Spiritual and Health Benefits of Ramadhan

By: eASY SMAN 1 Bogor on 11:41:00 PM

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As we all know, it's now the Ramadhan month! Ramadhan is a period of fasting, reflection, devotion, generosity and sacrifice observed by Muslims all around the world. While major holidays of other faiths have largely become commercialized events, Ramadhan retains its intense spiritual meaning.

Through fasting, a Muslim experiences hunger and thirst, and sympathizes with those in the world who have little to eat every day.

Through increased devotion, Muslims feel closer to their Creator, and recognize that everything we have in this life is a blessing from Him.

Through increased charity, Muslims develop feelings of generosity and good-will toward others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said, "A man's wealth is never diminished by charity."

Through self-control, a Muslim practices good manners, good speech, and good habits.

Through changing routines, Muslims have a chance to establish more healthy lifestyle habits, particularly with regards to diet and smoking.

Through family and community gatherings, Muslims strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, both in their own communities and throughout the world.

The physiological effect of fasting includes lowering of blood sugar, lowering of cholesterol and lowering of the systolic blood pressure. In fact, Ramadhan fasting would be an ideal recommendation for the treatment of mild to moderate, stable, non-insulin diabetes, obesity, and essential hypertension. In 1994, the first International Congress on "Health and Ramadhan", held in Casablanca, entered 50 extensive studies on the medical ethics of fasting. While improvement in many medical conditions was noted; however, in no way did fasting worsen any patients' health or their baseline medical condition. On the other hand, patients who are suffering from severe diseases, whether type I diabetes or coronary artery disease, kidney stones, etc., are exempt from fasting and should not be allowed to fast.

"Ramadhan is a very special time for Muslims, but the feelings and lessons we experience should stay with us throughout the year. May Allah accept our fasting, forgive our sins, and guide us all to the Straight Path. May Allah bless us all during Ramadhan, and throughout the year, with His forgiveness, mercy, and peace, and bring us all closer to Him and to each other."

Happy Fasting, eASY!

Source: HERE with some editing, posted by RD