Roots of Ramadan

Where does the word Ramadan come from?

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While the linguistic origin of the word Ramadan may be in dispute, the significance of the holy month's name is hardly in question. Some scholars believe the word Ramadan is derived from the root Al-Ramad, which refers to the rain that falls prior to autumn, thus quenching the thirst of the dried-up earth. Others believe the name is derived from Al-Ramdaa, an Arabic word that alternately means scorching heat and dryness, or the sun-baked sand.

In a religious context, the word Ramadan possibly refers to the hot sensation one feels in the stomach when thirsty. Some believe the word might signify the burning out of sins by good deeds. Others claim it stands for the fact that the soul is more receptive to the admonitions and commandments of God during Ramadan, in the same way that sand and stone are more exposed to the sun's heat during a hot season.

In a more metaphorical sense, Ramadan's power to help a devout believer transform, renew and reform his/her physical and spiritual well-being has been compared to heat's ability to mold and change the nature of matter.