Fasting this year has been facile for me. Now that I work hybrid, I have the time to work and take breaks to cook for iftar.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the Arabic name for the ninth month in the Islamic calendar.
It is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims and is marked by a period of fasting, considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
These are five principles which Muslims believe are compulsory acts ordered by God: the other pillars are faith, prayer, charity and making the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca (the last one is not required.)
Muslims are also encouraged to give to charity, strengthen their relationship with God, and show kindness and patience.
If you want to wish someone well, you can say “Ramadan Mubarak”, which means “Blessed Ramadan”, or “Ramadan Kareem”, which translates as “Generous Ramadan”.
How does fasting work?
Muslims have an early morning meal before dawn, known as suhoor or sehri.
They do not eat or drink anything – including water – until they break their fast after sunset for the evening meal, called iftar or fitoor.
Fasting should only be done by people who are in good health.
Some Muslims are exempt:
• Those who are sick or ill and whose health will be affected by fasting.
• Children who have not reached puberty – although some begin to practise fasting before then.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Menstruating women
• Travellers
To be continued…
Carolina Mom 