Doha: The Sheikh Abdulla bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) held an educational lecture in English entitled “Why Ramadan,” as part of its efforts to bolster religious values during the holy month of Ramadan and consolidate Islamic ethics.
According to Qatar News Agency, the lecture was delivered by preacher Ismail Menk and attracted approximately 2,700 individuals at the Msheireb Eid prayer ground in Doha. The event aimed to provide insights into the wisdom behind the imposition of fasting on Muslims.
Menk explained that Ramadan is an annual observance for Muslims to renew their commitment to worship and engage in various Islamic rituals, such as reading the Holy Qur’an. He noted that the holy month teaches patience, as it is practiced through fasting from dawn to dusk.
Ramadan serves as an intensive course in diverse forms of worship, strengthening the connection with Allah and revitalizing faith in the unique spiritual atmosphere of this holy month. Menk added that Ramadan is intended to transform lives for the better, discouraging negative behaviors and encouraging adherence to Islamic precepts as outlined in sacred Hadiths.
Furthermore, Menk addressed the negative habits that sometimes overshadow the spiritual essence of Ramadan, turning acts of worship into mere routines. He stressed that fasting is intended to transform a Muslim’s entire life, including daily habits. Ramadan is prescribed to increase awareness of the value of time and life, elevating individuals above desires, achieving the piety intended by fasting, and enhancing self-worth while striving for divine approval.