Lights of Spiritual Growth: Ramadan Lanterns

B. Simpson, Ramadan lanterns from below, Road 9, Saadi, Cairo, Egypt. Wikimedia Commons

We are right in the middle of Ramadan. One of the best ways to learn what Ramadan is about is to look at the symbolic lanterns put out during this time. Before we dive into learning more about the lanterns, it is important to know why Ramadan is so central to Muslim culture.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. According to Islam, the archangel Jibril (Gabriel) revealed the first verses of the Quran (Islam's holy book) to the Prophet Muhammad during this month.

Ramadan is a sacred month for spiritual growth. During this month, Muslims, fast to show respect to  people who do not have food, water, and a roof over their heads. During Ramadan, people need to practice self control and become more mindful of God and his blessings. Since it is the month of appreciation, the concept of giving is also significant. Muslims usually try to engage in works of charity as much as possible to raise more awareness and to give to people who do not have the same opportunities as they do.

Enlightenment and Personal Growth

One of Ramadan’s most beautiful and symbolic objects are the Ramadan lanterns, also known as “fanous” in Arabic. They hold deep cultural and artistic significance. One of the most significant meanings of the Ramadan lanterns are enlightenment and growth. The usually multi-coloured lanterns are put in houses during Ramadan to encourage spiritual enlightenment. The lanterns shine during this time to remind people to not give up, seek wisdom and be a part of a community during the holy month of self-improvement.

The Light of Optimism

As Ramadan encourages Muslims to fast, give charity, and pray, lanterns are there to show and remind people that there is light at the end of the dark road. Lanterns are put out to symbolize hope and the good that will come out of fasting and giving to people in need. Fasting can be difficult at first. Muslims can then turn to the lights to remind themselves that while their body is running low on food and water, they are spiritually getting stronger. The Ramadan lights are a sign of hope and perseverance as well as a symbol of goodness and enlightenment. 

Protection and Blessings

These beautiful lights are also believed to keep away bad spirits. People hang them in their house or their workplaces so that only goodness and luck will come their way. While these lights are mostly hung up during the holy month, it is not unusual for Muslims to keep them hanging, as a blessing and to remind them of the month of personal enlightenment and perseverance. 

 The Ramadan lights not only are aesthetically pleasing. They are also a symbol of self-improvement and spiritual excellence. Ramadan is the month of unity, faith, wisdom and perseverance. If you happen to see a lantern during this holy month, feel free to take a moment to reflect upon yourself and what you are grateful for.