Islam is one of the most popular and admirable religions in the world. Nearly one-fourth of the world's population today is Muslim. Over the years Islam has spread immensely, bringing in its fold people from east to west and north to south. However, in one special month Muslims from everywhere join together for special worship. The month is jam-packed with virtues and blessings. It's an important feat which takes place every year during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Fasting in Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, every capable Muslim around the world fasts for 29-30 days. During these days, we should remember the poor and needy who don't have any food or water, but still fast during Ramadan. We should also try and read as much Qur'an as we can, as this is the month in which the Qur'an was revealed. The Qur'an was revealed in Laylat-ul-Qadr, which is the most blessed night. It is better than 1,000 months, which equals 83.22 years. Worshipping just that one night is equivalent to worshipping Allah for a 1,000 months. It is as if you have been standing day and night in worship for a 1,000 months. Just imagine the reward you would get! There are many more virtues and benefits of Ramadan and fasting as well. Throughout the year, we eat three meals a day. But sometimes the food doesn't get digested properly. While we are fasting, our bodies get rid of toxins and are able to digest the food properly, which gives us full nutrition. During the month of Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are open, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained up. Even though Muslims may find fasting very difficult, Allah tests us to see whether we obey Him or not. Fasting shows our dedication and commitment. It also shows that we respect our Lord. In return our Lord gives us reward in this world and in the hereafter. There are, however, some people who need not fast due to special reasons. So, who are exempted from fasting? • Children who are under the age of puberty • Sick people whose health is severely affected by fasting. They have to make up the fasts after Ramadan when they become healthy. • Travelers. But they too have to make up the fasts after Ramadan. Fasting goes on for a month and there's no stopping us from doing good deeds. Just a simple smile is all it takes to earn reward. It truly is that simple. Children can contribute Islamic articles during Ramadan by sending their write-ups and pictures to [email protected] with “Islam page” in the subject line. __
