Fasting is
also prescribed as an obligatory duty of Islam and the Muslim is obliged
to fast from sunrise to sunset during the thirty days of the month of
Ramadan. The command to fast is found in the Qur'an:
Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide
to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right
and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that
month should spend it in fasting. But if any one is ill, or on a
journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later.
Surah 2.185
The fourth pillar of Islam, which is fasting, is practiced during the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is derived from an Arabic word for intense heat and scorched ground. (in Arabic: رمضان, Ramadān) – or Ramzan in several countries – and it is the ninth month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, established in the year 638 CE. It is considered the most venerated, blessed and spiritually-beneficial month of the Islamic year. Prayers, fasting, charity, and self-accountability are especially stressed at this time; religious observances associated with Ramadan are kept
throughout the month.
"Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing
guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of
you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or
traveling may substitute the same number of other days. Allah wishes for
you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations,
and to glorify Allah for guiding you, and to express your
appreciation."[2:185]
Night of Power
On the 27th day of the fast, Muslims observe the "Night of Power". This special event marks the night, over 1400 years ago, when Muhammad received the first revelations from Almighty God.
It is believed that prayers offered on this night are the most effective of all. Muslims will pray all night!
The Quran:
"We have indeed revealed this (message) in the Night of Power. And
what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power
is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the
spirit by God's permission, on every errand: Peace! This until the rise
of Morn." (97:1-5)
Our Observations
We have observed that Ramadan is a time of spiritual fervor in Niger. Even nominal Muslims become more serious about their religion during this holy month.
There is a contradiction related to the fast. During Ramadan more food is consumed than any other time of the year (at night). Despite this, it is difficult to keep the fast for 30 days during daylight hours (especially in a hot country like Niger). Fasting means no food, no drink from sunup to sundown. People find themselves fatigued and at times irritable.
For anyone who makes light of the Muslim fast, all I can say is, "try it!" It is not that easy.
During the fast, Christians get asked all the time, "Are you fasting?" This is an excellent time to talk about Jesus' teaching on fasting. For the Christian, fasting is not a time of showing piety publicly. It is an act of private devotion between a believer and his creator.
For most Muslims in Niger, fasting is a badge of honor.