FAQ- Ramadan
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- What does Ramadan mean?
Ramadan is an old Arabic word meaning ‘scorching heat’. It is the ninth month of
the Islamic calendar where all Muslims are required to fast.
- What is the Islamic calendar?
The Islamic calendar is a lunar one. That means that it follows the cycle of the
moon. The Islamic calendar moves back 10 days every year, meaning that Ramadan always
falls at a different time each year.
- What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is a time where Muslims all over the world do not eat or drink between dawn
and sunset. It is a time of increasing good deeds and avoiding anything that displeases
Allah. It is also a time for us to thank Allah for all the blessings He has given
us and make dua for those that are not so fortunate.
Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic Calender. It is the month that Allah first
revealed the Qur'an to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (salAllahu alayhi wasalam).
In this month, the whole Qur'an was sent down to the first sky from Lauhi Mahfouz.
During the month of Ramadan, the gates of Jannah (Paradise) are opened and the gates
of Jahannum Hell-fire are shut.
- How long is Ramadan?
Ramadan is usually between 29 and 30 days each year, depending on the new moon being
sighted.
- What is Fasting?
In Ramadan, Muslims don't eat or drink anything at all from dawn to sunset.
This is called sawm and is one of the Pillars of Islam.
Muslims get up very early in the morning, before the sun rises and have Suhur. You
can have your usual breakfast at this time. After this, you do not eat or drink
until it is Iftar time, when the sun sets.
Since Muslims come from just about every place in the world, different families
have different foods they like to eat for their iftar or Suhur meal.
Our beloved Prophet used to break his fast with dates, that is why many Muslims
eat dates during Ramadan.
- Do I have to fast?
All Muslims that have reached puberty, male and female, must participate in fasting
during Ramadan. People who are elderly, sick or pregnant do not have to fast, however
they may make up the days they have missed or pay to feed a poor person equivalent
to these days.
- Can I fast for half the day only?
If you are young and have never fasted before, try to fast until recess or lunch
time. This is a great way to get your body used to fasting, so that you may fast
the entire day when you are older. Remember to speak to mum or dad before you try
this!
- What happens if I am forgetful and I eat whilst I’m fasting?
If you have had something to eat or drink accidentally whilst you are fasting, don’t
worry! You may continue fasting for the remainder of the day. You don’t need to
make up a day for doing this.
- Can I brush my teeth when I’m fasting?
Yes, you may brush your teeth as long as you do not swallow any toothpaste or water!
- Can I visit the dentist during Ramadan?
Yes, you may have your teeth cleaned and fixed whilst you are fasting, as long as
you are careful not to swallow any blood or medication during this time.
- What about injections? Can I still have those whilst I’m fasting?
Injections for immunization are sometimes given at schools throughout the year.
It is ok for you to have an immunization shot without breaking your fast, as it
is not nourishing your body in any way.
- Can I go swimming during Ramadan?
Yes, it is ok to swim during Ramadan, as long as you are confident that no water
will enter your stomach through your nose or mouth.
- Can I wear lip gloss in Ramadan?
Yes, you can wear lip gloss to moisten your lips when you are fasting, as long
as you do not swallow it.
- Can I rinse my mouth out when I’m fasting?
There is nothing wrong with rinsing your mouth when you’re fasting, as long as you
do not swallow any water after doing so.
- If I have asthma, can I still use my puffer when I’m fasting?
Yes, you can still use your puffer during Ramadan without breaking your fast. This
is because it is simply compressed air that you are inhaling into your lungs.
- Can I bite my nails when I’m fasting?
Biting nails or skin, swallowing any substance (even if it is not food) is not allowed
when fasting. However, swallowing something accidentally does not break your fast.
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