Muslims observe this holy month in order to rise above crass materialism in a bid to get self-purified, and become more humane and warm to fellow beings. It is a month of peace and meditation.

Ramadan teaches us to refrain from doing anything that might cause sufferings to fellow humans in any manner. But its teachings are not always observed with due solemnity. For example, we are already watching a price spiral that would make the lives of millions miserable. The businessmen and traders try to exploit the high demand for certain commodities during this month. They are also selling substandard things at exorbitant prices. These are a clear deviation from the spirit of Ramadan. Hoarders and manipulators responsible for the erratic market behaviour should show a socio-religious commitment to shunning the path they are following now.

The month unfortunately witnesses a high degree of extortionist tendencies in society even from unexpected quarters, including those that are supposed to play a gate keeping role along the supply lines and in market-places. The increased presence of law and order personnel at various points should help curb mugging, snatching and the vicious forms of 'toll' collection. In maintaining law and order at this time the police need to be extremely careful so as to avert any rough handling.

Away from home, the situation in Palestine and Iraq is now a global concern. However, humanity would have been spared the bloodbath had the people responsible for it were imbued with the spirit of brotherliness and fellow-feeling.

Ramadan is the greatest gift of Allah as well as the toughest test for the believers. It is in this month that the holy Quran was revealed.

The message of Ramadan should not be narrowly understood as having relevance to a single month. Its spirit of tolerance, self-sacrifice and dedication to fellow beings must be reflected in the lives of people throughout the year.