This year, the fasting month
of Ramadhan is from
*9th July 2010 – 7th 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.
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