Fasting, Faith, and Community: Exploring the Significance of Ramadan

The ninth month in the Islamic calendar is known by its Arabic name, Ramadan. It is one of the most significant months for Muslims and is distinguished by a fasting time, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The other pillars of Islam are the Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), and the undertaking of the Holy pilgrimage to Makkah. Muslims consider all these pillars to be mandatory deeds commanded by God. In Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking anything between sunrise and sunset. Because Ramadan was the month in which the Holy Qur'an was first disclosed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Muslims consider it holy. Fasting is one of many acts of piety that Muslims undertake during Ramadan. It lasts 29 to 30 days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next. The pre-dawn meal is called Suhur, and the nightly feast that breaks the fast is called Iftar. The spiritual rewards of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Accordingly, during fasting hours, Muslims refrain from food and drink, tobacco products, and sinful behaviour, devoting themselves to Salat (prayer) and study of the Quran. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a festival known as Eid-ul-Fitr! If you'd like to be considerate of your Muslim peers during this time, here are some ways to do that!

• Send well wishes! Here are some standard greetings you can use:

  • Ramadan Mubarak!

  • Ramadan Kareem!

  • Happy Ramadan!

• Be considerate when scheduling events or group hangouts. Maybe don't plan to go to the movies to catch the 7:30 PM show because it coincides with the time of Iftar or the fast-breaking.

• Don't feel guilty about eating or drinking in front of your Muslim peers!

  • While you may think you're being considerate, sometimes it can create unnecessary awkwardness. Ramadan is more than just giving up food and drink; it is about praying and connecting with God.

• Join the Ramadan spirit of giving charity! Everyone is on their own journey with spirituality, so reserve your judgment. Not all Muslims will fast for several reasons, and some may become more connected with their faith during this time. Try not to judge why someone is or is not fasting.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions!

  • Don't be embarrassed by your lack of knowledge; most Muslims welcome questions from friends and peers. Fasting is an individual experience; to ensure you support your friends, it is best to ask them individually how to be supportive and inclusive.

Ramadan Kareem to all those celebrating!!