Ramadan Kareem ( رمضان كريـم )
After living in Bahrain for 18 years among the Muslim brothers, I have learned a lot from their culture especially the way they pray, give alms, and most importantly fasting in the month of Ramadan. As a Christian, I also do fast in Lent, before Easter for 40 days abstaining from the most liked items. Hindus also do fasting in certain days.
Most devout Muslim fast regularly in the Holy month of Ramadan. On such days they do not eat or drink at all.
Fasting in Sanskrit is called upavaasa. Upa means “near” + vaasa means “to stay”. Upavaasa therefore means staying near God, meaning the attainment of close mental proximity with God
Why do we fast?
A lot of our time and energy is spent in procuring food items, preparing, cooking, eating and digesting food. Certain food types make our minds dull and agitated. Hence on certain days man decides to save time and conserve his energy by eating either simple, light food or totally abstaining from eating so that his mind becomes alert and pure. The mind, otherwise pre-occupied by the thought of food, now entertains noble thoughts and stays with God. Since it is a self-imposed form of discipline it is usually adhered to with joy Also every system needs a break and an overhaul to work at its best. Rest and a change of diet during fasting is very good for the digestive system and the entire body.
Control the senses
The more you indulge the senses, the more they make their demands. Fasting helps us to cultivate control over our senses, sublimate our desires and guide our minds to be poised and at peace.
Fasting should not make us weak, irritable or create an urge to indulge later. This happens when there is no noble goal behind fasting.
If you are ill, like diabetics and other illness you need to consult your doctor regarding the fasting.
Ramadan Mubarak ( رمضان مبارك )to all my Muslim brothers
