Ramadhan

This year, the fasting month of Ramadhan is from

*9^th July 2010 – 7^th August 2013

*(Subject to sighting of the new moon)

 Background

Ramadhan is the month of fasting when the Quran (Muslim Holy Book) was revealed to the prophet Muhammad. For Muslims it is a special month of spiritual reflection and revitalisation, when they try to spend as much time as possible in prayer and other ritualistic exercises.

Fasting

·      During Ramadhan fasting is compulsory for all adult Muslims and they must refrain from drinking and eating during daylight hours.

·      Fasting lasts from dawn to sunset. This may have implications for patients. 

·      Those fasting need a meal before the break of dawn and another after sunset. 

Exempt from Fasting

·      All those who are ill (Physical or mental illness) or frail.

·      Very elderly or mothers, who are breast-feeding.

·      Lactating women who have concern about their own, or their child’s health.

·       Are exempt from the obligation, some may nevertheless insist on fasting.

·      As a result, the nursing and medical staff may have to discuss the administration of medicines.

Prayers

·      Alongside the customary and obligatory prayers, which are said five times a day, there are additional prayers and other spiritual exercises, which are mostly carried out at night. In addition, during the last ten days of the fast there are further prayers and spiritual exercises to be held.

·      For the purpose of prayer, water for ritual ablution may be required.

·      Some patients may ask for a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran or a Ramadhan prayer-timetable. 

Eid-ul-Fitr

The end of the month is marked by the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr. This is one of the most important festivals in the religious calendar. It is also a great social and family occasion that begins with a compulsory congregational prayer in a mosque or any other suitable place.