MUSLIMS in Ghana have joined other Muslims across the globe in observing the Ramadan fast, which began last Saturday.During the 29 or 30 days of fasting, Muslims are required to abstain from food, water and any sexual acts from sunrise to dusk.
Muslims eating fruits and taking assorted drinks in groups, mainly close to mosques, at sunset is one of the scenes to observe in Muslim-dominated communities in Accra and other parts of the country during the fasting period.
Optional prayers are also observed in congregations after the Isha prayers (the last of the two night prayers).
Significance of fasting
The Ramadan fasting period is an opportunity for Muslims to get rid of undesirable habits, imbibe and increase fortitude and patience, empathise with less-fortunate members of society who suffer from hunger due to poverty and keep Satan and his promptings away.
Muslims are required to show kindness and generosity to their brothers by way of giving out food and money.
They are also expected to restrain their anger, exhibit tolerance and promote peace among Muslims and between Muslims and adherents of other religious faiths.
Muslims do extra prayers during the last 10 days of the Ramadan fast, with optional prayers at night.
It is during the last 10 days that the Night of Blessing, which is said to be worthier than 1,000 months in the sight of Allah, falls.
The Ramadan fasting period is a happy period for Muslims, as they receive more rewards, blessings and forgiveness from Allah.
Muslims feel closer to their Maker, Allah, during the fasting period as they engage in more prayers and supplications.
Allah’s instructions
Allah says in the Qur’an: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard your-selves (against evil.)” — Surah 2, verse 183.
“... And that fast is better for you, if you know.” — Surah 2, verse 184.
