Ramadan in Redmond

Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, starts on June 6th.[S1] . For 30 days able bodied Muslims all over the world will be fasting from dawn to dusk in this month. The believers will be observing Ramadan in personal, social, and spiritual ways. . A student may seem particularly sleepy to their teacher because of changes in their daily schedule. A co-worker may choose to stay at their desk and read rather than joining others for lunch because they are fasting. A woman may be seeking those in need to feed them because she will not be fasting. A businessman may close down his business midday on Friday because he wants to attend the weekly Prayer service. All members of a family arrange their schedules to celebrate the holy day at the end of Ramadan, Eid ul Fitr, on July 6[S2] .

This month of self-discipline and celebration honors the Book of the Gracious God. The Holy Qur’an in 2:186 says, “The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was sent down as guidance for mankind with clear proofs of guidance and discrimination. Therefore, whosoever of you is present at home in this month, let him fast therein. But whoso is sick or is on a journey, shall fast the same number of other days. Allah desires to give you facility and He desires not hardship for you, and that you may complete the number and that you may exalt Allah for His having guided you and that you may be grateful.” The guidance sent down includes the universal prescription of fasting and details about what to do if fasting is too much of a strain. Thus a pregnant woman or a nursing mother may plan ahead to feed needy people during Ramadan rather than fast from 3:30 am to 9:30 pm. Children too young for fasting are taught to read the Holy Qur’an and to be kind. They adjust to simpler meals and napping during the day for joining the congregational Prayers at the mosque may reduce their nightly rest time.

Diversity abounds within this unifying structure. Muslims by name or heritage may not even believe in God yet enjoy some cultural aspects of Ramadan such as the Iftari parties. These community meals after sundown attract more attention than the more pious actions. Muslims quietly fasting, reading Qur’an, making congregational Prayers, and giving alms do not often make headlines. Yet they may receive the ecstatic treasure of nearness to God, especially those who retreat to the mosque the last 10 days of Ramadan. By the Grace of God, Redmond benefits from the many local Muslims who will be taking advantage of this sacred time.