RAMADAN PRAYER GUIDE
September 24 - October 23, 2006
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According to Muslims, the month of fasting or Ramadan is a "month of blessing" marked by prayer, fasting, and charity. The focus of the month is on self-sacrifice and devotion to Allah (God). Fasting is considered a duty in Islam, and anyone over the age of twelve is expected to participate. A few exceptions are allowed, such as for those who are traveling. The type of fast prescribed during this season involves abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sundown.

Because the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, the exact date of Ramadan may vary, based on geographic location and the sighting of the moon. For much of the world, Ramadan will begin on 24 September and end 23 October. Muslims believe that during this month the first verses of the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, were given to the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad.

By the end of Ramadan, the entire book of the Qur’an is recited in mosques around the world. Life in the Islamic world changes during this season. Many restaurants are closed during the daytime; many people rise before the sun and eat a meal. Business also tends to slow down during this season. The fast is often broken by eating dates and drinking sweet drinks.

One of the most significant nights of Ramadan is the "Night of Power." Generally observed on the 27th night of the month, the "Night of Power" commemorates the night when their messenger received his first message. This night is considered better than a thousand months, because Muslims believe that angels descend to work among them until dawn. Muhammad is quoted as saying "anyone who stays awake for the Night of Power with faith and for the pleasure of Him, all previous sins will be forgiven." Muslims believe a person is "born again," or freed from sin and mistakes. This night is viewed as one of mercy, blessing, peace, guidance, and unification between the finite world and the unseen world.

The month ends with the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," or Eid ul-Fitr. As one of the most important Islamic celebrations, Ramadan is a great time of feasting and celebrating with family and friends. A sense of generosity and gratitude prevails. One of the requirements for Muslims is to share their blessings by feeding the poor and making contributions to mosques.

PRAY:

That God will reveal Himself as the Mighty One whose gift of salvation is by grace through faith.

That those preparing to observe the Night of Power will receive mercy from the One, True King of Kings and will have a life changing encounter with the All-Knowing Counselor.

That those who have fasted this month will experience a growing hunger and thirst for righteousness and that they will be satisfied with the fullness of Christ.

That thousands will end Ramadan with feasting and celebration, assured that God, the Father, has redeemed them through His Son and they are now His children.

That Christ will be recognized and embraced as Savior and Lord as the Gospel is shared with those who are more spiritually sensitive during this time.