As the month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims across the globe are gearing up for a period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
This year, Ramadan is expected to commence on Monday, March 11, and conclude on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, culminating in the joyous celebrations of Eid al-Fitr.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, symbolizing devotion and submission to Allah. From dawn until dusk, Muslims abstain from food and drink, focusing instead on prayer, introspection, and acts of charity.
With eyes turned towards the heavens, believers await the sighting of the crescent moon, signaling the start of the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.
In Kenya, the Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein Athman has called upon Muslims to unite in observing the fast, emphasizing the importance of respecting the directives issued by religious authorities regarding moon sighting.
Sheikh Athman underscored the significance of Ramadan as a time for spiritual renewal and community solidarity.
To facilitate the observance of Ramadan, mosques in Mombasa and beyond have begun organizing special sessions and distributing Ramadan timetables to the faithful.
These timetables contain vital information regarding the start and end dates of the fasting month, enabling Muslims to plan their days accordingly.
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Additionally, local mosques are providing iftar dinners for those in need, ensuring that all members of the community can partake in the breaking of the fast at sunset. The spirit of generosity and compassion is palpable as Muslims come together to support one another during this sacred time.
While fasting is obligatory for most adult Muslims, certain individuals are exempt, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and the sick.
Nonetheless, Ramadan remains a time for all Muslims to deepen their connection to their faith and strive for spiritual growth.
As Sheikh Aboud Mohamed of Jundan Mosque reminds believers, Ramadan is not only a time of self-discipline but also an opportunity to show compassion towards those less fortunates.
Through fasting, Muslims cultivate empathy and solidarity with the marginalized, embodying the values of mercy and kindness espoused by Islam.
As preparations for Ramadan reach a crescendo, Muslims eagerly anticipate the start of this blessed month, embracing its spiritual significance and embracing its transformative power.
With hearts and minds turned towards Allah, believers embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment, united in their shared devotion to Islam.
