Ramadan, an Islamic holiday, is an introspective time for purgation and prayer through fasting, faithful intentions, and Quranic readings. In Islamic tradition, Ramadan symbolizes the time when God revealed the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. In accordance with sawm, one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting and abstinence from immoral behaviors during Ramadan aid in practicing self-discipline and restraint. The Ramadan fast is concluded by Eid al-Fitr, an elaborate celebration with family gatherings, special foods and desserts, and unique combinations of celebratory events. If you’re looking for nonfiction novels to educate yourself on this memorable holiday, here are six recommendations on Ramadan, Islam, and religion for year-round learning!
Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices by Aisha Saeed and S. K. Ali
In this stunning anthology, thoughtful reflections on the Eid celebrations are detailed in engaging stories, from experiencing the vibrant array of food, dressing up for Eid prayers, gift-giving at parties, spending time with family, or attending carnivals. Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices shares diverse stories by diverse authors who represent Shia Muslims, West Africa, and those who have converted are all united by the joy and emotion Eid fosters within them.
The Ramadan Cookbook: 80 Delicious Recipes Perfect for Ramadan, Eid, and Celebrating Throughout the Year by Anisa Karolia
Author Anisa Karolia shares timeless, delicious, and hassle-free meals to share with family and friends during Suhoor, Iftar, and throughout the year. Comfort meals, like Masala Roast Chicken, flatbreads, chutneys, classic sweets, and culinary fusions, are paired with beautiful photographs in The Ramadan Cookbook and are guaranteed to provide hearty meals for Ramadan and life!
Fasting for Ramadan: Notes from a Spiritual Practice by Kazim Ali
In this poignant memoir, poet Kazim Ali shares his journey to re-embracing Ramadan and its cycles of daytime abstinence and daily meditations. Finding his way back to his family’s cultural traditions concerning the holiday, Ali’s transcendent, poetic reflections, combined with his inquisitive perspective, beautifully illustrates his rediscovery of religion, making Fasting for Ramadan: Notes from a Spiritual Practice a must-read book!
Ramadan Rhapsody: A Daily Celebration by Linda iLham Barto
Ramadan Rhapsody: A Daily Celebration by Linda iLham Barto curates a lovely assemblage of poems, prayers, and Quranic passages for each day of Ramadan. For every day of Ramadan, readers engage with a passage from the Quran and teachings from the Prophet, followed by a poem and prayer that serves as inspiration and an avenue of devotion. This book enhances one’s knowledge of religion and the Ramadan experience, cultivating awareness, joy, and happiness within.
Secrets of Divine Love: A Spiritual Journey into the Heart of Islam by A. Helwa
A more general illustration of theology, Secrets of Divine Love takes readers on a ruminative journey in discovering and learning about spirituality. Ancient Islamic poetry and prophetic tales, combined with scientific evidence, guided meditations, and reflective exercise, will educate readers on human connection with God and work to foster inner peace. If you want to reignite your spirituality or are simply interested in the principles of Islam, this inspiring book will do just that.
A History of God: The 4,000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam by Karen Armstrong
An all-encompassing view of the three monotheistic religions, this theological novel explores the histories of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam and how each unique perspective of God has been shaped and influenced by one another. Starting in Babylon, where Judaism transformed from pagan idol worship into a monotheistic religion, to how all three dominant religions began, to contemporary moldings of the religion socially and politically, Armstrong draws from classic philosophies, medieval mysticism, and Reformation to create a map of these important, intertwined religions.
Read with intention and put these thought-provoking and eye-opening books on your TBR today!
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