In 2012, Turkish singer-songwriter Maher Zain wrote a song entitled “Ramadan,” dedicated to the holy month of fasting observed annually by Muslims worldwide.
“Love is everywhere
So much peace fills up the air
Ramadan, month of the Qur’an
I feel it inside me, strengthening my iman (faith)”Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of profound spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. It is a period dedicated to fasting, prayer, introspection and charity, where individuals strive to connect with their Creator and purify their hearts and minds. This month of spiritual renewal is also woven with cultural traditions, community gatherings and acts of kindness that transcend religious boundaries.
Lanao del Sur Sultan Aminoden D. Guro, Al Hajj, the regional director of LTFRB RFRO-3, shared in a phone interview with Daily Tribune that the core practice of Ramadan is fasting from dawn until dusk, abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs.
“This act of self-discipline is not just a physical hardship but a journey of self-reflection and empathy. By experiencing hunger and thirst, Muslims connect with those less fortunate, cultivate gratitude for their blessings, and strengthen their spiritual resolve,” he explained.
Ramadan begins with the sighting of the first moon. When it starts, Muslims begin fasting, praying, and gathering together. Ramadan is a holy month in Islam, marking the period when the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). In addition to the obligatory five daily prayers, there is also the Taraweeh prayer, which is prayed after the Isha prayer during nighttime.
Sultan Guro said, “Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and Allah personally rewards worshippers in the Hereafter for fasting.”
Different ways to observe Ramadan’s fasting period can be seen worldwide. In Dubai, for example, the Dubai Police move the locations of their "Iftar" cannons, which signal the breaking of the fast. In addition to fixed cannons in prominent areas, a mobile cannon tours 17 locations, bringing this tradition closer to local communities.
In rural areas, Muslims shout out loud between 3 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. with the word “Sawool” (signifying the time to eat before dawn) to wake up neighbors to eat before sunrise breaks. Those near mosques often hear the same announcement through public address systems.
“Beyond the physical fast, Ramadan encourages deep inward reflection. Muslims dedicate time to reciting the Qur’an, engaging in prayer, and seeking forgiveness for their shortcomings. This introspection fosters a sense of humility and strengthens their connection with Allah. It’s a time for self-improvement, breaking bad habits, and cultivating compassion for others,” Sultan Guro said.
“The spirit of Ramadan extends beyond individual practices. It is a time for strengthened community bonds. Family members gather for evening meals, sharing laughter and stories, deepening their connections. Mosques become hubs of activity, hosting special prayers, lectures, and community gatherings. This collective experience fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, creating a sense of belonging and support within the Muslim community,” he added.
Hadji Boy Arabi, a community leader in Zamboanga City, told TDT that Ramadan also emphasizes generosity and charity. “Muslims are encouraged to give to those in need, sharing their wealth and resources with the less fortunate. From distributing food and clothing to sponsoring orphanages and charitable projects, acts of kindness become a defining feature of the month. This spirit of giving fosters a sense of social responsibility and builds bridges across communities,” Arabi said in the Tausog vernacular.
The celebration of Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, signifying victory over self and a renewal of spirit. It is a joyous occasion filled with feasting, sharing gifts and expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past month. The joy of Eid is not merely a personal celebration but a collective expression of unity and shared faith.
While Ramadan is a deeply spiritual practice, its impact extends beyond the religious sphere. It highlights the importance of self-discipline, empathy, and generosity. By embracing fasting, introspection, and charitable acts, Muslims find not only spiritual growth but also a sense of belonging and connection to a larger community, Hadji Arabi said.
The lessons learned during Ramadan inspire kindness, compassion, and understanding, ultimately enriching the lives of both individuals and societies.
And so, Maher Zain wrote:
“But how I wish you’d (Ramadan) be
Here with me all-year around.”
Ramadan Mubarak to all!