SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE:

Muslims worldwide have embarked on one of the holiest months in the Islamic Lunar calendar — Ramadan, the fasting month.

From pre-dawn until dusk, Muslims will observe nearly 14 hours without food or drink for the entire month.

Abstaining from food and liquid is the fast’s basic physical practice for Muslims, but Ramadan plays a more significant aspect in their lives.

Muslims welcome Ramadan as a chance to become closer with God. It is a monthlong marathon of spiritual revival, reflection and change.

The fast is a reminder of our daily actions. Are we conducting ourselves as God wants? Are we treating ourselves and others with respect, kindness and fairness? Are we performing honestly at work and school? The month becomes an exercise period to polish our behavior and attitude into a positive lifelong practice.

To volunteer to give up food and liquid for the day is a form of accomplishment and confidence. It shows we have the ability to discipline and control our bodies and actions, paving the way for a healthier lifestyle.

Traditionally, the month calls for more reading of the Koran, with an emphasis placed on reading the Koran entirely. A concerted effort is made to pray and attending religious services at mosques, volunteer time, give to charity and care for the less privileged.

One of the greatest aspects of Ramadan is it unifies the family. Many Muslim families gather nightly for the breaking of the fast meal. The sweetness of the meal is seeing everyone together.

Ramadan began this year on Sept. 1 and concludes Sept. 30. The day after its conclusion is called “Eid al-Fitr,” which means the festivity of the breaking of the fast period. The day entails performing the Eid Prayer and religious services at mosques, paying the obligatory alms, exchanging of gifts and visiting family and friends.

IMAM SAYED MOUSTAFA AL-QAZWINI leads the Islamic Educational Center of Orange County.