COLOMBO ; The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan, is one of the most important and sacred days in Islam, celebrated with great enthusiasm all over the world. This month is an opportunity for self-improvement, strengthening faith, purifying the soul, and practicing patience and perseverance. One of the main practices of this month is fasting, in which people refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. But the importance of Ramadan goes beyond mere abstinence; this month is also an opportunity for worship, charity, and kindness.
During this month, people not only abstain from material pleasures, but also try to avoid bad deeds and sins and purify their souls. One of the important points of Holy Ramadan is that it prepares people to appreciate God’s blessings more and to strengthen their sense of empathy and altruism by facing the problems of those in need.
Virtues of Ramadan
The most important feature of this month is the revelation of the Holy Quran, which occurred on the “Lil at AlQadr”. God has introduced this month in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185, as the month in which He revealed the Quran for the guidance of mankind. The Lil at AlQadr, which is better than a thousand months, is an opportunity to seek forgiveness, pray, and seek forgiveness from God.
Another virtue of this month is the increase in blessings and mercy from God. This month, the doors of divine mercy are opened for the Lord servants (people) and an opportunity is provided to make up for sins and earn rewards. In addition, doing good deeds during Ramadan has double rewards, and even a smile or a small help to the needy can be very beneficial.
Another virtue of Ramadan is the increase in social solidarity. People establish a stronger connection with each other during this month by participating in worship programs, such as congregational prayers, Quranic sessions, and iftar ceremonies. Also, this month is an opportunity to practice personal discipline; Fasting requires planning and self-control, which has a positive impact on all aspects of life.
Different types of Ramadan customs
The month of Ramadan is associated with various customs in various Islamic societies. In some countries, special ceremonies such as lighting lanterns, reciting the Quran in groups, and setting up iftar tables in the streets are held.
In Iran, making vows and preparing traditional foods such as “Shoule zard”, “Ash reshte”, and “Haleem” are common customs. Also, many families go to mosques on the nights of Qadr and pray until dawn.
Ramadan in Iran: A Link Between Spirituality and Social Solidarity
Ramadan markets in Iran are particularly popular. In these markets, people come to buy special foods for this month, new clothes for Eid al-Fitr, and other Ramadan necessities. The atmosphere of Ramadan markets is one of solidarity and social joy, which all people, both Muslims and non-Muslims, benefit from.
On the other hand, the Iranian government is also considering some special facilities for users in honor of this month, such as reducing working hours for those who fast. This indicates the peaceful coexistence of religions in Iran.
The month of Ramadan is not only a month of fasting, but also an opportunity to strengthen faith, purify the soul and social solidarity.
All over the world, from the North to Africa, from East Asia to the Indian subcontinent, people with different customs and traditions celebrate this month. Ramadan is a bridge between the body and the soul, between the individual and society, and between man and God. This month is an opportunity for people to continue their lives with a new, stronger and kinder spirit after its end and to maintain the values they have learned in this month throughout the year.
Ramadan Mubarak to all the respected and believing people of Sri Lanka, especially the Muslim community of the friend and brother country of Sri Lanka
Wishing you the best and full benefit from the Holy month of Ramadan
I.R.Iran Embassy- Colombo
