What is Ramadan ?
What do Muslims do in it?
What are the religious activities that Muslims practise in this month?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Arabic calendar in which Qu'ran was first revealed to the prophet,
Mohammed, in the Arab peninsula. The name Ramadan is an Arabic word which denotes scorched ground,
Shortness of rations (food allowance), and intense heat. Besides, it has the actual night in which it was revealed, called "Leilit el Qadr" or "The night of power", in the last ten days. The following month is Shaw'al in which they celebrate a festival or feast of the breaking of the fast, called "Aeid el Futre".
All Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and sexual relations from dawn until sunset. They fast and pray the daytime for the sake of god in order to become better Muslims to him.
'Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful" [ El baqrah - 002.185]
The idea of the fasting in it is for Muslims to be taught self-restraint, self- discipline, and humility. Furthermore, it reminds them of the poor who couldn't earn their living, or who couldn't find their daily food and beverage.
" Narrated Sahl: The Prophet said, "There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe fasts will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, 'Where are those who used to observe fasts?' They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it." [ Bukari -
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 120]
However, Muslims could have different activites in that month. Probably, most muslims read the qur'an and pray more than usual during the month, while others prefers to participate in social activities; visiting relatives, going to charity, and giving money to the poor.
Further reading:
http://www.usc.edu/schools/college/crcc/engagement/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan
