RAMADAN
and
THANKSGIVING

Ramadan is the ninth lunar month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims (Submitters) all over the world fast each day of this month from dawn to the sunset. During fasting, the Muslims must abstain from eating, drinking and sexual encounter. This is God’s law and stated in the Quran:

…You may eat and drink until the white thread of light be-comes distinguishable from the dark thread of night at dawn. Then, you shall fast until sunset. Sexual intercourse is prohibited if you decide to retreat to the masjid (during the last ten days of Ramadan). These are God’s laws; you shall not transgres

them. God thus clarifies His revelations for the people, that they may attain salvation. (2:187)

Contrary to what many people believe, Muhammad is not the founder of Islam (Submission). He was a follower of Abraham to whom God taught the religious duties Submitters practice today (2:128). Muhammad’s role was to deliver the Quran to mankind, and purify the message and the practices of religion distorted by the idol worshippers.
God revealed the Quran into Mu-hammad’s memory during Rama-dan in the Night of Power (17:1, 44:3, 97:1-5). It was then gradually released from his memory in

accordance with God’s will and written down by him with the help of Gabriel over a period of 23 years.

Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or traveling may substitute the same number of other days. God wishes for you conven-ience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations, and to glorify God for guiding you, and to express your apprecia-tion. (2:185)

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