Muslims combine worship, willpower as Ramadan begins

Tonight, minutes after sunset, Muslims around the world will begin searching the skyline for the new crescent moon. The sighting of that sliver of light signals the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the lunar calendar and the month during which Muslims are required to fast as a form of worship.

Hearing the word "fast" may conjure thoughts of extreme hunger, weight loss or body detoxification, but across the ages, followers of the Abrahamic faiths have employed fasting as a form of discipline, following the examples of Jesus, Moses and Muhammad, all of whom fasted for God.

God says in the Quran:

"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may [learn] self-restraint."

Quran 2:183

When I was a child, preparation for Ramadan always came early, including the planning for special menus of healthy, traditional foods. "Foul Mudammas" made from fava beans with fresh-baked pita was a breakfast preference while Medjool dates and a variety of Mediterranean salads and soups were usually served for dinner. These were light menus, which allowed our bodies to better utilize reserves during the fast.

Days always felt longer during Ramadan. The delightful aromas of Mother's dinner preparation at the end of the day tested the limits of my willpower. I remember that my father was especially peaceful during this month, encouraging more reading of the Quran, saying extra prayers and, most important, storing the television for those 30 days.

This year, in an effort to increase my spirituality, I have decided I, too, will eliminate television for the entire month. I know TV serves many social purposes and helps some people relax, but turning it off for an extended time can be a way to reconnect with God, enjoy quality time with the children, or just eliminate the noise.

Each year, I look forward to the opportunities of Ramadan: getting in touch with my spirit and feeling at peace.

Television can bring us to tears, make us laugh, even inspire hate. Such a powerful medium must have some effect on spirituality. Without television, I anticipate being able to focus more on my spiritual self, creating a sacred retreat to awaken my heart with consciousness of God and all creation.

Fasting, I believe, not only strengthens willpower but improves eating habits, providing a sense of health and happiness.

I know the practice may be unpopular in a culture of instant gratification, a food channel and supersizing meals. You would think refusing food and drink all day would make one grumpy and irritable, but after a week of fasting I feel renewed, healthier and full of extra energy. At night, I fall asleep right away and wake recharged and alert.

Thinking about the effects on my body and mind, I recognize how much Ramadan has benefited me over the years, how much it has enhanced my self-discipline and faith. Knowing that fasting has always been a part of the Abrahamic traditions reassures me I have much in common with people of other faiths. As I practice prayer, reflection and am God conscious this month, I hope to experience the true spirit of Ramadan, the Muslim month of forgiveness.

Aziz Junejo is host of "Focus on Islam," a weekly cable-television show, and a frequent speaker on Islam. Readers may send feedback to faithcolumns@seattletimes.com