[رهوفة]

Happy Ramadan to Muslims Worldwide.

On the evening of Wednesday August 11, the silver lining of the new moon announced the start of the Islamic holy month Ramadan.
Worldwide Muslims celebrate Ramadan, (the ninth month in the lunar Islamic calendar) as the time when the Holy Qur’an was revealed. The blessed month entails Muslims to fast for a specific period – dawn to dusk, abstaining from eating, drinking, and hot temper.
The month of Ramadan runs for 30 days, and encourages Muslims to strengthen and purify their character by voluntary renouncing their appetites and desires for defined hours. Virtues followed in Ramadan, include; giving to those in need and being conscious of their actions in order to develop patience and appreciation.
During this month Muslims come together at sunset to reap blessings and rewards.
Mohammed Tahir, from the Brisbane Muslim School said, “Ramadan is a time to renew your relationship with yourself, as well as adopt a spirit of fortitude and gratitude. It’s a time to open our hearts, and thank God for all he has given us”.
At the Kelvin Grove QUT Cafeteria, people gathered together breaking their fast, with sharing food and drinking water.
Arifah Rahmat, a QUT student said “Breaking fast in the company of people is a beautiful and rewarding experience. In the early hours of the morning, you don’t eat normally eat together. This event brings people together, and it feels like one big family. It gives you a chance to meet different people”.
During the month, mosques in Brisbane encourage people to join them for sessions of prayer (Taraweeh) The session are encouraged to help people free themselves from their worries and make space for God, in their busy humdrum of life.
Ahmed Menshway a member of the Gold Coast Mosque says, “Taraweeh prayers are provided as an antidote for people, when they have worries and misgivings. The act of it calms the heart and instils patience and positive thoughts”.
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid-Al-Fitr (Feast of breaking fast). The celebration gives special thanks for a successful month of Ramadan. Together families and companions rejoice; in giving gifts and sharing bounties.