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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider Significance of Ramadan

Significance of Ramadan

Published Mar 6, 2024 04:08 pm

‘TOL VIEWS

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A few days from today, the holiest month for our brother Muslims will begin. Religiously observed by Muslims worldwide, the Ramadan is a time for deeper prayer, reflection and devotion to Alah’s ways and teachings.

Islam is the second largest religion in the Philippines, hence, this period of cleansing, both of body and spirit, is likewise a journey towards holiness, peace and unity.

Ramadan has always been characterized by dawn to dusk fasting or abstinence from water and food. Muslims believe that abstinence is a way to purify the body and to be one with the sufferings of others most especially the poor. Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and other acts that gratify the body. Instead, bodily and spiritual energy is focused on reflection and examination of how one has lived and followed the teachings embodied in the Quran. This very significant month in the Islamic calendar is devoted to spiritual contemplation, heightened worship, charity, and self-transformation. 

Acts of charity, kindness and mercy also characterize the whole Ramadan celebration. Worldwide, Muslims come together not only to pray and worship, but also to do tangible acts of generosity and compassion. During Ramadan, as our Muslim brothers and sisters cleanse their bodies and spirits, they likewise offer a part of themselves to others most especially to the less fortunate through sharing their resources, their time, their talent, their energy. These acts of charity strengthens further the bonds that unite the community and encourages benevolence, generosity and service to others. 

The celebration of Ramadan culminates in the Eid al-Fitr – a feast that breaks the month-long abstinence, with this feast being characterized by thanksgiving and jubilation. 

In the Philippines, the Eid al-Fitr is usually declared a non-working holiday to express the government’s recognition and support to Muslim communities. The declaration is made to give time for our Muslim brethren to celebrate with family and friends.

Regardless of religious belief, we are all invited to always be righteous, to be kind, to be compassionate, to be generous, to be devoted in faith, to be just and peaceful. The ways by which we express our faith may vary, but we share in the same purifying journey of this world, looking forward to a life of holiness and happiness ahead.

Ramadan Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters!

May this month-long journey bring you hope and peace!

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TOL VIEWS Senator Francis N. Tolentino
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