Saudi Arabia Bans Iftar in Mosques

Ministry of Islamic Affairs Notice :
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Islamic Affairs has released an important instruction for imams, muezzins, and worshippers in the second week of March. Particularly in light of Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's recent ruling about iftar arrangements inside mosques, this edict highlights the delicate balance between religious customs and the value of cleanliness.
The Muslim community observes Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, as a holy time. Ramadan is a time for community, introspection, and serenity. It requires fasting from sunrise until sunset. Suhoor, a predawn meal, starts the day, and iftar, when the fast is customarily broken with water and dates, is its conclusion. Families come together to share delectable iftar platters and strengthen their bonds.
In Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon sighting marks the beginning and conclusion of Ramadan. Not only does this celestial event signal the start of the month, but it also determines how long it will last—either 29 or 30 days. Ramadan is anticipated to begin on March 11 and end on April 9 this year.
It is important to understand how long Ramadan lasts since it establishes the mood for the entire month. A celestial event that is crucial in forming the liturgical calendar is the sighting of the moon. The Muslim community gets ready for a month of introspection and devotion under the influence of the moon.
Recently, it was announced that Prince Mohammed Bin Salman forbade the holding of iftar at mosques. This decision highlights the significance of cleanliness during the holy month and is in keeping with the alert issued by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The directive, which was released on February 21, provides imams and muezzins with detailed instructions on how to arrange iftar and make financial contributions.
Mosque courtyards should have a dedicated space for iftar arrangements to maintain cleanliness requirements. It is expected that this area be kept as clean as possible, and those who break their fast are asked to clear the area as soon as they finish. The notification also forbids filming imams and congregants during namaz and limits the use of cell phones inside mosques.
Maintaining cleanliness throughout Ramadan is not only advised, but it is a requirement that devout followers are urged to adhere to strictly. A clean and spiritual atmosphere is produced by promptly cleaning after iftar and enforcing rules against using cell phones and taking videos.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs' regulations highlight the importance of cleanliness throughout Ramadan, as Saudi Arabia actively seeks to reconcile religious customs with contemporary hygienic standards. These precautions are meant to protect the worshippers' health and well-being while also fostering an environment of spiritual purity.
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