By Sania Daniyal
This year, Ramadan will be occurring between April 13 and May 12. Ramadan is a holy month in Islam, observed by fasting from dawn until sundown each day to mark the anniversary of the revelation of the Quran, the Muslim holy book. The fast involves abstaining from food, drinks and a variety of actions and behaviors such as talking about people behind their backs and lying or cursing. Fasting, praying and remembering God are all parts of the month of Ramadan, and it is a chance for Muslims to stay connected with Islam and reconnect with their faith. Anyone who fasts sincerely and correctly for the whole month of Ramadan is promised forgiveness for their prior sins.
“Ramadan for me is a safe place. This month brings me closer to God and makes me feel at ease. The bond between my family gets stronger, and food is cherished. During this month, we have lights all around our houses. There is so much more to say about how each day of Ramadan gets better, and this month is just great,” said eighth grader Ayah Maarouf.
Sources from Sarah Razzaq and Sania Daniyal
Students put up decorations for Ramadan and count the days of the month until Eid; in anticipation for sundown, those who are fasting prepare an Iftaar meal to break their fast.
During the holy month, Muslims rise early to eat suhoor, a pre-dawn meal, and iftar, a meal that completes their fast. Mosques often host large feasts, especially for the poor and needy, and various communities have different traditions such as cooking special meals or eating iftar with extended family. After the pre-dawn meal, mosques also hold nightly prayers known as Tarawih.
Sharing meals and inviting guests over are some of the many traditions inspired by Islamic tenets. However, due to COVID-19, many communities have not been able to hold large gatherings, and mosques have been required to limit the capacity of people within the building, shrinking the celebrations immensely.
“For me, celebrating Ramadan is an incredible experience, and even if there are COVID-19 regulations, this month will still be amazing,” said junior Sydra Daniyal.