Ramadan Mubarak from Seoul!

Ramadan (the month of fasting for muslims) has just begun today. Fasting as one of the important pillars of Islam, consists of abstaining from food and drink from dawn (day break) to dusk (sunset). It is a time for inner reflection, devotion to God, and self-control.

Ramadan is also a time of intensive worship, reading of the Qur'an, giving charity, purifying one's behavior, and doing good deeds. One of the important goals of Ramadan is to highlight the life of the poor- who have nothing to eat & hence, make us understand what one goes through. Alms and charity is given in this month. From sighting of moon of Ramadan to that of Eid Al Fitr - every day is memorable. Quran was revealed in the month of Ramadan which accroding to the Islamic lunar calender is the 9th. month. Special prayers, extensive reading of Quran, special food for iftar (breaking fast) is the main highlight of Ramadan.  

Lailatul Qadar and the last 10 days of Ramadan are of utmost importance and overall, various cultural aspects are associated with Ramadan - makes it a special month for all muslims. When it is Ramadan, it brings back unforgettable memories of the previous years, of people (especially those who are not with us anymore), gatherings of family and friends, celebrations, shopping, excitement... My best Ramadan were the ones when I was very young and our whole family was still living under the same roof....several factor have thrown us continents apart...this hurts the most and of course, make us feel nostalgic of those good, old days.

Central mosaque (masjid) of Seoul has a modest iftar arranged for all those who want to break their fast and pray - usually coming from far flung areas of Korea and at times visitors from other foreign countries. Some restaurants also offer free iftar to its customers here in Seoul in Itaewon area. The salat /namaz times for Seoul (South Korea) during August (Ramadan) can be found here.

Wish everyone a gracious and joyous Ramadan!

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