Wrote by Mohamed Ali Kooby
Ramadan is a Islamic holy month where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Many don't understand why Muslims practice this tradition. Here you will learn about its origins, its purpose, and how it effects your body.
Origins
In the 7th century, Ramadan was founded. During this time, the first verses of the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (saw). The first ever Ramadan was practiced in Medina, Saudi Arabia. This date also marked the second year of Hijrat. (migration in Arabic) Under paganist pressure, this small community of Muslims were forced to leave the city of Mecca and move to Medina for refuge in 622. Prophet Muhammed (saw) and his companions would have celebrated this month, fasting from sunrise to sunset, marking the first ever Ramadan.
Purpose
The main purpose of practicing Ramadan is to connect with Allah. “O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you — as it was for those before you — so perhaps you will become mindful [of Allah],” said the Quran, which basically says that fasting is mandatory for Muslims, and that they would connect with Allah doing so. The fasting also sets the mindset of a homeless man, who is starving. This helps us understand why we donate to the homeless, and why it is important to donate.
Effects
Ramadan gives the the spiritual power to reflect on your habits and behavior's both good and bad. In physical health, Ramadan gives your digestive system a break, slowly shrinking your stomach too! (that's a good thing) You lose fat, and it improves the appearance of your skin. It improves your blood flow and more!
Overall, Ramadan is a fascinating month.