer, Salat al-Eid, which is offered in congregation at mosques or in open fields. Muslims also give Zakah al-Fitr, a form of charity, before the Eid prayer, ensuring that everyone, including the poor and needy, can join in the festivities and enjoy the holiday.

Eid al-Fitr is a time of thanksgiving to Allah for the spiritual benefits gained during Ramadan and for the opportunity to begin anew with a clean slate, having sought forgiveness for past sins. It is a celebration of community, unity, and the joy of worshipping Allah together.

The duties and festivals in Islam, particularly the observance of Sawm during Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, serve to strengthen a Muslim's faith and commitment to Allah. They offer a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, reflection, and compassion. These practices allow Muslims to deepen their connection to God, increase their empathy for the less fortunate, and foster a sense of unity within the global Muslim community.