US extends warm wishes to Muslim communities as Ramadan begins

By
Eman Mudassar Tarar
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Ramadan
Iftar during the Holy month of Ramadan

Washington DC, 23 March 2023 (TDI): The President of the United States (US), Joe Biden and the First Lady, Jill Biden have extended their warm wishes to Muslim communities around the world as they commenced the holy month of Ramadan.

The President recognized the significance of the occasion, noting that Ramadan is a time of fasting, renewal, charity, worship, and growth.

In a statement released on Wednesday, President Biden reaffirmed the US commitment to supporting Muslim communities facing hardship and devastation, citing recent natural disasters in Turkey, Syria, and Pakistan.

Also, he emphasized the importance of upholding the universal human right to practice, pray and preach faiths peacefully and openly.

Furthermore, Joe Biden expressed solidarity with Muslims facing persecution around the world. He also called upon the international community to stand together in support of those who continue to face oppression.

As millions of Muslims across the world welcomed the holy month of Ramadan, the Biden-Harris administration extended wishes of a blessed and peaceful Ramadan to all who observe it.

For the record, Fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a central aspect of the holy month and serves as a time of self-examination and increased religious devotion.

Evidently, the President’s message serves as a reminder of the US dedicated to promoting religious freedom and respecting the diverse beliefs and practices of communities around the world.

As the holy month of Ramadan commences, the US stands in solidarity with Muslim communities and wishes all those observing a blessed and fulfilling Ramadan.

Significance of Ramadan

To mention, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. It is observed as a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection on one’s spiritual growth.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs, including smoking and sexual activity. The fast is broken each day after sunset with a meal called Iftar.

Ramadan
Depiction of Iftar culture during the month of Ramadan

It is customary to eat dates and drink water to break the fast. In addition to fasting, Muslims also engage in increased prayer and charity work during Ramadan.

For information, Ramadan commemorates the revelation of the first verses of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم), making it a significant time for Muslims to reflect on their faith and strive for greater spiritual purity.

Notably, the month is seen as an opportunity for Muslims to strengthen their relationship with Allah, seek forgiveness for past wrongs, and cultivate a sense of unity and empathy towards others.

Ramadan
Taraweeh Prayers during Ramadan

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a festival of breaking the fast, with feasts, prayers, and the exchange of gifts. The festival marks the end of the month-long fast and is a time of joy and celebration for Muslims around the world.

In a nutshell, Ramadan is an important aspect of the Islamic faith and is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide as a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and compassion toward others.

Also Read: US observes International Day to Combat Islamophobia