Ramadan – The Sacred Month Begins
Ramadan, the most sacred of months for Muslims, begins this year on June 6th. Most people think of fasting when they think about Ramadan; however, it is so much more than that for those who practice the Islam faith. Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking; it is a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-discipline and sacrifice.
The annual act of fasting during the month of Ramadan is considered one of the 5 Pillars of Islam. The other pillars, which shape a Muslim’s life, include daily prayer, charity, professing one’s faith, and pilgrimage done at least once in a lifetime. Every year, Muslims take an entire month out of their lives to observe this strict fast and rededicate themselves to worship and faith.
Each night of Ramadan, Muslims end their daily fast at sunset with a meal called iftar, literally translated as “break fast.”Â
In partnership with the Pacifica Institute and University of Puget Sound, Associated Ministries would like to invite you again this year for an interfaith iftar dinner on June 21st at UPS, from 8:00-10:00 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail Seattle@PacificaInstitute.org. Hurry, space is limited!
We hope to see you there. Until then, salaam alaikum (peace be upon you)!