Today, the holy month of Ramadan commences around the world until 4th June 2019. This religious celebration is observed by Muslims worldwide, and unites our community in and around Surf Maroc. As it’s such an important celebration for us, and we’d like to share a little extra info about this sacred time.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, which lasts 29/30 days depending on sightings of the crescent moon. The Islamic religion recognises this month as the time when Allah (God) revealed the Quran to Prophet Mohammed, and is one of the Islamic Five Pillars.
Beyond being hungry
The main thing people know about Ramadan is fasting from food and liquid from sunrise to sunset. Muslims also abstain from smoking and sexual activities in this time too. A pre-fast meal, Sahor, is eaten before sunrise and first prayers (salat). Then break fast with Fotour meal after sunset prayers, traditionally eaten with families and community. However, there is so much to Ramadan than not eating or drinking during the day…
During the holy month, many Muslims see this time as a chance to be reborn and start anew. Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, to allow those observing to look-inward and find ways they can improve themselves and their devotion. As well as the above, Muslims fast from sinful speech, thoughts and behaviour. Instead there’s an increase in the practice of good deeds, self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice and feelings of empathy for those who are less fortunate. It is also encouraged to be generous and to give to charity (which is another pillar of Islam).
It is said fasting redirect the heart away from worldly activities, with the purpose of cleansing the soul and freeing it from harmful impurities. The feeling of hunger and thirst is their reminder of the reason for Ramadan, and to encourage them to feel spiritually renewed by the end.
Ramadan at Surf Maroc
In recognition of Ramadan, we’re also raising money for Zero Hunger this month in our weekly Yoga Community Class. This nationwide Moroccan charity works with restaurants and food suppliers to help ensure nobody that’s homeless goes hungry. Please see more at www.zero-hunger.org about this wonderful cause. You can also check our All The Good Things page to see more about the causes we support.
For all those celebrating Ramadan in Morocco and around the world, we wish them Ramadan Mubarak!
