Shahru Ramadhan 1434 ▪ July/August 2013

AZ-ZAHRAA ISLAMIC CENTRE For program timings and info:

website: www.az-zahraa.org

The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his progeny) said: O' Peo-ple! Surely, the month of God has approached you. This month that, in the eyes of Allah, is the most virtuous of the months. Its days are the

best of the days and its nights, the best of the nights and its moments, the best of the moments. Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 96, pg. 356

"O People! Indeed ahead of you is the Blessed month of Allah. A month of blessing, mercy and forgiveness. A month which with Allah is the best of months, its days the best of days, its nights the best of nights, and its hours the best of hours. It is hte month which invites you to be the guests of Allah and invites you to be one of those near to Him. Each breath you take glorifies Him, your sleep is worship, your deeds are accepted, and your supplications are answered." --SERMON GIVEN BY THE HOLY PROPHET (S) ON THE LAST NIGHT OF SHA'BAN ON RAMADHAN. Dear Respected Scholars, Elders of the Community, Brothers and Sisters in Islam, Asalaamun Alaykum. The exalted months of Rajab, Sha'ban and Ramadhan are indeed three golden links in the divine chain of the excellent months which belong to Allah (swt). As we wait in antici-pation of the new crescent moon of the month of Ramadhan, we would like wish each one of you and your families, Ramadhan Mubarak.

Indeed Ramadhan is a time in which we revitalize our mind, body and soul in our journey to seek-ing nearness to the Almighty. Renewing our spirituality, building unity and strengthening brother-hood are all a vital part of this journey. In this spirit, we would like to take this opportunity to invite you and your families to join us at the Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre each night for our Ramdhan Program. This year we have organized a wonderful month of lectures by our guest speakers, Sheikh Ali Al Najjar, Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry and Muallim Hussein Walji. As well, we will pray Salaat, recite the Holy Qur'an, play sports and have Iftaar together. Inshallah, each one of us, including our elders, youth and children will be able to benefit greatly from our unique program offerings this year. One of the great acts we can indulge in during the Month of Ramadhan is charity and our center is very much in need of your generosity. Our lifeblood is really the individual donations made by con-cerned, caring people such as yourself. We want to assure you again, that your contribution will truly mean a difference in the quality of programs and services we can continue to offer. In this Holy month, let us ask our Lord to give us a sound body and an enlightened heart so that we may be able to fast and recite His book; for only he is unhappy who is devoid of Allah's for-giveness during this great month. Whilst we will be the guests of Allah (swt), let us remember one another, our Marhumeen, our brothers and sisters living in poverty, the sick and the orphans in our Du'as this month. With Duas & Salaams, Executive Committee, Ladies Management Committee Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre

"It is a month in which you have been called to the banquet of God" --The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be on him and his family

DATE IMSAK SUBH SUNRISE ZUHR SUNSET MAGHRIB

July 9 3:09 3:24 5:17 1:18 9:17 9:29

July 10 3:15 3:25 5:18 1:18 9:17 9:29

July 11 3:15 3:25 5;19 1:18 9:16 9:28

July 12 3:16 3:26 5;20 1:18 9:15 9:27

July 13 3:16 3:26 5:21 1:19 9:14 9:26

July 14 3:17 3:27 5:22 1:19 9:14 9:26

July 15 3:18 3:28 5:23 1:19 9:13 9:25

July 16 3:18 3:28 5:24 1:19 9:12 9:24

July 17 3:19 3:29 5:25 1:19 9:11 9:23

July 18 3:19 3:29 5:26 1:19 9:10 9:22

July 19 3:20 3:30 5:28 1:19 9:09 9:21

July 20 3:21 3:31 5:29 1:19 9:08 9:20

July 21 3:21 3:31 5:30 1:19 9:06 9:18

July 22 3:22 3:32 5:31 1:19 9:05 9:17

July 23 3:23 3:33 5:32 1:19 9:04 9:16

July 24 3:23 3:33 5:34 1:19 9:03 9:15

July 25 3:34 3:34 5:35 1:19 9:01 9:13

July 26 3:25 3:35 5:36 1:19 9:00 9:12

July 27 3:27 3:37 5:38 1:19 8:59 9:11

July 28 3:29 3:39 5:39 1:19 8:57 9:09

July 29 3:31 3:41 5:40 1:19 8:56 9:08

July 30 3:33 3:43 5:42 1:19 8:55 9:07

July 31 3:36 3:46 5:43 1:19 8:53 9:05

Aug 01 3:38 3:49 5:44 1:19 8:52 9:04

Aug 02 3:40 3:52 5:46 1:19 8:50 9:02

Aug 03 3:43 3:55 5:47 1:19 8:48 9:00

Aug 04 3:46 3:58 5:48 1:19 8:47 8:59

Aug 05 3:49 4:00 5:50 1:19 8:45 8:57

Aug 06 3:52 4:03 5:51 1:19 8:44 8:56

Aug 07 3:55 4:05 5:53 1:18 8:42 8:54

Aug 08 3:58 4:08 5:54 1:18 8:40 8:52

Aug 09 4:00 4:10 5:55 1:18 8:39 8:51

AZ-ZAHRAA

ISLAMIC CENTRE

SHAHRU RAM-ADHAN APPEAL

Each Ram-

adhan, we

count on

the generosity and support

of donors like you to help us

keep the doors to our Centre

open for the benefit of the

children, youth, women, sen-

iors and community mem-

bers alike who continue to

depend on the services of-

fered here.

Keeping our community a

vital, wonderful place to

worship in, volunteer, raise a

family and grow is important

to each one of us and we

pray to the Almighty to keep

us united and on the straight

path.

PLEASE DONATE TODAY

This Ram-

adhan

please

donate

generous-

ly to the

Rama-

dhan Appeal. Your contribution is

the lifeline that helps pay for the

upkeep of the Centre as well as

the programs and services

offered here.

Prayer & Fasting Timetable for Greater Vancouver

Guide to Ramadhan 1434/2013

This year, we have embarked on a strategy to create a guide to Ramadhan for our beloved Mumi-neen. In this guide, you will find a number of resources including the following:

Namaz Timetable Details on Iftar program at Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre Bios of Guest Speakers: Sheikh Ali Al Najjar, Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry and Br. Hussein Walji Special Programs at Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre including the following:

Quran Khani Programs for Children Kids Workshops Library on Wheels Youth discussions and programs Sport tournaments and programs COMMUNITY BBQ! Eid Mela

I’Tikaf Program Master Ramadhan Schedule for Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre Mens Volunteer Schedule Ramadhan Resources including the following:

Prophet’s Sermon on Ramadhan Philosophy of Fasting Simple Resolutions for Ramadhan Laws on Fasting FAQ’s on Zakat Al Fitra Resource on Ramadhan for friends/co-workers Youtube Ramadhan Resources I’tikalf—The spiritual retreat Health and Wellness in Ramadhan

NEW DIRECTORY: Please provide us with your information by using the fol-lowing link: http://az-zahraa.org/newsDetails.asp?id=44

We hope you take advantage of this guide and any feedback would be most

appreciated. Feedback can be sent to secretary@az-zahraa.org

Iftar Program in the month of Ramadhan

(“O you who have faith! Prescribed for you is fasting, as it was prescribed for those who were be-fore you, so that you may be God wary” Qur’an; chapter-2:verse 183)

“Whoever feeds a fasting brother at the time of breaking the fast God will be as much pleased with him as though he would have emancipated a slave, and it means that his sins of past would be for-given”.

Somebody pleaded that not everybody was affluent enough to feed others. The Holy Prophet said: “Allah is generous enough to be pleased with you even if you break the fast of Muslim brother with a morsel of date or a cup of water if it is the only thing which you can offer”. God does not see the wealth offered but it is the feeling of the heart only which counts. Then the Holy Prophet proceeded to say: “Anybody who makes the burden of his servants lighter in this month Allah will make his sins lighter for him on the Day of Judgment”.

Iftar Program at Az-Zahraa Islamic Center—7 days/week Iftar Program!

Full Jamaat Sponsored Iftars have been arranged on Wednesday, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays each week in the holy month of Ramadhan in addition to the nights of Laylatul Qadr. If you would like to sponsor an Iftar for the entire community, please contact Sis. Nargis Ladak.

“Community Sponsored Light Iftar” We have allocated the days of Monday, Tuesday and Thursday to the community to sponsor a “light iftar” in memory of their loves ones who have passed away. The iftar program will first begin by reciting surah fatehah for the marhum(s) and items will include items such as donairs, burgers etc. The suggested donation to sponsor an iftar is $400. To reserve, please email Br. Hussein Bhojani at husseinbhojani@hotmail.com

Sharing Caring Snacks: On all days, especially the days of “Light Iftar” we would like to encourage all mumineen to pre-pare and bring some appetiz-ers/snacks as well as salad and fruit that they can share with their neighbors during the time of iftar. In combination with the light Iftar, this will create a hearty and healthy meal!!!! Show you care about your brothers/sisters and bring some great snacks that you can endulge in together!!!!

VISITNG SPEAKERS TO AZ-ZAHRAA ISLAMIC CENTRE

Ramadhan 1-14 – Guest Speaker and Reciter Sheikh Ali Al Najjar Islamic and Academic lecturer, Writer, Activist, and Interfaith Advocate. Follow him on Twitter @AliAl_Najjar. Ali Al-Najjar shines as one of the youngest yet most prominent lecturers in the west. He has lec-tured worldwide in countries including Africa, UK, Canada, and the majority of the United States of America some of which include Miami, New York, New Jersey, California, Boston, Ohio, Denver, Houston, New Orleans, and Maryland. He comes from a lineage well known for its deeply rooted presence in Islamic sciences and jurispru-dence as he is the son of Sheikh Husham Al-Husainy, the director and founder of the Karbalaa Is-lamic Education Center, one of the earliest Islamic centers established in the west, and the great grandson of the late Mohammed Ali Al-Najjar, the engineer and constructor behind the mausoleum of the 7th Imam, Musa ibn Jaafar Al-Kathim (as). Ali Al-Najjar began his public career from his childhood as he grew up in Dearborn, Michigan amongst many prestigious and scholarly figures while studying under numerous scholars and lectur-ers. Ali Al-Najjar was born in the United States of America and currently resides in Dearborn, MI as he completes his academic major in Social Psychology and minor in Theology.

Guest Reciter – Muallim Hussein Walji – Ramadhan 19-27th

Hussein Karmali Hirji Walji is the son of Marhum Karmalibhai Hirji and Fatrmabai. Since the age of 10 he has been a zakeer of Imam Hussein AS and until today continues to serve in this capacity lo-cally and an many parts of the World. His inspiration of serving Allah St and Ahlulbait comes from the services his father and mother had provided for years in Kampala, Uganda.

As a Zakeer of Imam Hussein AS he recites majalises primarily in English, but also manages to recite in Gujarati and Urdu. He works fulltime as Vice President of Transportation and Logistics at Wells Fargo & Co and he has been in this financial institution for 34 years. While working full time, he also served for 2 terms as President of Nasimco. In addition, he has served as President of Anjuman-e-Asghari in Minneapolis for 5 terms and as Resident Zakeer since 1972. He was featured recently in NY times on the issues of providing care for the elderly. He has worked on various charitable causes while working for Wells Fargo including a loan executive for United Way.

Guest Speaker – Ramadhan 15th – 30th

Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry Theme: Shaytaan and his methods... Bio: Professionally, Seyyid is an Electrical Engineer (with a Masters Degree) who is currently study-ing in Qum for almost 7 years. As a lover of the Ahlul Bayt, he has travelled to many different communities to spread the message of Islam and is particularly interested in Aqaid, Fiqh and devel-oping tools to impart religious education to the youth. Seyyid is married with two children.

TO REGISTER ONLINE, PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1bsvMoVbnKV3BEey4BpadIzeUqf-1Jfr2BO5lD0Kes4Q/viewform

MARK YOUR CALENDARS - Special Programs in Ramadhan:

Every Tuesday/Thursday—Youth Open Mosque from 4pm to program start time—

activities to include video games, movies, board games, informal discussions with alims Friday July 12th – Youth Q and A with Sheikh Ali Al Najjar after Iftar

Friday July 12th – Jr. Soccer coordinated by Br. Munir Virji – munirvirji@yahoo.com Saturday July 13 - Girls badminton: after iftar; ages 9-18; cost $15 (includes sehri); contact Sis

Shabnam Dewji or Sis Zahida Dhalla or Sis Abida Merali. Max number of participants 32. Tuesday July 16th—Sandwich making, Wednesday July 17th—sandwich distribution in

downtown eastside Friday July 19th – Mens Hockey Tournament coordinated by Br. Alireza Jessa –

ali.jessa@gmail.com Saturday July 20 - Ladies badminton after iftar; ages 19 and up; cost $15 (includes sehri); contact Sis Farzana Alidina, Sis Zahra Jaffer or Sis Zainab Nathu. Max number of participants 32.

Saturday July 20th – Boys only Discussion with Sheikh Ali Al Najjar Thursday July 25th—Youth discussion with Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry after Iftar

Friday, July 26th – Youth Games Night – coordinated by Az-Zahraa Youth Committee Friday, August 2nd – Mens Badminton Tournament coordinated by Br. Iqbal Meghjee – mime-

ghjee@gmail.com Seniors Discussion – Community Upliftment lead by Hussein Walji

COMMUNITY BBQ Event!!!!!! Ladies Eid Mela Program

Saturday August 3rd—August 5th—Itikalf Program (see poster for more details) Saturday August 3rd – Mens Table Tennis Tournament coordinated by Br. Iqbal Meghjee –

mimeghjee@gmail.com Sunday August 4th—Mens Soccer Tournament coordinated by Br. Munir Virji – Ages 16 and

up

To register, please follow the link below

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1xH7np0fgfdXuXFH29xVlZ5ajbUChQ2SEcfz6kO0Uruw/viewform?pli=1

TO REGISTER ONLINE, PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1eD6jNwsjTWPZsw-

HCtNEm1qFGYf3odXON4r_e1UOh48/viewform

Ramadhan 1434/July August 2013 - Master Schedule

Tuesday - July 9th (Ramadhan 1st night) Magrib: 9:29pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Tawassul, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar”

Wednesday - July 10th (2nd night) Magrib: 9:29pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Maj-lis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar

Ramadhan 3, Thursday - July 11th Magrib: 9:28pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Kumayl, Su-rah Yaseen Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar” Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 4, Friday - July 12th Magrib: 9:27pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Maj-lis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar Actvity: Kids Soccer Tounament Activity: Youth Discussion with Sheikh Ali Al Najjar

Ramadhan 5, Saturday - July 13th Magrib: 9:26pm Program Start 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah by Ali Al Najjar, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar Actvity: Girls Badminton Tournamnet

Ramadhan 6, Sunday – July 14th Magrib: 9:26pm Program Start 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar

Ramadhan 7, Monday – July 15th Magrib: 9:25pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Spon-sored Light Iftar”,

Ramadhan 8, Tuesday - July 16th Magrib: 9:24pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Tawassul by Ali Al Najjar, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar” Activity: Sandwich making after Asr Salaat, Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 9, Wednesday - July 17th Magrib: 9:23pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar Activity: Youth Sandwich distribution in downtown eastside

Ramadhan 10, Thursday - July 18th Magrib: 9:22pm Program Start: 7:45pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Kumayl by Ali al Najjar, Surah Yaseen Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar” Activity: Teachers Appreciation Iftar, Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 11, Friday - July 19th – Wafat of Bibi Khadi-ja (AS) Magrib: 9:21pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar Activity: Mens Hockey Tournament

Ramadhan 12, Saturday - July 20th Magrib: 9:20pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Maj-lis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar with neigh-boring communities who will join us Activity: Ladies Badminton Tournament Activity: Youth Boys Only session with Sheikh Ali Al Naj-jar

Ramadhan 13, Sunday - July 21st Magrib: 9:18pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar

Ramadhan 14, Monday - July 22nd Magrib: 9:17pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Spon-sored Light Iftar”,

Ramadhan 15, Tuesday - July 23rd Magrib: 9:16pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Tawassul by Ali Al Najjar, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar”. Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 16, Wednesday - July 24th - WILADAT of our 2nd IMAM Magrib: 9:15pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis by Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar

Ramadhan 17, Thursday - July 25th Magrib: 9:13pm Program Start: 7:30pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Kumayl, Su-rah Yaseen Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with “Community Sponsored Light Iftar” Activity: Madresah Quran Competition, Youth Open Mosque at 4pm, Youth Discussion after Iftar

Ramadhan 18, Friday - July 26th Magrib: 9:12pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar Activity: Madresah Quran Competition, Youth Games Night after Iftar—ALL NIGHT

Events are scheduled on the Islamic date and are subject to change depending on the sighting of the moon. For questions, clarifications, details, or special requests, please contact Br. Mehboob Khaku at program@az-zahraa.org

If you want to sponsor a niaz, please contact Sis. Nargis Ladak at 604-275-8443

Ramadhan 19, Saturday - July 27th – SHABE ZARBAT Magrib: 9:11pm Program Start: 7:15pm – Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar, Amaals for the night of Laylatul Qadr to be led by Muallim Hussein Walji, Dua Tawbah, break, Dua Makarimul Akhlaq, Dua Jawshan Kabeer, 51 Rakaat Salaat, Sehri, Salatul Layl, Fajr Sa-laat Activity: Madresah Quran Competition,

Ramadhan 20, Sunday - July 28th Magrib: 9:09pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis in English by Seyyid Ali Aqib Jaffry/Ghujrati lecture by Muallim Hussein Walji (in Imambargha), Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar. Activity: Surah Yaseen at Forest Lawn Cemetary at 11am for gents only.

Ramadhan 21, Monday - July 29th – NIGHT OF LAYLATUL QADR Magrib: 9:08pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar, Amaals for the night of Laylatul Qadr to be led by Muallim Hussein Walji, Dua Tawba. Activity: Mosque will be open all night

Ramadhan 22, Tuesday - July 30th - SHAHADAT OF OUR 1ST IMAM Magrib: 9:07pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Tawassul by Hussein Walji, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Community Sponsored Light Iftar. Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 23, Wednesday - July 31st – NIGHT OF LAYLATUL QADR Magrib: 9:05pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar, Amaals for the night of Laylatul Qadr to be led by Muallim Hussein Walji, Dua Tawba. Activity: Mosque will be open all night

Ramadhan 24, Thursday - August 1st Magrib: 9:04pm Program Start: 7:15pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Kumayl by Hussein Walji, Surah Yaseen, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Community Sponsored Light Iftar. Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

IHTIKHAF BEGINS Ramadhan 25, Friday - August 2nd Magrib: 9:02pm Program Start: 7pm – - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis by Hussein Walji, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar Activity: Ladies Eid Mela, Mens Badminton Tournament, Seniors Discussion with Muallim Hussein Walji Community BBQ Event – all brothers and sisters invit-ed

Ramadhan 26, Saturday - August 3rd Magrib: 9pm Program Start: 7pm – Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis by Hussein Walji, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar Activity: Mens Table Tennis Tournament

Ramadhan 27, Sunday - August 4th Magrib: 8:59pm Program Start: 7pm – Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis by Hussein Walji, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Iftar Activity: Mens Soccer

IHTIKHAF ENDS Ramadhan 28, Monday - August 5th Magrib: 8:57pm Program Start: 7pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Community Spon-sored Light Iftar.

Ramadhan 29, Tuesday - August 6th Magrib: 8:56pm Program Start: 7pm – Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Ta-wassul, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Com-munity Sponsored Light Iftar. Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Ramadhan 30, Wednesday - August 7th Magrib: 8:54pm Program Start: 7pm - Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Majlis, Magrib/Isha Salaat and ending with Iftar.

Shawaal 1, Thursday - August 8 – NIGHT OF EID FITR Magrib: 8:52pm Program Start: 7pm – Qur’an Khani, Dua Iftitah, Dua Ku-mayl, Surah Yaseen, Ziarat Warith, Magrib/Isha Salaat, Community Sponsored Light Iftar and ending with Amaal for night of Eid Fitr Activity: Youth Open Mosque at 4pm

Friday, August 9 – DAY OF EID FITR Program Start: 7:30am – Dua Nudba followed by Salatul Eid at 8am, Ziarat of Imam Hussein on the Day of Eid. 9:15am – Eid Carnival followed by Lunch 1:18pm – Jumah Salaat

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Ramadhan Resources:

The Prophet's sermon Shaikh Sadooq relates from an authentic source that Imam Raza (A.S.) related from his ancestors, who related it from Ameerul Momineen Ali bin Abi Talib (A.S.) that latter said that one day, the Prophet of Allah delivered the following sermon to them: Video 'O' People! the Month of Allah (Ramazan has approached you with His mercies and blessings. This is the month that is the best of all the month in the estimation of Allah. Its days are best among the days; its nights are best among the nights. Its hours are best among the hours. This is a month in which you have been invited by Him. You have been, in this month, selected as the recipients of the honours from Allah, the Merciful. In this holy month, when you breathe, it has the thawab (heavenly reward) of'Tasbeeh) (The praise of Allah on rosary beeds), and your sleep has the thawab of worship. Your good deeds are accepted, in this month. So are your invocations. Therefore, you must invoke your Lord in right earnest, with hearts that are free from sins and evils, that Allah may bless you observe fast, in this month, and to recite the Holy Quran. To continue reading, click here

Philosophy of Fasting!

IMAM RAZA {A.S.)

Mohammad, son of Senan, narrates that Imam Raza {A.S.) gave this reason for fasting that the ob-server of fast may feel the pain {pangs) of hunger and thirst, and prove himself meek, humble, worthy of reward, hopeful and patient before Allah, and this trouble here may remind him of the hardships of the Hereafter. By getting rid of the evil desires a man's self learns a lesson in this

world and expects the blessing of the Hereafter. The observer of fast sees through the circumstanc-es of the needy and the destitute in this world as well as in the Hereafter. (The people who starve during (fast) will be rich in the Hereafter and those who do not observe fast and enjoy riches in the

world, will face poverty in the Hereafter. The observer of fast finds out this subtle point. Click Here to continue reading

Simple Resolution for Ramadan Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi

As Muslims living in the Western part of the world, we follow two calendars: the Hijri calendar for our religious activities, and the common calendar for business and vacation. But we do not always fix the first month of the year (January or Muharram) as the beginning of all our activities. We di-vide our lives in different ways: for example, our academic year starts in September and ends in June. Similarly, in the Islamic calendar, our spiritual year starts with the month of Rajab and reach-es to its peak during the month of Ramadan.

Ramadan is the month of fasting; and so, our emotions are calm, hearts are open, and there is a kind of tranquility in minds. Therefore, this is the appropriate time to evaluate ourselves spiritually and make some resolutions for the following spiritual year.

1. The first resolution should be to see the level of consciousness of God in your life. How important is Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) in your life? How much importance do you give to the Ahlul Bayt of the Prophet (peace be upon them) and his sincere and devoted companions?

Once you have evaluated yourself in this way, then make the resolution to increase the level of consciousness of God's presence in your life, and consider the Prophet and his Ahlul Bayt as the first role-models for yourself.

2. The second resolution should be to evaluate your life with your family. At times, people take their near ones for granted, and unknowingly tend to ignore their rights. Islam gives great im-portance to Silatur Rahm (maintaining ties with the relatives): your wife and children, your parents, your brothers and sisters, and other relatives. Strengthen the ties with them and be concern for their spiritual as well as material well-being.

See how you can improve your attitude towards your wife or husband: as a husband, are you ap-preciative of what your wife does for you at home? Have you ever thanked her for doing the small things that you take for granted? Have you expressed your love and appreciation for her? As a wife, are you supportive of your husband in the struggles of life? After all, you are his partner of life.

Moving to your other relations, see if there is someone with whom you have not talked for a long time? Is there a relative of yours who is upset with you? Then this is the appropriate time for you to take the first and courageous step to mend that relationship.

3. Look at your children and see how you can increase the spirituality in your home en-vironment. Is the holy Qur'an being recited on a daily or, at least, weekly basis? Have you provid-ed them with the means of studying the Qur'an and getting in touch the Holy Scripture? The Qur'an is now available in all medias: print, audio cassette, CD, iPod – does your child's electronic gadget have the Qur'an in it?

What about the sayings of the Prophet and the Ahlul Bayt? Is it possible to discuss one narration of the Prophet on a monthly basis, and ask them to memorize it? Have you encouraged your children to give charity? Do they participate in the local food banks, especially the Muslim Food Bank? Have you discussed with them how they can volunteer in their Islamic centers?

Ramadan is indeed the time of searching yourself and reforming your life to become a better Mus-lim. May Allãh bless you in this holy month and grant you success. Amen.

Laws of Fasting: Part 1: Click Here Part 2: Click Here

8 Easy Steps to Recite the Entire Qur’an this Ramadan By Haafidha Rayhaanah Omar (Fee Qalbee blog)

It has been said that everything has a beloved & that the month of Ramadan has a beloved, too: The Glo-

rious Qur’an. For the duration of this month, Muslims worldwide honour Ramadan’s beloved and aspire to complete the recitation of the Qur’an.

In this article you’ll learn how you too can work towards achieving this noble goal, insha’Allah. STEP 1: ESTABLISHING AN INTENTION

Our beloved Messenger of Allah(peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) taught us – through his words & actions –

the importance of one’s intent or purpose. Establishing one’s intention is an effective catalyst for implementation. Once your intention has been established, remember to renew it often. Whilst reciting and even upon completion of

the Qur’an, recall your intention and renew it, thus ensuring that it is constantly purified & you are seeking His Divine Acceptance, inshaAllah.

STEP 2: DON’T BE OVERWHELMED For some, as much as they aspire to complete the recitation of the Qur’an during Ramadan, they are overwhelmed by

the number of pages or the length of some Surahs. Remove ‘I can’t’ from your vocabulary and eliminate negative think-

ing, for the believer puts their trust in Allah, matched by striving with their actions. Remind yourself that you are (if Allah wills) fully capable of achieving your Qur’anic aspirations, whether it be completing Qur’an 1 or 5 times. This second point is key. Put your heart into this accomplishment & reap the rewards throughout, inshaAllah. STEP 3: PLAN AHEAD

Prior to commencing with your recitation it’s important to plan around your routine and block out time for your Qur’an

goal e.g. your work hours, rest hours & any other commitments which you may have. Structure a realistic plan of how to complete the recitation of Qur’an within the month by dividing each Juz per day. Draw up this personal plan, re-view it constantly, and put it into action! As you put your plan to paper, consider past Ramadan’s and ask yourself if there have been instances where you were

unable to complete Qur’anic recitation. Reflect over why and how this occurred. Is there a different mechanism that you could put into place? How could you enhance your daily Qur’an routine if these distractions were dealt with?

Take the first opportunity that comes, to begin your Qur’anic quest. So when the moon is sighted & the announcement

has been made for the 1st Salaatul-Taraweeh, begin in earnest, with Surah Al-Fatiha, Surah Al-Baqarah etc.

STEP 4: UNDERSTAND THE QUR’AN

Read the translation of the Juz you will be reciting daily. Having a basic knowledge of the theme, topic, message &

meaning of what you are reciting makes the recitation of the Qur’an an incredibly uplifting experience that you do not want to miss out on!

STEP 5: FIND QUR’AN BUDDIES AND COMPETE IN GOOD Develop close bonds with brothers/sisters who are known for their attachment to the Qur’an. They’ll be your spiritual

friends. Engage a Qur’an Buddy in your noble Qur’an productivity goals. Request that they remind you to fulfil your goals and spiritual aspirations so they can help you in times of slacking.

In life, we compete with many materialistic goals and race one another, but what about following the footsteps of the

best of generations that had come before us in a competition this Ramadan? In striving and competing with our friends and colleagues towards our noble goals, in a good-natured way, we can motivate ourselves to finish

our Qur’an goal. One of the common aspects which deter a Muslim from completing this task is excessive communication. Often, many

of us spend too much unnecessary time surfing the net, chatting, texting, etc… . Reduce this even by a third

and you will see, feel and witness the blessings in your time, inshaAllah. STEP 6: SEIZE THE MOMENT

A deeply inspiring story in ‘lessons from the waiting room’ – where a mother; who has taken her unwell child to the hos-pital; waits for the doctor to see to her child. She notices a young Muslim who uses his time in the waiting room, in a

most effective & spiritually rewarding way, reciting from a pocket-sized Quran. Lesson to be taken here: Invest in a pocket-sized Qur’an and make it your best friend this Ramadan. Seize every opportunity and moment to be with

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) through your recitation.

One of the best times at which to recite Qur’an, is after Suhoor(pre- dawn meal). Having partaken from the Sunnah meal, and within an hour or two still to go before work or school, this is the ideal jump start to your day. The

Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) asked Allah (glorified and exalted be He) to bless our Ummah in the early hours, and you will also be more likely to memorise ayahs at this time. Research shows that

morning study creates better performance in students so don’t miss the morning recitation!

Time Tip: Salah Followed by Qur’an. Consider the following option that has worked well for numerous people in past Ramadan’s.Try reciting 6 – 8 pages

of Qur’an (depending on the Mus-haf(copy of the Qur’an) that you are using) after each of your 5 daily salah. Add Qiyaamul-Layl (late night salah) as a 6th addition, and you will reach the end of Ramadan, having completed

your Qur’an recitation with ease & perhaps, even before the last 5 days of Ramadan so long as you remain committed.

Time Tip: Recite before going to sleep. Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says: “Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence and more suitable for words” (Qur’an73:6). Reciting during the day is also beneficial, however the night time recitation is easier as well during Ramadan as there are less distractions and noise.

STEP 7: REMAIN STEADFAST AND CONSISTENT The key to any success is consistency. Once you’ve mapped your plan, stick to it. Remind yourself of the greatness

of this month, of the opportunities that it provides for your spiritual growth and your relationship with the Qur’an. Don’t

be willing to compromise it in this month. STEP 8: MAKE DUA’A TO ALLAH (GLORIFIED AND EXALTED BE HE)

Nothing can be achieved without the aid and guidance of Allah (glorified and exalted be He). When making your intention to complete your recitation or memorisation of Qur’an, supplicate to Allah (glorified and exalted be He) to

ease this noble pathway and to crown your efforts with success, inshaAllah.

These are the 8 ways I wanted to share with you on starting and completing your journey through recitation of the

Qur’an this Ramadan. Indeed, Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says in Surah Al-Baqarah: “This is the Book about

which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.’’ In the hours of the days and nights of this sacred

month, may the Qur’an be your companion of light and guidance, resonating through your words, actions and life mis-

sion. May your relationship with the Qur’an be strengthened, enriched & enlivened with the profound wisdom and divine

message from Allah (glorified and exalted be He).

The Merits of Fasting and the Month of Ramadhan

To Read this fantastic book by Dr. Shomali, please click here

FAQ ON ZAKAT AL-FITRAH

All Mumineen are strongly encouraged to provide the Zakat Al-Fitrah at the beginning of the month, so this money can be utilized to help our mumineen the holy month. For further information, please note the following:

(According to Fataawa of Ayatullah Sayyid Ali al-Husayni Seestani) Q. What is Zakatul Fitrah?

A: It is religious tax/alms (zakat) paid on the day when Muslims break the fasting period at the end of the month of

Ramadhan. This alms is known as Zakat al-Fitrah. Q. What do the Qur'an and Hadith say about Fitrah?

A: Imams (a) say that the verses: Indeed whosoever purifies himself shall achieve success, and glorifies the Name of his Lord and prays (87:14 & 15) refer to giving of Fitrah and saying prayers on Eid al-Fitr. Imam Ja`far as- Sadiq (a)

said: for your fast to be accepted, give zakât.

Q. When does Fitrah become wajib? A. Payment of Fitrah becomes obligatory after sunset on the eve of Eid al- Fitr. The Fitrah should be kept aside and

paid on Eid al-Fitr before Eid prayers or before midday for those who cannot say their Eid prayers. It is necessary to have obligatory intention (niyyah) of giving Fitrah for God's pleasure only.

Q. What happens if someone forgets or does not give Fitrah on time?

A. If one does not give out or set aside the Fitrah within the due time, he should give the Fitrah later, on the basis of precaution, without making the niyyah of adaa or qadhaa but only Qurbatan Ilallah.

Q. Can we give Fitrah in advance? A. Giving Fitrah before the eve of Eid al-Fitr is not permissible. However, if you wish to send Fitrah earlier so that it

reaches the needy on time, then you can send it as a temporary loan to the needy and then change your intention from loan to Fitrah on the eve of Eid al-Fitr.

Q. To whom is Fitrah obligatory?

A. Paying Fitrah is obligatory on every Muslim who is mature (baligh), sane, financially able, and conscious on the eve of Eid al-Fitr. Fitrah should also be paid on behalf of all dependents (e.g. wife, children) whom one supports financially.

Q. When is a host required to pay Fitrah for his guest? A. If a person invites another person to his house on the eve of Eid al-Fitr and if the guest is present at the host's place

at the time of the sunset then it is obligatory for the host to pay Fitrah for his guest.

Q. What happens if the guest arrives after the sunset on Eid night? A. In this case the guest will pay his/her own Fitrah and it is not obligatory on the host to pay Fitrah for the guest.

Q. What happens if a guest comes uninvited and is present at the time of the sunset on the eve of Eid al-Fitr? A. Ayatullah Sayyid As-Sistani says that the host should still pay the Fitrah as an obligatory precaution. However,

Marhum Ayatullah Sayyid al-Khui was of the opinion that is recommended for the host to pay Fitrah of an uninvited guest.

Q. How much should we pay for Fitrah?

A. Fitrah for a person is given on a weight of three kilograms (one sa`a) on any food commodity like wheat, barley, rice, millet, raisins or dates. Ayatullah Seestani is of the opinion that the item that is not a staple food in your town

should not be given in Fitrah. Say, for example, if millet is not a staple in Vancouver then Vacouver mumineen should not pay Fitrah on millet.

Q. Can we give cash value of any commodity mentioned above?

A. Yes, cash value in lieu of any foodstuff mentioned can be given as Fitrah. Thus, if a kilo of rice costs $2.00, the cash value of Fitrah on rice per person would be $6.00. We recommend, Fitrah on basmati rice to be Canadian Dollars 7.00

for residents of Canada and US Dollars 6.00 for US residents. (Please check prices for other items in your areas.) Q. Whom should we give the Fitrah to?

A. It is given to the needy who are unable to meet their own or their dependants annual living expenses, nor do they

have the means to do so through earning. Ayatullah As-Seestani says that the needy who is given the fitrah must be a Shi`ah Ithna `Ashari.

Q. Who should not be given the Fitrah? A. A needy who: consumes alcohol, does not say his daily prayers (salat), commits sins openly, or he who is known to

use the Fitrah in sinful way.

Q. Are there any additional rules that we need to be aware of?

A. Following are some important rules: (i) Fitrah should not be sent outside the town one resides in, if there are de-serving mumineen in that town. (ii) Fitrah from a non-Sayyid cannot be given to a needy Sayyid; the reverse is permis-

sible. (iii) A needy should be given at least one Fitrah (iv) Amongst the needy, relatives should be preferred over others when giving Fitrah, next in line are neighbors and then the learned.

Reproduced with permission from the Academy for Learning Islam.

Tabligh Resources

As the month progresses, you may find your non-Muslim colleagues and co-workers curious about Ramadhan and what it means.

Click Here to provide them with a great resource

Feel free to print these out for your reference or share them with your friends. If anyone you know is interested in visiting Az Zahraa, please let us know via email at public-relations@az-zahraa.org, and we'll ensure your friends are properly cared for, insha'allah.

YouTube Ramadhan Resources:

I – Welcoming the Holy month

1. Supplication for the coming of the month of Ramadan

Dua No. 44 from Sahīfa Sajjādiyya of Imam Zaynul ‘Abidīn

Arabic and English text – 13 minutes 8 seconds.

Recitor: Hussein Gharib

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ogc5NTzL8LM

2. Khutba of the Holy Prophet (s) to welcome the month of Ramadān.

Arabic recitation with English sub titles. 7 minutes 30 seconds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aL7PSibQApU

3. Beautiful Nasheed to welcome the Holy month

Arabic, French and English.

3 minutes 48 seconds

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RA2nGU5rCE&feature=related

II – Du‘âs during the Holy Month

1. Short Du‘ās for the nights of the month of Ramadān

1. Yā Aliyyu Yā Azīm (Du‘ā No. 1 in A Manual of Ramadhan Devotions by Tayyiba Pub-

lishers)

Arabic recitation and English subtitles

2 minutes 9 seconds. Recitor: Hussein al-Aryan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3pWHz9YXu0

2. Du‘ās for the nights of Ramadān.

Allahumma bi rahmatika fīs salihīna fa adkhilna. . .

Allahumma innī as’aluka fī mā taqdī wa tuqaddir . .

(Du‘ā No. 5 and no. 6 in A Manual of Ramadhan Devotions by Tayyiba Publishers)

Arabic and English text. 4 minutes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=105EyeLHMkE&feature=related

2. Du‘ā al-Iftitah

1. Arabic and English text, 20 minutes. Recitor: Abū Thar Halwāji

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv6INTAL3f4&feature=related

2. Gujrati Recitation, 18 mins 25 seconds

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppFCbGvpq1Y

3. Du‘ā Bahā at the time of Suhūr.

Arabic and English text, 11 minutes 32 seconds. Recitor: Ammār Murtaza

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ACd3KLDWyo&feature=related

4. Du‘ā Abū Hamza Thumālī

Arabic and English text, 1 hour. Recitor: Hussain Ghuraib

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAsaQ9lb6Ew&feature=related

5. Du‘ā Jawshan Kabeer

Arabic and English text - 1 hour 13 minutes. Recitor: Hāj Tāherī

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_WaTUWXpz0&feature=related

6. Du‘ā to bid farewell to the month of Ramadān

Du‘ā No. 45 from Sahīfa Sajjādiyya from Imam Zaynul ‘Ābidīn (a)

Arabic recitation, English sub titles. 34 minutes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0y-_NNbYG2g

IV – A‘mâl of Laylatul Qadr

1. A‘māl of the 19th night

Du‘ā Kumayl, Du‘ā Iftitah and the A‘māl. Arabic and English text. 2 hours

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA7uAqenVpU

2. Sūrahs recommended for the 23rd night. Arabic recitation, Arabic and English text.

1. Sūrah al-‘Ankabūt. 21 minutes 12 seconds. Recitor: Shaikh Ahmad al-Ajmy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TBRR6fzSGQ&feature=related

2. Sūrah al-Rūm. 6 minutes 45 seconds. Recitor: Sheikh Salah Bukhatir

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkmSnp-

45l8&list=PL08036619AEEDCC4A&index=3&feature=plpp_video

3. Sūrah al-Dukhān. 6 minutes 5 seconds. Recitor: Shaikh Saleh Talib

http://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=cPn26lqL7iU&list=PL08036619AEEDCC4A&index=6&feature=plpp_video

3. Munājāt of Imam Ali (a)

Arabic and English text. 14 minutes and 23 seconds.

Recitor: Sadiq Ahangaran.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ls11vN9Qitc

VI – Resources for Children

1. Ramadān Joy – A creative companion

Many fun filled projects for kids; crafts, recipes, ideas. . .

http://ramadanjoy.com

2. Ramadān Bulletin Board

http://islamicbulletinboards.wordpress.com/2010/08/10/ramadan-bulletin-board-from-ibb/

3. Books for Ramadān

http://muslimkidsbooks.wordpress.com/2010/08/04/books-about-ramadan-for-kids-and-

teens/

Please note: SMCBC is not responsible for the contents of these books. Parents should use

their discretion in choosing books for their children to read from this list.

4. Ramadān song with Zaky; 3 mins 26 sec

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgGtt-BmVx4&feature=related

5. Kids Cartoon: The Story of the Ramadān Lantern (fictional read aloud)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Hdx36hNTJ8

6. Lessons on the month of Ramadān

http://www.al-islam.org/gallery/kids/Books/lessons/

7. Ramadān Fun Activities

http://ourseeds.tripod.com/activities.html

I’tikaf - The Spiritual Retreat

With information extracted from http://www.hawzah.net/Per/K/Etekaf/ & http://www.etekaf.org/html/adab.htm

The large number of youth and others participating in this great event, something which has only taken form in the last twenty years since the victory of the Islamic revolution, may not be some-thing as seen in other communities around the world – particularly the “West”. Insha-Allah, may Al-lah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) make our communities as large and prosperous as these and may our youth make maximum benefit from this very powerful spiritual retreat. The Messenger of Allah (blessings of Allah be upon him and his family) has said: “The persons who secludes himself (in the Masjid in I’tikaf) in true faith and hope (for the reward of Allah), all of his previous sins shall be forgiven.”

(Kanzul Ummal, Hadith 24007) One of the greatest traditions of Islam, the spark of which has recently been reignited in the hearts of the youth, is that of I’tikaf. This is a tradition which has been in Islam from the first days of the revelation and is also something known and recognized in other Divine religions sent by Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) and practiced by them – more or less: "And when We made the House a pilgrimage for mankind and a (place of) security, and

said, ‘Appoint for yourselves a place of prayer on the standing-place of Ibrahim [Maqam-e-Ibrahim].’ And We enjoined Ibrahim and Ismail saying: ‘Purify My House for those who visit (it) and those who abide (in it) for devotion, those who bow down (and) those who prostrate themselves.’

(Suratul Baqarah (2), Verse 125) The great Masajid of Islam located in cities such as Makkah, Madinah, Kerbala, Najaf, Samarrah, Kadhamain, Qum, Isfahan, Mashad and other major Muslim cities have hosted this spiritual retreat for over 1,400 years primarily in the “White Nights” of Rajab – the 13th, 14th and 15th, and more specifically in the month of Ramadhan – that too primarily in the last 10 nights of the blessed

month. Since the life of the transient world keeps us busy for the whole year in studies, work, business, traveling and other such things and causes us to be negligent of the next life, we may sometimes think that these thing are the sole purpose in life and thus, we end up forgetting our true goal – Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him). Thus, it is for this reason that I’tikaf is referred to as “The spring of life in a world struck with the drought of negligence of Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him).” It is the negligence of ourselves and our Creator which is given a fresh breath of life in this short three day period of I’tikaf. In addition, we can once again find ourselves and our Lord and return back to Him now (spiritually return back to Him) before we are forced to return back to him by the separation of the soul from the body in a state of complete negligence of Him. The period of I’tikaf is the best time to force one’s self to sit and think and reflect on the self and the world around; the period of the I’tikaf is the best time to forget the worries of the transient world and to return to the soul and the Creator of the soul; the period of the I’tikaf is the best time to return back to Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) in true repentance for our sins committed through the year and to concentrate on the Words of Allah in the Quran, the prayers and supplica-tions used to call upon Him and all of those things which are related to Him and His Sacred Es-sence. I’tikaf is not a three day holiday from work or school; it is not a time to sit in the Masjid in complete ignorance of ones’ self and his spiritual surroundings; it is not the venue to pass one’s time in idle-ness. I’tikaf is not the act of sleeping and snoring in the Masjid and killing time…

Truly, I’tikaf is a three day spiritual retreat to build the self; it is the act of leaving one’s personal house to be in the service of Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) and to recognize one’s self in Allah’s house (the Masjid) while at the same time, being a guest in the House of Allah (Glory and

Greatness be to Him) – eating His food which He has sent and being around His servants which He has guided.

The Az-Zahraa Wellness Team is a strategic initiative to engage its members through the use of so-cial wellness, sports and recreation to create a dynamic and uplifting community. Committee Members: Br. Mohamedhussein Ladak, Br. Mehboob Jetha who liaise closely with the sport facilitators on long term initiatives.

Nutrition in Ramadhan Although Ramadhan is a spiritual month in which we seek closeness to Allah, it also important to pay attention to our nutrition and food consumption as an improper diet can cause many dire con-sequences. An excellent diet however, coupled with fasting, can improve an individual's cholesterol profile, reduce stomach acidity, as well as prevent constipation and other digestive problems (Int. J. Ramadan Fasting Research, 3:1-6, 1999). Below are a few pointers and tips: -A balanced diet and light exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this month. This includes eating foods from all four food groups including grain products, milk and al-ternatives (cheese, yogurt, etc.), meat and alternatives (fish, tofu, beans, eggs, nuts, etc), as well as vegetables and fruit. Walking for 30 minutes and stretching are both terrific suggestions for light exercise. -There is no need to eat a great excess at Iftaar time, a balanced diet in moderation is best. Alt-hough it may seem like you need to eat excess in order to get your normal amount of food for the next day; the body is able to slow down its basal metabolism during the day in order to ensure that a less than normal amount of food, but balanced, is enough to keep a person healthy. -Avoid highly processed foods as well as highly fatty foods as these can cause indigestion and weight problems. - Sufficient sleep is necessary during the month of Ramadhan but make sure to allow food to digest for two to three or at least one hour before going to sleep. - Eat foods that breakdown over a longer period of time and thus release energy more slowly. These include complex carbohydrates, wheat, oats, beans, lentils, unpolished rice and etc. - At the beginning of Iftaar, it is a good idea to have dates, juice or soup which can increase low blood sugar levels. They also help to maintain water and minerals levels. - Drink a sufficient amount of water as dehydration can make an individual tired and lazy with no energy to continue to be active.

- Stomach acid and heart burn are commonly noticed during the month of Ramadhan especially af-ter a large Iftaar. Some tips to help avoid this is to consume fiber (also helps constipation), avoid spicy foods, garlic, onions and caffeine (which is also a diuretic and causes urination). Avoiding smoking, lying down after eating and wearing tight clothing will also help. - Eat breakfast (wake up at Daku). It provides useful calories for the day and gets the digestive sys-tem going. Keep the food simple and light, not too many sugars or fried foods, rather eat starches (complex carbohydrates) that will burn off slowly during the day.

- Avoid constipation. This can be helped by drinking lots of water and maintaining fiber in your diet. Lots of fruits and vegetables are great for this.

DATES

Although three dates are eaten at the start of Iftar every day during Ramadan for spiritual reasons, they also come with the added bonus of multiple health benefits. One of the most important as-pects of fasting is getting the right amount of energy, and considering an average serving of dates contains 31 grams of carbohydrates, this is one of the perfect foods to give you a boost. Dates are also a great way of getting some much-needed fibre, which will aid and improve digestion through-out Ramadan. Add to that their high levels of potassium, magnesium and B vitamins, and it quickly becomes apparent that dates are one of the healthiest fruits out there. Click Here to continue reading

Some Physical side benefits of fasting - Well-being: Aside from the spiritual value of fasting, there are Physical rewards that come to you by your not eating for a short time. These rewards are reaped not only by the over plump person, but by anyone who fasts. The general well-being of a person on a fast has been noted by physicians. Many a doctor advises fasting for a patient tussling with gout, heart disease, skin disorder, general intemperance to food and drink, or excessive smoking. Brain Benefit: Fasting is good for mental discipline, and it effects spiritual uplift. The brain benefits greatly. If you are doing heavy study, preparing for a speech, or otherwise engaging in deep con-centration, you do well to fast, Fasting sharpens your mind and makes you alert and sensitive to mental effort. You concentrate more readily if your stomach is empty and not drawing blood from the brain to digest food. Many a public speaker knows well that eating before speaking reduces mental acuity and cuts down on the force of speech. They fast before an important speech and eat later. They know the brain benefits by a fast.

Digestive Distress Relieved: Other organs that are relieved by a fast are the digestive organs. The stomach, liver pancreas, and intestines often are overworked. When the digestion is given a vaca-tion, eating becomes a greater joy. Rejuvenator and Skin Freshener: Fasting has been called a great restorer of youth and prolonger of like. This idea stems from the fact that people who fast acquire a clearer skin, a rosier tint to their cheeks, and a more youthful complexion than they had before. People troubled with skin disorders such as psoriasis, acne, or recurrent skin infection are often ad-vised by their physicians to eliminate sweets and fats from their diet. How much better to eliminate all foods for a time periodically, and let the skin pores have a chance to cleans themselves and be free from the effects of too many sweets and fats. Boon to Smokers: For anyone trying to stop smoking or drinking, a fast can be a boon to the body. By stopping tobacco, alcohol, and food intake for a time, a person helps the body return to normal. Once the body is "Scrubbed clean" inside, the smoker and drinker feels so alive and alert that he does not have any desire to return to his unwise habits. A more nearly normal appetite follows a fast, and simple foods are enjoyed with greater relish. Heavy use of candiments-pepper, spices mustard, and catsup, is no longer needed to make. Food appetizing. Rests Hearts: If you are a heart patient you will find that a fast takes a load off your heart and your circulation. If you have been short of breath, a fast improves your breathing and, by elimination of salt and water from the body, reduces tissue edema. This condition may make it Possible for you to sleep easier and with fewer pillows. Siide Effects: Some minor discomforts are noted at time during fasting. The person who fast may be subject to headaches; if so, he needs the fast. Other side effects of fasting, such as a feeling of weakness, palpitation of the heart, and drowsiness late in the afternoon, usually minor, disappear with a little rest.