The lasting lessons of Ramadan: spiritual growth and reflection

Ramadhan, the obligatory fasting month for Muslims, falls in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Since the Islamic calendar is shorter by eleven days compared to the Gregorian calendar, the sacred month of Ramadhan moves around the Gregorian calendar, meaning it shifts each year. As a result, Ramadhan can appear at different times of the year—sometimes during winter or summer in Western countries, and in tropical regions, it may fall during the rainy or dry seasons. For Muslims, Ramadhan is a blessed month that revives their faith and spirit in Islam. Long before the crescent of Ramadhan is sighted, Muslims worldwide make various preparations to reap the blessings it brings. Compared to the past, the knowledge and benefits of Ramadhan are now widely known, even among people of other faiths. Thanks to the internet and social media, Ramadhan has been shared and promoted within the global community. The practice of Ramadhan by Muslims in the West has inspired many non-Muslims to experience fasting in the same way. Going through the experience of fasting during Ramadhan has even led some non-Muslims to embrace Islam. Since Muslims are now in the final segment of the fasting month, this article serves as a reflection and reminder of the valuable lessons learned during Ramadhan. Below are some of the ways in which Muslims have revived their commitment and spirit toward their religion: