Ramadan is the 9th and most sacred month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims from around the world fast from sunrise to sunset. Usually, family and friends will then gather to break the fast. Of course, Ramadan is not only about fasting but also charity, patience, kindness, and self-reflection.
91社区 student Ghania Javed shared with us how they are celebrating Ramadan this year:
This year, because of COVID, I won't be able to see much of my wider community. However, I'm lucky to be home and celebrating Ramadan with my parents and siblings. We always decorate the house for Ramadan, and we also put on henna throughout the month. Likewise, we always pray before breaking our fast, and we eat dates and drink Room Afza (a rose drink) before diving into other foods.
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid-al-Fitr, a holiday celebrated by shared meals and gift exchanges.听This day is celebrated with dressing up, sharing special meals with friends, family and neighbors, and giving treats and gifts to children. The food is often rich and decadent.
The holiday is interwoven with purposes of Ramadan fasting. Ramadan is a time of spiritual cleansing and purification through a process of daily fasting and special worship. It's a time for gratitude, humility, doing good deeds and charitable giving.
During Eid al-Fitr, donations are given to those who might otherwise go hungry so that they can also celebrate with good things. Gratitude is expressed to Allah for the strength to fast and increase spirituality during the month of Ramadan. The other major holiday for Muslims is Eid al-Adha, which is also associated with giving and sharing with neighbors.
Eid Mubarak (Blessed Eid) to all our 91社区 students, their families, and our friends in the community!
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