أهلاً رمضان - Welcome Ramadan! - Taalhuis Amsterdam

أهلاً رمضان – Welcome Ramadan!

This month the month of Ramadan, a good reason to dedicate a blog to the words related to this holy month.

 

Ramadan (رمضان) is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is the holiest month
for Muslims around the world. During this month, Muslims focus on spirituality, self-discipline, gratitude, and helping others. Because the Islamic calendar follows the moon, Ramadan moves about 10–11 days earlier each year in the regular (Gregorian) calendar. This means Ramadan falls in all seasons.

Why Is Ramadan Important?🕌

Ramadan is very special because Muslims believe that the Holy Qur’an (القرآن الكريم)  the holy book of Islam, was first revealed during this month to the Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago.

For Muslims, this makes Ramadan a sacred time for reading the Qur’an, praying more, and strengthening their relationship with Allah الله (God).

 

What Is Fasting (صيام)?🌅

The main practice of Ramadan is Siyam (صيام), which means fasting. Every day from dawn until sunset, Muslims do not:

– Eat food

– Drink water

– Smoke

– Engage in negative behavior like arguing or gossiping

Fasting begins before sunrise with a meal called Suhoor (سحور).
At sunset, Muslims break their fast with a meal called Iftar (إفطار).

Many people traditionally break their fast with dates and water, followed by a larger meal with family or friends.

Fasting is not just about staying hungry or thirsty. It teaches:

– Patience

– Self-control

– Empathy for people who are less fortunate

– Gratitude for everyday blessings

Children, elderly people, travelers, pregnant women, and those who are sick are not required to fast.

 

Prayer and Community🕌

During Ramadan, Muslims pray more than usual. In addition to the five daily prayers, many attend special night prayers at the mosque called Taraweeh (تراويح). These prayers create a strong sense of community, as people gather together after breaking their fast.

Ramadan is also a time when families and friends come together often, especially at Iftar.

 

Charity and Kindness (زكاة)💛

Charity is a very important part of Islam, and even more so during Ramadan.

Muslims give Zakat (زكاة), which is an obligatory form of charity given to those in need. There is also Zakat al-Fitr (زكاة الفطر), which is given before the end of Ramadan to make sure everyone can celebrate the holiday.

Beyond money, people are encouraged to:

– Volunteer

– Share meals

– Help neighbors

– Practice forgiveness and kindness

 

The Last Ten Nights🌙

The final ten days of Ramadan are considered especially important. One of these nights is called Laylat al-Qadr (ليلة القدر), or “The Night of Power.” Muslims believe this night is especially blessed, and many spend extra time praying and reflecting.

 

The End of Ramadan: Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر)🎉

Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days. It ends with a joyful celebration called Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر).

On this day, Muslims:

– Attend a special prayer in the morning

– Wear new or nice clothes

– Visit family and friends

– Exchange gifts

– Share festive meals

Eid is a celebration of completing the month of fasting and spiritual growth.

Ramadan Mubarak everyone🌙

 

Your Ramadan vocabulary:

1. Ramadan (رمضان)
Meaning: The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when Muslims fast.

2. Qur’an (القرآن)

Meaning: The holy book of Islam.

3. Siyam (Fasting)( صيام)

Meaning: Fasting from dawn until sunset during Ramadan.

4. Suhoor (سحور

Meaning: The pre-dawn meal before fasting begins.

5. Iftar (إفطار)

Meaning: The meal eaten at sunset to break the fast.

6. Taraweeh ( تراويح)

Meaning: Special night prayers performed during Ramadan.

7. Zakat ( زكاة)

Meaning: Obligatory charity given to those in need.

8. Zakat al-Fitr (زكاة الفطر)

Meaning: Charity given before the end of Ramadan so everyone can celebrate Eid.

9. Laylat al-Qadr (ليلة القدر)

“The Night of Power,” a very blessed night in the last ten days of Ramadan.

10. Eid al-Fitr (عيد الفطر)

Meaning: The celebration that marks the end of Ramadan.

11. Ramadan Kareem ( رمضان كريم)

Meaning: “Generous Ramadan,” a common greeting wishing someone a blessed and generous month.

12. Ramadan Mubarak  ( رمضان مُبارك)

Meaning: “Blessed Ramadan,” a common greeting used during the month.

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