The Honorable Elijah Muhammad gave us instructions to "fast" during the month of December. Technically it is not a fast, because we should all be eating one meal a day anyway. However, during December we abstain from all food, water, and sexual contact from sunrise until sunset. We avoid things such as holiday parties (especially Christmas parties). It is a time to study, reflect, and grow in faith.
Many people compare our December "fast" with Ramadan, but Orthodox Muslim's goals are very different from ours. We fast to get us out of the habit of celebrating Christian holidays, most importantly, the pagan celebration of Jesus' (actually Nimrod's) birthday. In this society, it is hard to escape this season, so controlling our eating helps keep our minds clear and focused.
There are a few things I do every year to prepare for December.
Firstly, I clean up the house. It is always good to have a clean environment when fasting or observing any spiritual practice. While your body purifies itself during the "fast", a messy home becomes much more of an irritant than it would normally be. Doing all of the heavy duty cleaning, and following that up with a disciplined cleaning routine helps restore discipline in the family as far as finishing chores.
Secondly, I prepare whatever land meat is left in the home. We do not eat land animals during December. Take this time to eat any meat that may go bad in the refrigerator or get freezer burned if left in the freezer too long.
Thirdly, I begin drinking a detox tea. Cleaning your body out prior to a fast lessens things such as headaches and other discomfort that may affect you during the first few days of following How to Eat to Live strictly.
Fourthly, I begin drinking at least a glass of water every morning. This is important during December. Get in the habit now so you don't forget later.
Lastly, I make sure I have a supply of whole clove buds. Chewing on these during the day keeps your breath fresh and your mouth moisturized. Don't worry, they are inedible. Just chew on them for a while then dispose of them. It is a great relief when you must speak frequently with no water to refresh your throat and mouth.
I also suggest speaking with young children to educate them on what will be going on in the home. Teach them the culture of the Nation of Islam. they will be much more likely to become good Muslims if they understand it and are introduced to it in fun, age-appropriate ways. Children must still eat two (2) meals a day, but the times may be altered depending on age and maturity, if they would like to participate with the rest of the family. It shouldn't be mandatory until age sixteen (16).
What do you don to prepare?
As-salaam alaikum!
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