Friday 20 / February / 2026
Muscat– The holy month of Ramadan represents a renewed spiritual station in which fasting transcends ritual practice and becomes a transformative journey—reshaping a person’s relationship with the Almighty, with oneself, and with society.
Speaking to the Oman News Agency, Ghanem bin Salem Al-Mashikhi, Head of the Zakat Committee in the Wilayat of Taqah, said Ramadan shifts fasting from merely abstaining from food and drink to what he described as the “fasting of the heart.” He emphasized that righteousness (taqwa) is the true fruit of fasting, refining behavior, disciplining the self, and strengthening moral values.
He noted that hunger serves as a means of self-discipline and reflection, while dedicating time to the Holy Qur’an restores family bonds and transforms the iftar table into a place of forgiveness, tolerance, and compassion. Ramadan, he added, is a practical school for strengthening social cohesion, where empathy translates into discreet charity and acts of kindness.
Muslim bin Ali Al-Masahli, Imam and preacher at the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, highlighted that fasting purifies the soul and elevates moral conduct. He stressed that Islam calls for mercy, generosity, and balance, urging Muslims to organize their time during Ramadan in a way that harmonizes worship, work, and family responsibilities.
Yahya bin Masoud Al-Rashidi, religious preacher at the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, underscored the importance of investing in youth during Ramadan. He described the month as a golden opportunity to channel young people’s energies into volunteerism, mosque service, charitable initiatives, and community outreach—cultivating responsibility, belonging, and altruism.
He emphasized that volunteering in Ramadan is not merely a seasonal activity but a lasting value system that strengthens society and nurtures future leaders.
Dr. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Lawati, a researcher in Qur’anic affairs, explained that Ramadan is fundamentally the “Month of the Qur’an,” referencing the verse that describes it as guidance for mankind. He stressed that meaningful engagement with the Qur’an—through understanding, contemplation, and practical application—is essential to achieving Ramadan’s objectives.
He added that faith must be reflected in good deeds and ethical conduct, noting that unity, compassion, and solidarity are core Qur’anic values. The crowded mosques during Ramadan, he said, should embody not only physical closeness but also heartfelt connection and social harmony.
Speakers concluded that Ramadan is an annual opportunity to realign priorities, strengthen individual character, and build a cohesive society rooted in faith, moderation, compassion, and shared responsibility.
