Ramadan, the nineth month of the Muslim calendar, was prescribed by Allah (the most Compassionate, the most Merficul) to all able Muslims for fasting from sunrise to sunset. Fasting or refraining from food, drink and sex during the day for a whole month helps to free the human soul from its shell or prison (the body), softens the heart and opens our minds and eyes to our real responsibilites in this life and our final destination in the next life. At the end of the month you will notice a very big positive difference in the Muslim's character and concern to his fellow man and surroundings. Hunger and thirst help us think on a higher level by awakening many of our feelings and senses. Ramadan has proven to make us better human beings in this life by balancing the body, mind and soul. It is a once in a year chance for us to strengthen and nourish our souls in this unique activity of worship and gratitude for the gifts of food and drink that we take for granted.

During the month of fasting we sharpen our awareness of Allah's gifts to us and greatly enhance our ability to watch our actions and speech before we do or say anything. It reminds us to thank and show gratitude to our creator for the gifts we enjoy everyday. When we refrain from eating and drinking we understand the benefits of food and drink and realize how generous our lord is in providing us these basic needs and we understand the suffering the needy in this world go through from lack of food everyday.

Better health is another gift that comes with fasting but gaining the pleasure of Allah should be the main purpose of our fast so that it will be accepted by Him. The Prophet (May Allah's peace and mercy be upon him) said that many people fast but only get hunger and thirst out of it. While fasting we must guard our hearing, eyesight and speech from displeasing our lord the most high. If somone is to quarel with you, just tell them you are fasting and forgive them. When we break the fast after sunset we must not overeat during the night.

It is recommended that we finish reading the Quran throughout the month of Ramadan.