What should you know about Ramadan?  What is the significance of Ramadan?  What are the benefits of Ramadan?
 
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. It is a month-long celebration that holds great significance for Muslims all over the world. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, and charity. During this time, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours as a way to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-discipline. The significance of Ramadan lies in its ability to bring people together and create a sense of community. It is a time when families and friends gather to break their fasts, share meals, and engage in acts of kindness and generosity towards others. One of the most significant benefits of Ramadan is the opportunity it provides for personal growth and spiritual development. By abstaining from food and drink during the day, Muslims are forced to confront their physical limitations and focus on their innerselves. This can lead to increased mindfulness, empathy, and compassion towards others.
 
Why do Muslims say Ramadan Karim?
 
Muslims say "Ramadan Karim" as a way to wish each other a generous or bountiful Ramadan. It is a way to express good wishes and blessings towards others during this holy month.
 
Why do Muslims consider Ramadan to be the Month of Mercy?
 

Muslims consider Ramadan to be the Month of Mercy because it is believed that during this time, God's mercy and forgiveness are more readily available to those who seek it. It is a time when Muslims are encouraged to show compassion and kindness towards others, especially those who are less fortunate.  Furthermore, the revelation of the Holy Quran began in the month of Ramadan, which Muslims consider to be a message of Mercy and a reflection of God’s mercy on mankind.
 
What is Zakat?
 
Zakat is an obligatory charitable contribution that Muslims are required to make each year. It is typically calculated as 2.5% of one's wealth and is distributed to those in need.  The 2.5% is calculated only on wealth that has been sitting idle for the entire year without benefitting its owner or mankind. In other words, in Islam money that is not used for an entire year to the benefit of mankind loses its value by 2.5%. Read more about PCRF Zakat eligibility and donate here.
 
Zakat Al Fitr is a special form of charity that is given at the end of Ramadan. It is intended to help those in need celebrate Eid al- Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan.
 
What is Kiffarret Ramadan?
 
Kiffarret Ramadan is a form of repentance that is practiced during Ramadan. It involves seeking forgiveness for past sins and making a commitment to do better in the future.  Kiffarret Ramadan is also paid by people who cannot fast, and should be enough in value to provide for a meal for someone who needs it.
 
What is Sadaka?
 
Sadaka is a voluntary act of charity that Muslims are encouraged to engage in throughout the year. It can take many forms, including donating money, volunteering time, or simply being kind and compassionate towards others.

We hope this information helps you understand the significance of Ramadan and inspires you to support those in need during this holy month. Let the light shine this Ramadan by contributing to PCRF’s mission, delivering life-saving surgeries, food parcels and iftars, winter clothes, shelters, orphan sponsorships, and medical treatments to countless children and families in Palestine and throughout the Middle East who would otherwise lack access to these vital relief resources. Donate today to make a lasting difference.