Ramadan is one of the most sacred and deeply meaningful times of the year for me as a Muslim, and today, I want to tell you a little more about this empowering time!
First of all, this is a month dedicated to reflection, spirituality and connection with Allah, where we believers seek the purification of our soul, body and mind.
In fact, this period is designed to strengthen our faith, discipline, acts of charity, as well as the relationship of brotherhood with the other Muslims who are part of my journey.
Therefore, it is my obligation and pleasure to bring to you today a little of what my practices are like during Ramadan, which range from fasting, prayers and preparation for the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Ramadan and Fasting
For Muslims, Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is a “month of fasting,” but for us, the meaning is much deeper than simply not eating or drinking from dawn to dusk.
In fact, it is a practice that teaches me patience, gratitude and empathy for those who know what it is like to feel hungry or live with problems around them.
In fact, when I start my fast right after Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal), it is like a daily rebirth.
Each morning is a new chapter in my relationship with Allah, for all those who recognize and feel how essential this can be.
Sometimes it is very difficult, especially when it is very hot, when a fasting day lasts more than sixteen hours.
The feeling of relief after fulfilling this obligation is indescribable!
When it comes time for Iftar (the meal that breaks the fast at sunset), I feel a deep gratitude beyond words! It is a time of celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on how grateful we are for the gift of life!
What is the best part of Ramadan?
Honestly, one part of Ramadan that I particularly enjoy is the spirit of togetherness it promotes.
Gathering with friends and relatives at Iftar means strengthening all those bonds during meals and prayers, something that we often don’t get to do as often throughout the year…
It's like we're all connected by a greater purpose!
Additionally, the night prayers, known as Taraweeh, are one of the highlights of the month.
After all, praying in congregation, with people I love and who understand my journey of faith, listening to the recitation of the Quran, fills me with peace and makes me feel even closer to Allah.
Preparing for the trip to Mecca
Talking about Mecca is touching on one of the deepest dreams of any Muslim!
Above all, the pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is one of the five pillars of Islam and a life-changing experience!
And although I have not yet had the opportunity to perform Hajj, I have already started preparing myself for this spiritual journey – which is not just physical or financial, but also emotional and spiritual.
First of all, it is very important to understand the requirements for Hajj:
- It is obligatory for every adult Muslim who has the physical and financial means to perform it. Therefore, I have been planning my finances, saving to cover the costs of the trip, which include flights, accommodation and other expenses.
- Furthermore, it is essential to be in good health., since Hajj requires physical exertion, such as walking long distances and facing crowds.
- It is important to know that each of these rituals carries a deep meaning, which must be understood in order for them to be performed correctly.
I learned things like Tawaf (walking around the Kaaba), Sa'i (walking between the mountains of Safa and Marwa) and Wuquf (standing on Mount Arafat, etc.).
In fact, each of these rituals has a deep meaning and needs to be understood properly to be performed correctly.
So, videos, readings and conversations with people who have already performed Hajj have helped me feel more prepared for each new day! In addition, spiritual preparation is also essential.
In this regard, I have been striving to strengthen my faith, increase my prayers, and practice patience and humility!
What do I like to do most?
For me, the live broadcast of prayers in Mecca is one of the most exciting moments of the year, something I never miss!
With the help of technology, I can now follow the prayers taking place at the Holy Mosque, Masjid Haram, in real time, from anywhere in the world! It’s incredible to be able to feel this connection, even from a distance.
Seeing thousands of people gathered together, all facing the Kaaba, is very moving, even from a distance! Another great way to share this sacred experience is to watch the pilgrimage live.
In other words, during Hajj, millions of Muslims from all over the planet gather in Mecca itself to perform these rituals.
Seeing this crowd, dressed in simple, identical clothing, symbolizing equality before Allah, reminds me of the universality of Islam. It is a lesson in humility and brotherhood that transcends borders and differences.
Furthermore, watching the live broadcasts helps me better understand the rituals and prepare for when my turn comes.
Seeing pilgrims performing Tawaf, walking between Safa and Marwa, or praying on Mount Arafat fills me with hope and determination!
It's as if each image is a reminder of the purpose of life: to worship Allah and seek His mercy, always!
Living Ramadan is a privilege!
All these experiences and meanings so deeply rooted in my heart and in the hearts of the people I love, who participate in Islam, make me absolutely certain that living this is a blessing, a privilege!
Therefore, I invite you to learn more about our faith and culture, because with each Ramadan we experience, we learn something new, which enriches our existence.
You can check out more stories like mine on Youtube, or start reading our Holy Quran, through free apps on Play Store or App Store, to know the roots of our faith. Alhamdulillah!