Religion

The Real Purpose of Fasting

Before we do something, we want to know why we are doing it. What is the benefit of doing it?  You must have read and heard a lot about the purpose and benefits of fasting such as health benefits and spiritual objectives, etc.  But all of these pieces of information are based on our limited understanding and our limited knowledge.  Let’s see what Allah (SWT) tells us about the purpose

The Latest Benefit of Fasting: Stem Cell Regeneration!

Have you ever thought what a blessing it is to be born Muslim? We have literally inherited Islam; The true religion and the path to salvation. ‘But what does that have to do with stem cells?’ you may ask. Well, as Muslims we are required to fast for one month each year in the month of Ramadan and a recent study has found an amazing new benefit to fasting! The

A Surprising Relationship Between Ramadan and the Stock Market

Could you have ever imagined any connection between Ramadan and the performance of stock markets?  As surprising as it may be, a recent study revealed that in countries with a majority of Muslims, the stock market returns were nine times higher in Ramadan as compared to the other months.  The findings of this study also show that market volatility decreased during this time too.  Wow! Of all the benefits of

This Year Have a Healthy Ramadan!

The traditional Pakistani iftaar is not at all healthy. The way we eat could actually reverse the physical benefits that are derived from fasting, such as detoxification of our body and regulation of our metabolism. To achieve optimum physical benefit from fasting in Ramadan we need to include foods that are low in carbohydrates and rich in proteins, good fats and fiber. In addition, we should opt for plain water

Feeding the Poor in Ramadan – It’s You and I, Not the Government

Ramadan is the month of reflection, soul searching and refreshing our iman. It is also the month to try to save ourselves from the hellfire. One of the acts prescribed by the Prophet (SAW) for this purpose is sadaqa (charity). According to the Prophet (SAW), “Charity extinguishes the sin just as water extinguishes the fire. The man’s prayer late at night has the same effect.” The Prophet (SAW) said, “Every

Preparing for Ramadan: Focus on Food for the Soul Not the Body

“Ramadan is only a few days away and I haven’t even started preparations. What am I going to do?”  Most of us have heard similar frantic self-talk before the beginning of Ramadan.  Contrary to what one might assume, this anxiety is not about preparing the body and soul for Ramadan; it is about the Ramadan menu and all the iftari and sehri ideas and prep.  Every year before Ramadan, I

Sneaking in More TV Time During Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak! Or Ramadan Kareem! Whichever way you prefer it. Ramadan is here my brothers and sisters! Ramadan, the month of fasting, the month of piety, the month of charity, the month of forgiveness and the month of TELEVISION!!! Very few today can bear Ramadan without their faithful companion…. the cable TV! Sehri begins with guidance from a neatly trimmed beard and ends with the tick-tock of the clock on

How to Make the Most of Ramadan

The month of Ramadan is an excellent opportunity for us to strengthen our faith and purify our character. The spirit of Ramadan encourages all Muslims to better themselves. The Prophet (SAW) tells us: “When the month of Ramadan arrives, the gates of Heaven are opened, the gates of hell are locked, and the devils are chained.” [Sahih Muslim and Sunan al-Tirmidhi] The month of Ramadan brings with it reduced temptation to do wrong as