AIFD Wishes Muslims a Blessed Ramadan and a rewarding and spiritually fulfilling month of Fasting

Today, we begin the daily commemoration of our Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

We wish all Muslims a ‘Ramadan Kareem’ and a blessed and rewarding month of fasting and self-reflection.

During this, the ninth month of our lunar calendar and the holy month of fasting, we are all reminded of the truly important elements of our lives and how we can strengthen them. We are reminded of our good health, our family, a renewal of faith, and our personal relationship with God.

We are reminded of the sanctity and safety of this great nation which we call home and gives us the comfort and freedom to engage in every facet of the humble spiritual renewal that is Ramadan.

These are the values we all hold dearly, but may often come to take for granted.

Foremost, the fast of Ramadan is a symbolic equalizer for all Muslims from every part of humanity. From the very rich to the very poor, the fortunate or the less fortunate, during this month we find common goodness in the challenge and rewards of the daily fast. At the end of every day of fasting, the hunger and thirst we share is a deep humility that allows us to share a common appreciation for the gifts we have at home and in this nation.

The daily hunger and thirst and recitation of scripture is a remembrance of the cornerstone of free will and discipline in faith as much as it is a sign of health. In hunger and in thirst, we are all equal. It is an equality that not only crosses social, economic, and cultural boundaries, but religious, political and geographical as well. It is a reminder of our shared humanity with every individual around the world.

It is with these thoughts and prayers in mind that we wish Muslims a blessed Ramadan and a rewarding and spiritually fulfilling fast this coming month beginning today.

Blessings,

Zuhdi

M. Zuhdi Jasser, M.D.

Founder and President

American Islamic Forum for Democracy