Ramadan is rapidly approaching, and we are all looking forward to it! It’s a month where we promote kindness and generosity throughout our communities to aid those in need and teach ourselves to control our impulses. It’s a month that illustrates what the entire year should be like because being nice and doing good deeds should become our norm and something we aim for. However, because we live in a society where words travel quicker than anything else, there is a lot of false information surrounding this month that is constantly being spread. That’s why we will talk about five myths that are completely false, yet people still believe in them!
Brushing Your Teeth Could Break The Fast
Brushing your teeth would break your fast, this is a complete lie! It’s a necessary hygienic habit to practice every day, and as long as you spit out the toothpaste afterward, it won’t break your fast.
You Must Fast, No Matter What
This is a common misunderstanding because many patients with chronic diseases are required to take their medications at specified times, and fasting is not an option for them at that time. There’s nothing wrong with that as long as you have a good cause and your meds are critical to your health.
It Is Just About Food And Drink
Ramadan is about more than just avoiding drinking or eating first thing in the morning; it’s also about controlling one’s urges and being kind to others. Cursing and causing trouble are things we should avoid not just during Ramadan, but all year long!
It’s Rude FOr Non-Muslims To Eat In Front Of People Who Fast
This is false because, while being considerate is an important human trait, people of other religions are not obligated to not eat in front of Muslims. Again, this is a month about controlling one’s impulses, so if you see food being consumed in front of you, you should refrain from eating it and you should learn better to control your urges.
Fasting Is A Great Way To Lose Weight
While this is true, it is not a solid rule, as some individuals have a large meal at Iftar and then another large meal at Sohour. This is detrimental to your health because you’re basically cramming three meals into two large meals in a short period of time.
Ramadan is a month that should teach us not only how to draw closer to God, but also how to manage our desires and become better people in general!