"Ramdan - Lanterns, Longings, and the Light within", An Article by Haseena Ahmed Jabri, from B Sc FSCCA III YEAR.

Ramdan - Lanterns, Longings, and the Light within.

Credits : Pinterest (Muslimaah)

 The Blessed Month of Ramadan

Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. With its arrival, a month of spirituality, discipline, and devotion begins. It is not merely a month of staying hungry — it is a complete spiritual training program for the heart, mind, and soul.

This is the month in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Therefore, Ramadan is deeply connected with the Qur’an — a time to recite it with proper Tajweed, understand its meaning, and reflect upon its guidance.

After the regular Isha prayer, Muslims offer a special prayer called Tarawih, where long portions of the Qur’an are recited in a peaceful and soothing atmosphere inside the mosque.

It is believed that during Ramadan, every good deed is rewarded many times more — multiplying blessings and encouraging kindness, charity, and forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that in this month, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and devils are chained — making it a divine opportunity for spiritual renewal.

Suhoor – The Pre-Dawn Meal

The day begins early with Suhoor (Sahar), the pre-dawn meal, usually from around 3:30 AM until 5:00 AM. After this, fasting begins and continues for about 13 long hours until sunset.

But why do Muslims fast?

Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a command from Allah. It is observed to develop taqwa — a deep awareness that Allah is watching us at all times. When a person avoids food, drink, and even wrong actions solely for the sake of Allah, it strengthens sincerity and obedience.

Fasting is not only from hunger — it is fasting from:

•  Anger
•  Gossip
•  Lying
•  Negative behavior

It purifies both the body and the soul.

Iftar – opening the Fast

At sunset, around 6:30 PM, the fast is opened. This time is known as Iftar. Traditionally, it begins with dates and fruits. There is a special joy — especially for children — in opening the fast. It feels like feeding not just the body, but also the soul. 

During these long hours of fasting, we learn:

• Patience (Sabr)
• Self-control over hunger
• Control over anger
• Empathy for those who are less fortunate
• Gratitude (Shukr) for daily blessings.

When we feel hunger, we understand the pain of those who experience it daily. This increases compassion, charity (Zakat and Sadaqah), and generosity.

This routine continues for 29 or 30 days, shaping us spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.

 Evenings of Ramadan

After Iftar, many engage in spiritual recitation and prayers until 10:30 or 11:00 PM. The last ten nights hold special importance, especially Laylatul Qadr — the Night of Power — which is described as better than a thousand months.

The nights of Ramadan are lively and beautiful. Markets remain busy as families shop for Eid. Streets are filled with smiling faces and helping hands. There is a sense of unity and generosity everywhere. Muslims around the world fast together, pray together, and break their fast together — strengthening the feeling of Ummah.

A special dish enjoyed during this month is Haleem, eagerly awaited and cherished as a highlight of Ramadan evenings.

The Joy of Eid

After 30 days of fasting and devotion, the day of Eid al-Fitr arrives.

In the morning around 8 or 9 AM, Muslims gather for Eid prayer. When we return home, the sweet aroma of Sheer Khurma fills the house, making everyone excited to taste it.

We:

• Wear new clothes
• Meet relatives and friends
• Seek blessings from elders
• Collect “Eidi” from family members

I have a bundle of friends who eagerly wait for Sheer Khurma on Eid day — it has become our sweet tradition! The True Essence of Ramadan

Ramadan is not just about fasting. It is about:

•  Strengthening faith
•  Purifying the soul
• Building discipline
•  Developing self-control
• Practicing empathy and kindness

It teaches us that real strength is not physical — it is the ability to control our desires, anger, and speech.

Ramadan transforms hunger into humility, prayer into power, and discipline into devotion.

Most importantly, it reminds us to continue these values throughout the entire year — not just for 30 days.

Every year, as the month ends, we already begin to miss it and wait eagerly for its return.