What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth calendar in the Islamic month, a beautiful month which brings together millions of Muslims to observe fasting. It is considered one of the most spiritual times of the year and signifies the time during which the Qur’an was revealed.

To wish Muslim friends a happy Ramadan, you can say “Ramadan Mubarak” to wish them a blessed one. Ramadan is often used as a time for many Muslims to fully develop a kind regard for others, especially those who are less fortunate.

Many Muslims will fast throughout the day to allow for mindfulness, empathy, and introspection. The fast is broken at the end of the day with prayer and a festive meal called an Iftar, often enjoyed with visiting family and friends.

During Ramadan, many Muslims go to the mosque and spend several hours praying. In addition to the five daily prayers that are part of the core of Islam, Muslims recite a special prayer called the Tarawih prayer (night prayer).

When Ramadan ends, Eid al-Fitr – or simply Eid – begins. When Eid begins (this year is expected on 20 or 21 April), it tends to last from one to three days, depending on country, culture, and tradition, beginning with a prayer session of special significance.

After Eid prayer the day generally consists of families coming together to share food and merriment. It is also a time for forgiveness, to seek it and to grant it.

How to support those observing Ramadan..

Supporting Muslims observing Ramadan goes beyond thinking about what to say to someone fasting for Ramadan.

It’s about showing an understanding and considering how you can support them during this time but remember that different people will be celebrating Ramadan in various ways — understanding this is also an important part of showing your support to those observing their fast during this time.

Here are some simple things you could do to support your friends could include:

Be considerate when making plans..

Arrange to meet up earlier in the day when they may still have energy from their dawn meal. Perhaps you could go for a walk, rather than meet for lunch?

Being considerate of an adjusted timetable shows support and respect and can be a simple - yet appreciated - gesture.

Check in on your Muslim friends…

Checking in on your Muslim friends is always a great idea! Feel free to ask them how they are doing. Doing so will help your Muslim friends feel loved, supported, and seen.

Don’t ask why someone isn’t fasting…

There are many reasons - including medical - why someone may choose not to fast, and these reasons may be very personal. Those who are not able to fast may still choose to take part in other ways of worship.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions…

Although people observing Ramadan might not appreciate answering the same questions over and over again – this shouldn’t deter you from asking any questions at all.

In our multi-cultural, multi-ethnic society, learning about each other’s beliefs by asking respectful and thoughtful questions can be a great way to bridge gaps between people and communities.

So, go ahead. Ask how you can best help your friends to celebrate and practise their religion. You’ll probably learn a lot too in the process.

Our various beliefs, heritages, and traditions are what make our communities diverse and unique. And learning about different cultures and religions is an excellent way to bridge gaps and develop new or stronger connections with those around us.

From our house to yours — Ramadan Kareem!