Dates Are Very Popular During Ramadan
According to Islamic history, dates were a significant part of the Prophetic diet, primarily because Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to eat dates to break his fasts. Known for containing a good amount of carbohydrates and fibre, after fasting for the entire day, eating dates is a great way to get the much-needed nutrients that improve digestion and provide instant energy.
Furthermore, because they contain high levels of vitamins, potassium, and magnesium, dates are among the healthiest things to eat on the planet.
Therefore, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslims across the world eat dates to break their fasts.
The Meaning of Ramadan Is ‘Heat’
Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word ‘Ramad,’ which means ‘dryness.’ In English, Ramadan means ‘the hot month’ or ‘the month of scorching or burning heat.’ However, because the beginning of the month of Ramadan depends upon the lunar calendar, it isn’t always hot. In the context of the Gregorian calendar, the date of Ramadan moves back ten days every year.
The Practice of Fasting Started in the Year 624 CE
According to the history of Islam, the first-ever fast during the month of Ramadan was observed by Muslims two years after the beginning of the Islamic calendar. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions would fast during Ramadan to thank Allah SWT for His blessings and mercy. The practice became a Sunnah and is now observed by Muslims all over.
Allah SWT in the Holy Quran says, “Oh, you who believe! Prescribed for you is the Fast, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may deserve God’s protection (against the temptations of your carnal soul) and attain piety.”
Ramadan Is the Month of Generosity and Giving
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that, “Allah SWT said, All the works of the Son of Adam are for himself but fasting. It is for Me alone, and I shall grant a reward for it.” (Bukhari)
Ramadan is known as the month of simplicity and humility, and so the reward for giving Sadaqah and Zakat in the sacred month is immense. It not only purifies one’s wealth but softens their heart and makes them a better human being. Therefore, during Ramadan, Muslims donate as much as possible and even volunteer to raise funds and help those in need.
Eid ul-Fitr Is a Gift for Ramadan
The end of the sacred month of Ramadan is marked by the auspicious occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, a three-day festival that is a gift from Allah SWT for those observing fasts. Eid is a time for enjoying and celebrating the blessings of Allah SWT.
It’s a time to show gratitude and unity, and observe prayers and be happy. Muslims celebrate Eid by wearing new clothes, exchanging gifts, giving charity, and eating lots of scrumptious meals.
Boost Your Brain
According to a study, fasting during the month of Ramadan helps achieve mental focus as it increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factors that cause the body to produce more brain cells, ultimately improving overall brain functionality.
In addition to this, research has shown a prominent reduction in the level of the hormone cortisol, reducing stress levels both during and after Ramadan.
Detoxification of Your Body
Abstaining from drinking and eating throughout the month of Ramadan doesn’t only make a person more patient but also acts as an amazing all-natural purifier for their bodies. During the fasting period, in order to get energy, your body starts breaking down fat reserves.
This results in the burning of harmful toxins that might be present in the fat deposits. Simply put, Ramadan reboots one’s digestive system.
Helps Lose Weight and Lowers Cholesterol Levels
One of the most well-known facts about Ramadan is that it helps lose weight. However, little do people know that there are a bunch of healthy changes going on inside your body. A team of cardiologists in the UAE found that people who fast during Ramadan have a positive effect on their lipid profile.
In simpler words, fasting helps significantly reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in your blood, resulting in minimising the risk of suffering from heart disease or stroke.
By The Pilgrim
